Daftarsbmptn.com – Gus Fawait, a young Nahdlatul Ulama figure and education figure in Jember Regency, emphasized that families play a key role in addressing the increasingly complex social problems faced by adolescents in the modern era. He made this statement during an educational dialogue with parents, educators, and community leaders in Jember.
According to Gus Fawait, the increasing social problems faced by adolescents, such as promiscuity, gadget abuse, social media addiction, and declining ethics and social awareness, cannot be resolved through legal or school-based approaches alone. Families, especially parents, must be at the forefront of developing children’s character.
Family as the Foundation of Education
Gus Fawait emphasized that the family is the first and most important environment for children. Children’s moral values, ethics, and personality are formed from an early age through interactions within the family. Therefore, parents need to be actively present in their children’s lives, meeting not only their material needs but also their emotional and spiritual needs.
“School is important, the environment is also influential, but the family is the primary foundation. If the family is strong, children will be better prepared to face social challenges outside,” Gus Fawait said in his remarks.
He also warned that many parents unconsciously hand over their children’s education entirely to schools and technology. However, without proper guidance, technology can actually exacerbate adolescent social problems.
Educational and Dialogic Approach
In addressing adolescent issues, Gus Fawait advocates an educational and dialogic approach, not just punishment. He believes that adolescents need space to be heard, understood, and guided wisely.
“Our children are not to be judged, but to be guided. Parents need to establish open communication so that adolescents feel safe to talk and discuss,” he explained.
This approach is considered effective in preventing adolescents from seeking refuge in the wrong environment. With good communication, the family can become a safe haven for children amidst social pressures and modern developments.
Challenges for Adolescents in the Digital Age
Gus Fawait also highlighted the major challenges facing adolescents in the digital age. Widespread access to information, social media, and instant culture make adolescents vulnerable to being influenced by values that are inconsistent with local culture and morals.
He encouraged parents to embrace technology and instead learn and understand the digital world so they can guide their children wisely. “Parents don’t have to be tech experts, but they must understand so they can guide their children,” he said.
Family, School, and Community Collaboration
In addition to the role of the family, Gus Fawait emphasized the importance of collaboration between parents, schools, religious leaders, and the community. Social problems for adolescents cannot be solved partially but require the cooperation of all parties.
He encouraged family education programs, Islamic parenting, and regular discussion forums involving parents and adolescents. These programs are expected to strengthen family resilience and prevent social problems from emerging early.
Hopes for Jember
Gus Fawait hopes that Jember Regency can become an example of a region that has successfully developed a young generation with character through strengthening the role of the family. With a sustainable educational approach, he is optimistic that social problems for adolescents can be significantly reduced.
“If families are strong, God willing, society will also be strong. From healthy families, a generation will emerge with morals, intelligence, and responsibility,” he concluded.
Gus Fawait’s statement serves as a reminder that solutions to social problems among teenagers do not always have to be expensive and complicated, but can start from the most basic things: a family that cares, is present, and educates with love.