Optimalisasi Pengenalan Praktek Jiwa Leadership Pada Tingkat SMP

Abstract

Junior high schools (SMP) play a crucial role in shaping the character and leadership of the younger generation. However, many schools have not systematically introduced effective leadership practices to junior high school students, thus under-exploiting their leadership potential. This community service project aims to assist a junior high school in Indonesia in designing and implementing a structural and participatory leadership development program, targeting increased student awareness, participation, and leadership practice. The method used was a participatory approach: workshops, the formation of mentor-mentee groups, leadership simulations, and six months of implementation support. The results showed that the implementation of managerial strategies encompassing planning, organizing, implementing, monitoring, and evaluating within the school context increased students' leadership awareness scores by 30% compared to pre-program levels. These findings indicate that introducing leadership practices to junior high school students is more effective when implemented through a clear program structure, real-world practice opportunities, mentor support, and feedback mechanisms. Practical implications: schools need to build internal systems that support leadership development, beyond just one-off extracurricular activities. Keywords: public speaking skills, students, self-confidence, activity management, extracurricular activities.