PPG Lecturers, Staff, and Mentor Teachers of FKIP Bung Hatta University Join Public Speaking and Character Building Training

In an effort to enhance the quality and capability of human resources within the Teacher Professional Education (PPG) Program at the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education (FKIP), Bung Hatta University, the PPG Coordination Team organized a Public Speaking and Character Building Training. The event took place in person at ZHM Premier Padang on Sunday, January 5, 2025, as part of a systematic strategy to prepare future educators who are not only academically competent but also strong in communication and professional character.

The Rector of Bung Hatta University, Prof. Dr. Pasymi, S.T., M.T., officially opened the event by emphasizing the importance of adaptive communication in the digital era.

“To engage with today’s generation, we need innovative communication breakthroughs to make learning more meaningful,”
he remarked. His statement underscored the crucial role of soft skills as a key component in higher education—particularly for future teachers who will serve as transformative agents in the classroom.

Meanwhile, Dean of FKIP and PPG Coordinator, Dr. Yetty Morelent, M.Hum., in her report highlighted that the training was designed to respond to the urgent need for equipping PPG students with effective and confident public speaking skills grounded in integrity and leadership values. She added that this initiative not only aims to strengthen academic services but also to motivate students to build a strong foundation of character during their professional education journey.

The training, attended by lecturers, mentor teachers (guru pamong), and PPG support staff, featured interactive sessions covering voice management, body language, speech structure, and character development based on core educational values such as empathy, responsibility, and courage. Using simulation and role-play methods, participants had the opportunity to apply their newly acquired competencies in practical contexts.

This activity serves not merely as a professional development session but also as the beginning of a sustainable learning culture within the PPG FKIP environment. With improved communication and personal character skills, PPG students are expected to become educators who can not only deliver lessons effectively but also inspire, motivate, and serve as role models for their future students.