Healing Through Faith: A Teenager’s Journey to Recovery After Abuse
In Grobogan, a young teenager is finding solace and strength at an Islamic boarding school after enduring a traumatic experience. The victim, a junior high school student, was allegedly molested by his teacher, identified only as ST (35). Now, under the care of the boarding school, the boy is slowly rebuilding his life, supported by a community dedicated to his healing.
Ahmad Gufron, the caretaker of the boarding school, shared that the teenager arrived in a withdrawn state, reluctant to interact with others. However,over time,he has begun to open up and participate in daily activities. “Thank God, now his progress is good. He’s taking part in learning activities with his friends, reading the Koran, and even sharing his thoughts. At first, he was quite and closed off,” ahmad explained during a recent conversation at his residence on Friday, January 10, 2025.
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The teenager has been at the boarding school for three months, following a suggestion from the village head and his family’s request. The goal is to provide psychological therapy and ensure his emotional well-being. “We’re re-educating him and helping him regain trust.It’s a collaborative effort with parents and community leaders,” Ahmad added.
The victim, who comes from a broken home, had been living with his grandparents and struggled with feelings of isolation. In the 8th grade, he confided in his teacher, ST, who initially offered support and even bought him gifts. Over time, though, the relationship took a dark turn. “At first, I was close to ST because I needed someone to talk to.But as time went on, I felt pressured and couldn’t refuse,” the victim later recounted.
Ahmad expressed deep regret over ST’s actions, noting that the teacher seemed to exploit the boy’s vulnerability. Even after the victim arrived at the boarding school, ST continued to contact him via phone. “During the first week, ST reached out, and they met. After that, we confiscated the victim’s phone, and he started to feel more at ease,” Ahmad shared.
The turning point came when ahmad discovered a message from ST to the victim. ”I’ve read the messages. ST wrote, ‘if you can’t be close to your family, you must be close to me.’ It was deeply troubling,” Ahmad emphasized. The victim,reflecting on his experience,admitted,”I just realized,bro,that I was wrong. I was manipulated.”
The abuse first came to light in November 2023 when residents raided ST’s home and found the two together in the bathroom. Mediation followed, and ST was dismissed from his teaching position. despite this, the two remained in contact, and ST even arranged for the victim to stay with him for five months. in September 2024, the victim was hospitalized at ST’s house, where another incident occurred. ST’s father, hearing noises from the supposedly empty house, discovered the victim and confronted him.
The victim has as reported the abuse, and the police are investigating the case. An official report is expected to be filed soon. Meanwhile, ST’s whereabouts remain unknown.
This story underscores the importance of community support and the role of faith-based institutions in helping survivors of abuse heal and rebuild their lives. The victim’s journey is a testament to resilience, but it also highlights the need for vigilance and accountability in protecting vulnerable individuals.
How did the specific Islamic teachings and practices implemented at the boarding school contribute too the teenager’s healing process?
Healing Through Faith: A Teenager’s Journey to Recovery After Abuse
An Exclusive Interview with Ahmad Gufron, Caretaker of the Islamic Boarding School in Grobogan
Archyde News: Thank you for joining us today, Mr. Gufron. Your work at the Islamic boarding school has been instrumental in helping this young teenager recover from a deeply traumatic experiance. Can you tell us more about how he came to be under your care?
Ahmad Gufron: Thank you for having me. This young boy was brought to us by his family after the incident. He was in a very fragile state—withdrawn, silent, and visibly traumatized. His family believed that the structured habitat of the boarding school, combined with the spiritual guidance we provide, would help him heal.
Archyde News: What were the first steps you took to help him feel safe and begin his healing process?
Ahmad Gufron: The first priority was to create a safe and nurturing environment for him. We ensured that he was surrounded by supportive peers and caring staff. We didn’t pressure him to talk or participate in activities right away. Instead, we gave him time to adjust and let him know that he was in a place where he could trust the people around him.
Archyde News: how did faith play a role in his recovery?
Ahmad Gufron: Faith has been a cornerstone of his healing. We introduced him to daily prayers, recitation of the Koran, and discussions about Islamic teachings that emphasize resilience, forgiveness, and the importance of community. These practices helped him find inner peace and a sense of purpose. Over time, he began to open up and share his thoughts, which was a meaningful breakthrough.
Archyde News: What challenges did you face during this process, and how did you overcome them?
Ahmad Gufron: The biggest challenge was breaking through his initial silence and fear. He was reluctant to interact with others and often isolated himself. We addressed this by encouraging small, gradual interactions—starting with one-on-one conversations and then slowly integrating him into group activities. Patience and consistency were key.
archyde News: Can you share a moment that stood out to you as a sign of his progress?
Ahmad Gufron: There was a moment during a group Koran recitation session when he volunteered to read aloud. It was the first time he had actively participated in front of others. Seeing him confidently share his voice with his peers was incredibly moving. It showed us that he was beginning to trust again and find his place within the community.
Archyde News: What message would you like to share with others who might potentially be supporting survivors of abuse?
Ahmad Gufron: Healing is a journey, and it requires patience, compassion, and a strong support system. Survivors need to know that they are not alone and that there is hope for recovery. Faith, community, and professional guidance can all play vital roles in helping them rebuild their lives.
archyde News: Thank you, Mr. Gufron,for sharing your insights and for the incredible work you’re doing to support this young boy and others like him.
Ahmad Gufron: Thank you. It’s a privilege to be part of his journey,and I hope his story inspires others to seek help and find strength in their faith and community.
This interview has been edited for clarity and length. For more stories of resilience and recovery, visit Archyde News.