ENGLISH FOR EMPOWERMENT: PROGRAM PENGUATAN DIRI BAGI ANAK DI LEMBAGA PEMBINAAN KHUSUS ANAK (LPKA) MELALUI PEMBELAJARAN BAHASA INGGRIS DAN AKTIVITAS KREATIF

Abstract

Children residing in the Juvenile Correctional Facility (LPKA) generally experience school dropout, low literacy levels, and limited access to educational opportunities that promote empowerment. These conditions negatively affect their academic abilities, learning motivation, and self-confidence. This community service program was implemented to enhance basic English proficiency while simultaneously fostering creative expression through an integrative learning model that combines experiential language activities with creativity-based tasks. The results of the pre-test and post-test indicate substantial improvement: vocabulary mastery increased by 63%, the ability to construct simple sentences improved by 61%, and the use of functional expressions rose by 65%. Observations and interviews further revealed positive changes in learning attitudes, motivation, and students’ willingness to participate actively. Creative skills also improved significantly, with 80% of participants able to produce English mini posters, 75% successfully developing story cards with clear narrative sequences, 60% capable of presenting their work orally, and 80% demonstrating positive expressions and enthusiasm throughout the activities. These findings suggest that creativity-based language learning not only enhances linguistic competence but also strengthens emotional resilience and self-expression. Overall, the program serves as an effective empowerment strategy for juvenile residents, supporting their academic, psychological, and social development.