Design of National Defense Education and Training to Achieve Conformity among Street Children in Makassar City

Abstract

Education shapes the character and potential of individuals from family to school. However, street children are often marginalized. National defense education and training play a crucial role in instilling national values, discipline, and tolerance, thus encouraging inclusive social conformity and shaping responsible citizens. The purpose of this study was to determine the design of National Defense Education and Training in Achieving Conformity in Makassar City Society. This study used a qualitative descriptive study with the tools of interview guidelines, observations, and focus group discussion (FGD) notes/document reviews. The data analysis techniques used were data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The results showed that the design of national defense education and training in realizing conformity in street children needs to be based on a participatory, contextual, and applicable approach. Although they have not yet been exposed to formal training, national defense values such as caring, solidarity, tolerance, and obedience to rules have been reflected in their lives. Therefore, training that touches on everyday reality is believed to be able to shape voluntary and sustainable social conformity. The National Defense education and training program fosters social conformity through the active participation of the community, particularly street children, in maintaining security, fostering solidarity, respecting differences, and obeying regulations. The participatory and contextual approach strengthens collective awareness of national values in everyday life.