Edukasi Pencegahan Pernikahan Dini melalui Penguatan Kesadaran Pendidikan pada Remaja di SMAN 01 Muara Gembong

Abstract

Early marriage remains a social issue that can affect adolescents’ educational continuity, psychosocial readiness, and future opportunities. Limited awareness of the long-term value of higher education and insufficient understanding of the risks of early marriage may contribute to adolescents’ acceptance of marriage at a young age. This community service activity aimed to strengthen adolescents’ awareness of education and provide counseling on the risks of early marriage. The activity was conducted using a descriptive qualitative approach through a field-based community service program at SMAN 01 Muara Gembong. Data were collected through participatory observation and activity documentation. The program consisted of two seminar sessions under the theme “Building an Educated Generation Without Early Marriage,” involving speakers from academic and community institutions. The first session emphasized the importance of formal and nonformal education, opportunities for higher education, and scholarship information. The second session introduced the risks of early marriage and the School-Age Adolescent Guidance Program (Bimbingan Remaja Usia Sekolah/BRUS) as a preventive educational approach. Observations during the activity indicated positive student engagement, as reflected in active participation during discussions, interest in higher education opportunities, and involvement in reflective activities related to future planning. These findings suggest that educational counseling can serve as an initial strategy to encourage adolescents to reconsider early marriage and recognize the importance of continuing education. Continuous education involving schools, families, and community institutions is needed to strengthen early marriage prevention efforts.