Equipping Students Ahead of Pasola in Gaura, Teacher at SD Inpres Hoba Tete Shapes a New Generation of Malaria-Free Change Agents

MALARIA PERDHAKI – Waikabubak. The Pasola ritual has recently concluded in the Gaura area, Wetana Village, West Sumba. The indigenous community successfully held the ritual on March 13–14, 2026, as an expression of the Marapu belief system to celebrate the harvest season and pray for fertility.

As one of the three main Pasola locations in West Sumba—alongside Lamboya and Wanokaka—this event attracted the attention of both local residents and tourists, domestic and international alike. Behind the festivity, the community also built collective awareness to anticipate the risk of malaria transmission following large gatherings that last for extended periods.

Concrete action came from health advocates who carried out collaborative activities in the school environment. Petrus Ngongu Paila, a Malaria Elimination Champion Teacher at SD Inpres Hoba Tete, took a crucial initiative to equip his students with malaria prevention education just before they joined the crowds attending the traditional ritual.

"I saw the recent Pasola moment as the perfect time to instill health awareness in children. When they meet many people and take part in the crowd, they can also become change agents for their respective families," said Petrus while reflecting on the activity (March 10, 2026).

Through this activity, Petrus instilled healthy habits among students as young change agents. He encouraged the children to gain a deeper understanding of the malaria transmission cycle. Petrus also emphasized several practical steps expected to become part of the students’ and their families’ daily routines.

This initiative strongly supports the Cemara Movement (Prevent and Eliminate Malaria) initiated by the West Sumba District Health Office. The program consistently integrates blood screening in schools, mosquito net distribution, and campaigns promoting clean and healthy living behaviors (PHBS).

The dedication of educators like Petrus Ngongu Paila proves that the Pasola celebration not only leaves a profound cultural impression but also reflects the strong commitment of the community to safeguarding health. This continuous education ensures that ancestral traditions remain preserved while protecting the health of future generations from the threat of malaria.