UMS Supports Special School Teachers to Improve Down Syndrome Learning Methods

The Student Creativity Program – Community Service (PKM-PM) team from Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta (UMS) successfully introduced an innovative learning method for children with Down syndrome at SLB D1 Surakarta. The project received funding directly from the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (Kemendiktisaintek) and represented a collaboration between the PKM-PM Maumere Terasik Team and the teachers of SLB D1 Surakarta.

The team leader, Nabila Yusril Ihza Sallu Tambing, explained that the program began with field mentoring conducted by the PKM-PM team. This was followed by a presentation on children with Down syndrome and an explanation of two educational books, “Emotion Tale” and “Anakku Hebat” (My Amazing Child), delivered by Dwi Rosella Komalasari, Ftr., M.Fis., Sp.Vest., Ph.D., the main speaker and supervising lecturer of the PKM-PM team.

“After dancing together in the schoolyard, at 9 a.m. we held a Training of Trainers (TOT) session in the SLB D1 Surakarta Hall on the second floor,” Nabila explained on Tuesday (14/10/2025)

She added that the PKM-PM program was designed around three main focuses: Anakku Hebat (My Amazing Child), Anakku Lincah (My Active Child), and Menyala Anakku (My Shining Child). According to Dewi, one of the team members, preliminary results showed significant improvement among the students, especially in their confidence and ability to interact socially with peers.

The PKM-PM Maumere Terasik Team together with children with Down syndrome at SLB D1 Surakarta after completing their community service activity.

“So far, the children have shown remarkable progress. One clear sign is the increase in each child’s self-confidence, which can be seen from their improved ability to socialize with their schoolmates,” Dewi explained.

Nabila added that through this initiative, children with Down syndrome at SLB D1 Surakarta are expected to gain greater self-confidence and reduce the risk of falls during daily activities. She also expressed hope for continuous public support to ensure the program runs effectively and sustainably, emphasizing that collaboration among various stakeholders is essential to create a supportive environment.

“With support from all sides, we believe this program can help build a school atmosphere that is comfortable, safe, peaceful, and joyful,” she concluded.

Wiwik Haryanti, S.Pd., Principal of SLB D1 Surakarta, expressed full support for the initiative. “Programs like this are very much aligned with the learning needs of our students,” she said, hoping the initiative would foster a more engaging and positive learning environment for all learners

Writer: Aisyah Izzatuddini Rahma

Editor: Fika Annisa Sholihah

Translator: Farizal Luqman Majid