Empowering Oral Literacy through Public Speaking Training for Students of SMPN Batu Payung, Balukhering Village

Abstract

Oral communication skills are important competencies that students need to support their learning process and social life. However, initial observations at SMPN Batu Payung, Balukhering Village, East Flores Regency, showed that some students were still shy, nervous, and lacked confidence when speaking in public. They also had limited understanding of basic public speaking techniques, including articulation, intonation, voice volume, eye contact, and body language. This activity aimed to empower students' oral literacy through public speaking training while developing their verbal and nonverbal communication competencies. The activity was conducted on June 9, 2026, involving 34 students of SMPN Batu Payung. A participatory approach was applied through four main stages: preparation, observation and coordination, implementation, and monitoring and evaluation. Data were collected through observation, direct interaction, and documentation. The training consisted of material presentation, dialogue and discussion, and public speaking practices, including self-introduction, sharing personal experiences or hobbies, and expressing opinions. The results showed that the participants demonstrated good enthusiasm and active participation throughout the activity. Students began to understand the importance of managing verbal and nonverbal messages and demonstrated greater willingness to speak and express their ideas in front of an audience. The training provided practical communication experiences that supported the development of students' oral literacy, confidence, and communication skills. Similar activities need to be conducted continuously to further develop students' public speaking skills.