Bekasi – Being a refugee does not eliminate the enthusiasm of the Afghan youth to continue learning. 50 teenage refugees from Hope Learning Center (HLC) and Refugee Learning Center (RLC) visited LSPR Transpark Bekasi Campus on Friday (12/7/2019). This visit was welcomed by LSPR by holding a short class to share knowledge about TV & Cinematography, Multimedia Design, Acting & Dancing, Public Speaking, and Singing & Music Production.

Afghan refugees in LSPR-Transpark classes

The arrival of the refugees was warmly welcomed by LSPR Founder & Director Prita Kemal Gani, MBA, MCIPR, APR, and the Spouse of US Ambassador to the Republic of Indonesia, Mei Chou Donovan, accompanied by Management, Staff and LSPR Lecturers. In her opening speech at the Amani Palladium Theater, Prita stated that the spirit of the refugees had touched her heart to help them not lose their right to education. The same thing was also conveyed by Mei Chou, while at the same time giving appreciation for the warmth provided by LSPR in welcoming the enthusiasm of learning of these refugees.

Mr. Taufan Teguh Akbari, M. Si handed plaque of appreciation to Mr. Abdullah

Furthermore, Abdullah from RLC and Sultani from HLC also told the background of how the organization was formed. Abdullah said at first RLC had only 25 members learning in a small and simple room. “At present, there are more than 300 RLC members” he said. He added that this organization developed because of the support and enthusiasm of the teachers who also had experience as a refugee.

Performance from LSPR Teatro enlivens Amani Palladium Theatre LSPR-Transpark for LSPR Short Course

At the opening ceremony a performance from LSPR Teatro was also presented to entertain refugees before entering their short classes. The giving of plaque of appreciation to the HLC and RLC representatives, and photo session closed the opening ceremony which was followed by conducting a short class.

Short class for TV and cinematography held by Ms. Candy Hernandez

The refugees were divided into 5 groups to join each class which was opened in parallel. TV & Cinematography classes are guided by Ms. Candy Hernandez, Multimedia Design by Mr. Fadlin Nur Ichwan, and Acting & Dancing by Mr. Michael Y. Cobis. Meanwhile, the Public Speaking class was guided by Ms. Sri Ulya Suskarwati, and the Singing & Music Production class by Mr. Endang and Mr. Ridho. Their enthusiasm for learning can be seen from their diligence in following the guides in each class. After more than 5 hours of carrying out short classes, the refugees finally had to leave and return to their homes in Cisarua, West Java. (Irfan)