EMPOWERING STUDENTS IN DISASTER RISK REDUCTION THROUGH PARTICIPATORY APPROACH

Abstract

This paper aims at discussing the results of a study in SMA Muhammadiyah 1 Klaten in 2015. The study investigated how participatory approach can empower students in disaster risk reduction (DRR). This is beneficial in the fulfillment of child rights in terms of protection and participation in building a save school. The study covers the procedures, materials, and the effect of participatory approach on students participation in DRR. The research was qualitative research. The participants were 40 students of students organization board of SMA Muhammadiyah I Klaten and two tutors from Muhammadiyah University of Surakarta. The data were collected through observation and interview and analyzed using inductive technique. The result shows that the procedures of DRR training using participatory approach consist of: 1) Preparation: preparing students for DRR, socializing DRR program, setting the negotiated scheduled, 2) Training: Guided and Independent training, 3) Material selection: involving students in determining the materials of the training. 4)Students’ activities after the training program: Spreading the knowledge to other students/community, training other fellow students and The students board (OSIS)has established a division of DRR called “TIM SIAGA BENCANA” which consists of some selected students. The students determine the mechanism of recruitment by themselves. The students feel that DRR training is important to help them cope with disaster and participatory approach ,make the material easy to understand and practice . The approach has made students participate in DRR with sixth level of participation. Therefore, the approach has empowered the students to highly participate in spreading the knowledge and the awareness of DRR to other students and the community.