Improving English Communication Skills Through Public Speaking for Students of SMK Maskumambang 1 Dukun - Gresik

Globalization increase means demands that the education sector become more flexible and in tune with current developments. At SMK Maskumambang 1 Dukun – Gresik, efforts are consistently made to adapt to these changes to produce graduates who are not only competent but also capable of competing on an international level. One key aspect of this is English language proficiency, which is increasingly essential in our interconnected world. English skills, particularly when combined with effective communication abilities such as public speaking, provide students with a significant advantage in the global field. However, the school faces significant challenges in achieving this goal, primarily due to the limited time allocated for English classes. In addition to this, the school offers only a few extracurricular activities that support English language development. This is a considerable drawback, considering that English is crucial for international communication. Another challenge is the limited emphasis on public speaking within the curriculum, which has resulted in lower self-confidence among students when they need to speak in public. To overcome these issues, the school has recognized the need for specialized training aimed at enhancing English communication skills through public speaking exercises. This initiative focuses on raising awareness of the importance of English as a tool for future preparedness. The training sessions were held in the school's hall, with 50 participants attending. The program was divided into three stages: a survey to assess needs, lectures to provide fundamental knowledge, and hands-on mentoring to practice public speaking. The students demonstrated keen interest and engagement throughout the activities, and it is hoped that this program will significantly benefit the broader community, particularly the students at SMK Maskumambang 1 Dukun – Gresik.