Photos: Muhammad Abdillah Mulki and team

Yogyakarta, 31 August 2026 — As part of their community service program, four students from the English Literature Study Program, Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta (UNY) brought English language learning and storytelling to children at TK ABA Sumberadi through an engaging bilingual storytelling activity. The program was led by Muhammad Abdillah Mulki as the person in charge, together with Muhamad Youngky Abimanyu, Kurnia Persada Meicel, and Zulfikar Bustomi Shidiq Kuntoro. The activity involved 19 children from TK ABA Sumberadi and featured the story I Lie, which follows a character named Ollie who has a habit of lying. 

The program was designed to provide children with an enjoyable learning experience while introducing them to English in a relaxed and engaging environment. Through the use of an English-language story, the students created an opportunity for young learners to encounter English without the experience becoming monotonous. The story I Lie also introduced a simple moral message through Ollie's character, allowing the children to engage with the theme of honesty through storytelling and interaction.

Bringing English and Literature into the Community

Before the activity, the students carefully prepared the story by studying its plot and becoming familiar with Ollie as the main character. They adapted the English used in the story to the children's level and incorporated Indonesian as supporting language to ensure that the children could follow the narrative. To make the storytelling more engaging, the students also used facial expressions, varied vocal intonation, and expressive storytelling techniques to maintain the children's attention.

During the session, three students worked together to deliver the story, while the fourth student documented the activity. The story was presented using both English and Indonesian in a simple and accessible manner. The 19 children responded positively, listening attentively and participating in a cheerful atmosphere throughout the session.

The activity provided benefits not only for the children but also for the participating English Literature students. Through the program, the students gained practical experience in communicating stories to young learners and building positive interactions with participants. In this way, their academic knowledge and communication skills were put into practice beyond the university classroom.

English Literature Students Contributing to Quality Education

The I Lie storytelling program also supports Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education, particularly its emphasis on creating meaningful, enjoyable, and interactive learning experiences. By introducing English through bilingual storytelling, the students provided the children with an alternative and engaging way to encounter language and literature.

More broadly, the activity demonstrates how English Literature students can bring their knowledge and skills beyond the classroom and contribute directly to the community. Through literature, language, storytelling, and interpersonal communication, Muhammad Abdillah Mulki and his fellow students transformed their academic learning into a practical educational experience for young learners at TK ABA Sumberadi.

Their initiative reflects the English Literature Study Program's commitment to developing students who are not only academically capable but also able to apply their knowledge meaningfully in society. (Brigitta)