Universitas Muhammadiyah Purworejo (UMPWR) – For some students, speaking in front of a large audience is not easy. Nervousness, a lack of confidence, and the fear of making mistakes can often become obstacles when expressing opinions in public. For this reason, public speaking skills need to be introduced and practiced from an early age.
This was the focus of the UMPWR Library Unit (UPT Perpustakaan UMPWR) through a collaboration with the Purworejo Regency Library and Archives Office (DINPUSIP). The two institutions held a Public Speaking Training session for students of SMPN 1 Purworejo on Friday (August 7, 2026).
Held at SMPN 1 Purworejo, the training was attended by 25 students. The activity was designed not only to encourage students to become more confident in speaking, but also to help them build self-confidence, improve their communication skills, and become more accustomed to expressing their ideas in front of others.
The event began with remarks from the Acting Principal of SMPN 1 Purworejo, Prayogi, S.Pd. This was followed by remarks from the Head of the Library Division of the Purworejo Regency Archives and Library Office, Sigit Sudibyo, S.Sos.
The training continued with a presentation by Ismawati Ike Nugraheni, S.S., M.Hum., a lecturer in the English Education Study Program at UMPWR. The materials covered various types of public speaking, common challenges that people may face when speaking in public, as well as tips and techniques for delivering presentations with greater confidence.
The session was not limited to presentations. It was conducted interactively, with the speaker actively involving students throughout the learning process, creating an engaging atmosphere. At the end of the session, students were given the opportunity to put their public speaking skills into practice.
For the school, the training provided a valuable learning experience. Prayogi said that the students who participated were fortunate to have the opportunity to learn a skill that would benefit them in many different situations.
“Among the hundreds of students at SMPN 1 Purworejo, the students in this room are fortunate to have the opportunity to learn public speaking today,” said Prayogi.
Ismawati also emphasized that public speaking is not simply a matter of personality. Students who tend to be quiet or have an introverted personality can also develop strong public speaking skills.
“Having an introverted personality does not prevent someone from mastering public speaking, because public speaking can be practiced,” said Ismawati.
This message was one of the key takeaways from the training. Students do not have to wait until they feel completely confident before they start speaking. Instead, confidence and courage can gradually grow through consistent practice.
Beyond strengthening students’ skills, the activity was also part of a joint effort to develop school libraries and improve the quality of library services. The collaboration between the UMPWR Library Unit and the Purworejo Regency Library and Archives Office is expected to continue through various programs that support literacy while also encouraging students to develop their potential.
For the participants, the training provided a space to try, learn from mistakes, and, most importantly, find the courage to start speaking.
Contributor: UMPWR Library Unit
Editor: UMPWR Media and Communication (AKb/KP)
