EDUKASI PERNIKAHAN DINI DI SMP 8 KOTA KOMBA

Abstrak

Early marriage is a social and public health issue that can affect adolescents’ educational continuity, health, future opportunities, and family life. This community service activity was conducted as one of the core activities of the Community Service Program (KKN) with the theme “Prevention and Management of Stunting in East Manggarai Regency.” The activity took place on August 5, 2026, at SMP 8 Kota Komba, Paan Leleng Village, East Manggarai Regency, and involved students from grades VII, VIII, and IX. The activity aimed to strengthen students’ understanding of early marriage, including its meaning, contributing factors, impacts on education and health, its relevance to stunting prevention, and practical preventive efforts that adolescents can undertake. The activity used lecture and discussion methods. The material was delivered in an age-appropriate and participatory manner, followed by a question-and-answer session that allowed students to clarify issues related to early marriage and adolescent health. The implementation showed that students were attentive and enthusiastic throughout the activity and actively asked questions during the discussion. These responses indicate that school-based education can provide a useful space for adolescents to obtain accurate information and discuss issues that may affect their future. The activity also positioned early-marriage prevention as part of a broader life-course approach to stunting prevention, particularly through the preparation of healthy adolescents and the prevention of pregnancies that occur too early. Continued collaboration among schools, families, health workers, local government, and community organizations is needed so that education can be sustained beyond a single activity.