The UGM students are examining one of the community livestock, a lamb, on Hiri Island

The KKN-PPM (Community Empowerment Program) students from Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), located in Pulau Hiri, Ternate, North Maluku, recently carried out a comprehensive health check-up for livestock in collaboration with the Ternate City Livestock Office. This initiative forms part of a larger effort to enhance livestock welfare and prevent the spread of diseases that can affect animal populations in the region.

The program saw UGM KKN-PPM students working hand-in-hand with livestock experts from the Ternate Livestock Office to conduct health checks on goats owned by local villagers. The health check-up process included essential steps such as assessing the physical condition of the goats, measuring their body temperature, and identifying any signs of disease that might require medical intervention.

Ensuring Livestock Health and Preventing Disease Spread

The primary aim of these health checks was to ensure that the livestock were in good health and free from any potential diseases. The examination results showed that the majority of goats were in healthy condition. Those who were found to be in good health were then vaccinated as a preventive measure against common livestock diseases, such as foot-and-mouth disease and parasitic infections.

In addition to the health checks, the vaccination program plays a critical role in disease prevention, ensuring that the goats remain healthy and reducing the risk of outbreaks that could negatively impact the local livestock population. If any goats displayed signs of illness during the examination, immediate medical treatment was provided. This included administering medication based on the diagnosis, which is essential for ensuring prompt recovery and preventing disease transmission to other animals.

 

Addressing Challenges in Livestock Management

Rangga, the team leader for UGM KKN-PPM in Pulau Hiri, highlighted the program’s significance in light of the area’s livestock management practices. “This program is especially vital because the livestock system in Pulau Hiri still relies on the ‘free-range’ method, where animals are allowed to roam freely without proper enclosures,” Rangga explained. This system presents unique challenges in managing livestock health, making regular health checks and vaccinations even more crucial in preventing disease outbreaks and maintaining the livestock population.

The initiative aims not only to improve the health of the goats but also to raise awareness among local farmers about the importance of maintaining their livestock’s health. By doing so, the farmers can improve the productivity and quality of their animals, which will ultimately benefit the local economy and improve community livelihoods.

Training and Educating Local Farmers

Along with the health checks, the KKN-PPM team also provided training and education for local farmers on proper livestock care, focusing on animal welfare practices. During the training sessions, farmers learned essential techniques for caring for goats, including providing nutritious feed, maintaining clean living spaces, and preventing diseases through proper hygiene and vaccination.

The educational aspect of the program aimed to increase the farmers’ knowledge of effective livestock management, helping them avoid common health issues that could affect their animals. The program has already had a positive impact, as evidenced by the significant improvement in livestock health in Pulau Hiri and a marked decrease in disease transmission.

A Positive and Sustainable Impact on the Community

An official from the Ternate City Livestock Office expressed their support for the initiative, saying, “We hope that activities like this can be carried out regularly, ensuring that the livestock population in Pulau Hiri stays healthy and productive, which will ultimately help the local economy.”

This program is expected to greatly improve the health and welfare of livestock in Pulau Hiri, contributing not only to the success of local livestock management efforts but also to the overall economic development of the community.

Strengthening Collaborations for Future Impact

The success of this program illustrates the importance of partnerships in achieving sustainable development goals. Through collaborations between Universitas Gadjah Mada, the Ternate City Livestock Office, and the local community, the initiative has the potential to make a lasting positive impact on the region. It is hoped that similar initiatives can be carried out regularly to support both animal welfare and community well-being, contributing to long-term development in the area.

Contributing to SDGs and Future Opportunities for International Students

This KKN-PPM initiative aligns with several key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 2: Zero Hunger, by improving livestock health, and SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, through promoting sustainable farming practices. Additionally, the program contributes to SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, by fostering the productivity of local farmers.

International undergraduate students looking to make a tangible impact in communities worldwide are invited to join the KKN-PPM program at UGM. This program offers a unique opportunity for students to apply their academic knowledge in real-world contexts, engage with local communities, and contribute to global sustainable development goals. Students from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to participate in future KKN-PPM sessions, where they can gain valuable hands-on experience while making a difference in areas like sustainable agriculture, community health, and animal welfare.

International students who participate in this initiative will have the opportunity to work alongside UGM students, faculty, and local communities, contributing to meaningful and sustainable change

Tags: SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth)

Author: bil

Contributors: Alia Zahra

 

UGM Students who performed KKN-PPM program in Baturiti and Kerambitan Village, Bali

Higher education is not just about gaining knowledge in classrooms; it’s also about applying that knowledge to the community. This concept lies at the core of the UGM KKN-PPM Team’s mission in Kerambitan, Tabanan, Bali. The team, working in the villages of Baturiti and Kerambitan, has focused on the theme of empowering and optimizing local resources through the implementation of innovative technology to improve community welfare and promote sustainable development.

The theme chosen by the KKN-PPM UGM team is highly relevant to local needs. Empowerment in this context is aimed at providing the community with access to new knowledge and skills, while resource optimization seeks to maximize the potential of the region’s natural resources, culture, and tourism. By focusing on these areas, the program aims to uplift the local population and create lasting positive change.

Innovative Technology to Drive Local Progress

A key focus of the KKN-PPM UGM team’s work in these villages is the use of innovative technology. The program centers around several important initiatives. The first is the promotion of physical and mental well-being through health synergy programs, which aim to integrate healthcare with community development. In addition, the team has introduced Automatic Weather Stations (AWS) to monitor local weather conditions, allowing farmers and residents to adapt to weather changes, optimize agricultural productivity, and improve disaster preparedness.

Another core aspect of the team’s work is the sustainable management of waste. The introduction of digital technologies aims to help the community reduce waste and move toward a zero-waste model. This focus on sustainability aligns closely with the global goal of reducing environmental impact while fostering local solutions.

Digital Transformation to Boost Local Economic Competitiveness

The KKN-PPM UGM students is also driving digital transformation to enhance the economic competitiveness of the local communities. One of the key areas of focus is the revitalization of agriculture using Internet of Things (IoT) technology to create more efficient irrigation systems. This smart farming solution ensures optimal water usage, improving crop yields and contributing to the sustainable use of local water resources, aligning with SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation.

In addition to technology-driven agriculture, the team’s efforts include entrepreneurship training to increase household incomes and improve local businesses. The holistic approach addresses both economic growth and social well-being, emphasizing the importance of a balanced, integrated development strategy.

Health, Education, and Environmental Sustainability for Long-term Impact

Beyond economic improvements, the KKN-PPM program also focuses on enhancing community health, education, and environmental sustainability. The team’s initiatives include health awareness programs, educational workshops on sustainable farming practices, and efforts to improve sanitation and waste management systems in both villages. By fostering a culture of sustainability, the team is helping to build a foundation for long-term, environmentally responsible development.

Through these programs, the KKN-PPM UGM team is working to create a comprehensive model for sustainable development that integrates environmental, social, and economic factors. The goal is not just to improve living conditions in the short term, but to ensure that these improvements are sustainable and that future generations will be able to build upon them.

Sustainable Development for the Future: A Long-term Vision

The long-term vision for the KKN-PPM UGM program in Baturiti and Kerambitan is to create sustainable, community-driven development that aligns with the global goals of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Agenda. The team’s work in building infrastructure, educating the community on environmentally friendly practices, and encouraging active participation in local decision-making is designed to provide both immediate benefits and lasting change. The hope is that this initiative will inspire and leave a positive, lasting impact on the two villages.

Connecting with the SDGs: Empowering Communities through Technology

This initiative aligns with several key SDGs, particularly SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth). Through its focus on health, technology, entrepreneurship, and environmental sustainability, the program aims to address local challenges while contributing to global development goals. By empowering local communities with the knowledge and tools needed to thrive, the KKN-PPM UGM team is helping to create a more sustainable and prosperous future for the residents of Baturiti and Kerambitan.

Inviting Global Students to Join UGM’s KKN-PPM Program

UGM invites international undergraduate students to participate in the KKN-PPM program and contribute to initiatives like these that foster sustainable development. Students will have the opportunity to engage in impactful community projects, gain hands-on experience in rural development, and learn about the challenges faced by communities in Indonesia. UGM also welcomes professors from around the world to visit and guide their students in these transformative projects. Through KKN-PPM, students and faculty alike will be able to make a meaningful contribution while advancing the global development agenda.

Tags: SDG 11:Kota dan Pemukiman yang Berkelanjutan SDGS 1:Tanpa Kemiskinan SDGS 13:Penanganan Perubahan Iklim SDGS 3 : Kehidupan Sehat dan Sejahtera SDGS 4: Pendidikan Berkualitas SDGS 6:Air Bersih dan Sanitasi Layak SDGS 8: Mendorong pertumbuhan ekonomi inklusif dan berkelanjutan SDGS 9 : Industri _ Inovasi dan Infrastruktur

Author: bil

Contributors: Rif’atul Afifah Zen, Zahra Aisya Rosa Febrianingtyas,

 

The community of Baha Village attending Free Healthcare Event organized by UGM KKN-PPM students and John Fawcett Foundation

The KKN-PPM students from Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), performing student community service in the Mengwi area of Bali, collaborated with the John Fawcett Foundation (JFF) to organize a series of free eye exams, glasses distribution, and cataract surgeries for the community of Baha Village on July 16^th, 2024. Supported by various stakeholders, including the presence of the Badung Regency Secretary, this initiative is part of a broader effort to improve eye health, particularly for elderly patients. This program is also aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3, which focuses on ensuring good health and well-being for all, particularly addressing health issues in older populations.

Providing Free Healthcare to the Community

The event served 220 residents from Desa Baha and surrounding areas, offering free eye exams and glasses to those in need. After undergoing the initial screenings, ten individuals were identified as requiring cataract surgery, which was performed free of charge by the medical team from JFF. In addition to the surgery, patients also received post-operative care at Wantilan Pura Dalem, Desa Baha, ensuring comprehensive treatment and follow-up support.

Angelica Callysta Viera, the coordinator of the KKN-PPM team in Mengwi, expressed her gratitude for the collaboration. “We are extremely grateful to JFF for facilitating the free cataract surgeries, and our hope is that this program can improve the quality of life for the local community,” she shared.

A Long-term Impact on Community Health

Echoing Angelica’s sentiments, Nengah Sariase, the Screening Coordinator for JFF, added, “We are pleased to collaborate on this social service activity, and we hope that the cataract treatment program can continue in the future.” The collaborative spirit of this initiative highlights the importance of partnerships in driving long-term health improvements in underserved communities.

The event met high enthusiasm and appreciation from the local residents of Desa Baha. One of the cataract surgery patients, Ibu Uripah, expressed her heartfelt thanks, saying, “I feel relieved after the surgery. This program is wonderful, and the service was very friendly. Thank you to JFF and KKN UGM.”

A Lasting Collaboration for Health Improvement

This event is expected to begin an ongoing partnership between the KKN-PPM UGM team and the John Fawcett Foundation, focusing on sustainable healthcare improvements for Desa Baha and surrounding communities. By continuing such programs, both organizations aim to create lasting positive impacts on the health and well-being of the population, particularly for the elderly, and contribute to the achievement of SDG 3, which seeks to ensure access to essential health services and promote well-being at all ages.

The healthcare professional is examining one of the patients from Baha Village

 

Contributing to SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being

This initiative directly supports SDG 3 by improving eye health and providing access to crucial healthcare services for a vulnerable segment of the population. By offering free medical treatments, including cataract surgeries and follow-up care, the program addresses critical health needs and enhances the quality of life for elderly residents. The focus on accessible healthcare and well-being is a key step towards building a healthier, more inclusive society.

Invitation for Global Participation

UGM invites international students, especially those studying healthcare, social sciences, and community development, to engage in future KKN-PPM programs. Students will be able to work with local communities and global partners to improve health outcomes and promote sustainable development. Professors are also welcome to visit UGM to explore the impact of such programs and guide students in contributing to life-changing initiatives.

Tags: SDGS 1:Tanpa Kemiskinan SDGS 17: Kemitraan untuk mencapai tujuan SDGS 3 : Kehidupan Sehat dan Sejahtera SDGS 5 : SDG 5: Ekosistem daratan

Author: bil

Contributor: Muh. Bagus Kurniawan

Photos: Gifto Ramadha

A group of students from the KKN-PPM UGM program in Jatiyoso, Karanganyar, Central Java, has shown their commitment to enhancing education for elementary school students in the villages of Tlobo and Karangsari through a creative school introduction activity on July 22, 2024. The event, which involved supplementary lessons and activities, aimed to increase students’ knowledge and foster creativity. This initiative aligns with SDG 4: Quality Education, which focuses on ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all.

The KKN-PPM UGM students introduced various engaging subjects, including eco-printing, volcanic eruption simulations, making ice cream, an introduction to agricultural products, and raising awareness about the importance of setting goals from a young age. These activities were designed to enrich the student’s academic knowledge and nurture their creativity and curiosity. Beyond classroom activities, outdoor games were also incorporated to stimulate the children’s cognitive and motor skills. One highlight was the Treasure Hunt, an exciting game encouraging teamwork and problem-solving.

 

The students were divided into small groups of 3-4 children, each tasked with completing three different stations to collect points and discover hidden treasures. These stations focused on disaster mitigation, world geography, and mathematical challenges. At the disaster mitigation station, students learned about various natural disasters, such as earthquakes and floods, and how to protect themselves during such events. The geography station tested their knowledge of countries and continents using a world map, helping them develop a broader understanding of global geography. Finally, the math treasure station challenged the students to solve math problems as a team within 10 minutes, promoting collaboration and critical thinking. Each station provided valuable knowledge and honed students’ teamwork and problem-solving abilities.

As a culmination of the event, the winning group—who collected the most points—was awarded exciting prizes. This fun yet educational experience aimed to motivate the students to remain enthusiastic about learning and to inspire them to pursue their dreams for a brighter future. The KKN-PPM UGM team hopes that through these engaging educational activities, the students of Tlobo and Karangsari will continue to strive for academic excellence and develop the confidence to face the challenges of tomorrow.

Empowering Future Generations: Supporting SDG 4

This initiative supports SDG 4 (Quality Education) by promoting creativity, critical thinking, and practical learning experiences that go beyond traditional classroom settings. By offering these enriching activities, the KKN-PPM UGM team is helping students to develop a diverse skill set that will benefit them in their academic and personal lives. The ability to adapt to and engage with new ideas is crucial for success in the rapidly changing world, and this program aims to lay the foundation for a generation of learners who are prepared to thrive in a globalized society.

Moreover, the event encouraged a collaborative approach to learning, emphasizing teamwork, problem-solving, and peer support. These skills are essential for academic success and social and emotional development, which is integral to achieving SDG 4’s goal of providing quality education for all children, irrespective of their background.

Inspiring Future Educators and Students

The success of this initiative highlights the potential for community-based programs to make a tangible difference in the lives of young learners. The KKN-PPM UGM students’ efforts are a great example of how academic institutions can play an active role in developing local communities while also preparing students to be global citizens who understand the importance of education in shaping sustainable futures. Through hands-on, engaging educational projects like this one, the program also offers valuable learning experiences for the participants, who gain practical insights into how they can continue to contribute to society in the future.

A Call to Global Students and Educators

UGM encourages international undergraduate students to join the KKN-PPM program and become a part of transformative initiatives like this one. Students from all around the world will have the opportunity to engage in community-based educational projects, working directly with local populations to make a lasting impact. This hands-on experience allows students to not only share their knowledge but also learn from the unique perspectives and challenges faced by communities in Indonesia. Additionally, UGM welcomes international professors to visit and explore these programs, offering guidance to their students while participating in meaningful educational outreach efforts. By joining KKN-PPM, participants will gain invaluable experiences while contributing to achieving SDG 4 and other global development goals.

Tags: SDGS 17: Kemitraan untuk mencapai tujuan SDGS 4: Pendidikan Berkualitas SDGS 5 : SDG 5: Ekosistem daratan

Author: bil

Contributors: Dilla Meylia, Fauzia Erbin, Dn_Halimah

Photos: Amalia Vega

 

One of the UGM KKN-PPM students showcases the tool their team built, which was warmly welcomed by the local community

A team of KKN-PPM students from Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) has taken an innovative approach to support SDG 13 – Climate Action – by developing a simple earthquake detection tool in Jambewangi Village. Indonesia, being one of the most earthquake-prone countries in the world, faces significant risks, making it critical to have effective technology and preparedness measures in place to mitigate disaster impacts. Recognizing this, the UGM KKN-PPM students created a low-cost, accessible earthquake detection system designed to act as an early-warning mechanism, enabling residents to better prepare for seismic events.

The earthquake detection tool was designed using easily sourced and affordable materials, making it feasible for implementation in high-risk areas across Indonesia. Ajus Dwimantara, one of the team members who helped design the device, explained, “Though simple, this tool can detect the vibrations caused by seismic activity and activate a buzzer as an early warning system.” When vibrations are detected, the tool emits an alarm that can be heard within homes, giving residents a chance to respond quickly and reduce the risk of injury.

In addition to developing the detection technology, the UGM KKN-PPM students also focused on educating and engaging the local community. They conducted training sessions on how to use the earthquake detection device and provided guidelines on appropriate actions during an earthquake. This initiative is part of the team’s broader effort to raise awareness about disaster preparedness, which is directly aligned with SDG 13’s goal to reduce the impacts of climate change and disasters.

This initiative not only strengthens the resilience of Jambewangi Village against earthquakes but also contributes to the broader global efforts for climate action. By utilizing simple, appropriate technology and empowering local communities, the KKN-PPM students hopes to inspire other regions at similar risk to take proactive steps towards disaster prevention and preparedness. With continued innovation and community-driven solutions, this project demonstrates the power of sustainable, grassroots action in addressing global challenges like climate change.

Beyond the immediate benefits of earthquake preparedness, this initiative also emphasizes the role of local knowledge and active community involvement in disaster mitigation. The KKN-PPM students worked closely with village leaders and residents to ensure the tool’s design was both practical and culturally appropriate for the community. By incorporating local input, the project fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility among the villagers, ensuring its sustainability in the long term.

Moreover, the success of this project in Jambewangi Village presents an opportunity to scale the initiative to other disaster-prone regions in Indonesia and beyond. With the growing threat of climate-related disasters globally, such grassroots innovations, rooted in both technology and community engagement, offer a powerful model for resilience and adaptation, perfectly aligned with the broader objectives of SDG 13 and other climate-related goals.

Following the success of the earthquake detection initiative in Jambewangi Village, UGM invites international undergraduate students to join the KKN-PPM program and become part of impactful, community-driven projects like this one. Students will have the chance to collaborate on innovative solutions to global challenges, such as disaster preparedness, climate resilience, and sustainable development. Through hands-on involvement, participants will not only contribute to vital local initiatives but also gain valuable experience in cross-cultural collaboration and real-world problem solving.

UGM also welcomes international professors to visit and explore these transformative projects, with the opportunity to guide their students as they address critical local issues. By joining KKN-PPM, students and professors alike can make a meaningful difference while enriching their academic journeys and promoting sustainable solutions to global challenges, in line with the goals of SDG 13 and beyond.

Tags: SDG 11:Kota dan Pemukiman yang Berkelanjutan SDGS 13:Penanganan Perubahan Iklim SDGS 4: Pendidikan Berkualitas SDGS 9 : Industri _ Inovasi dan Infrastruktur

author: bil

contributor: Kirei Shashi, DN Halimah

 

One of Indonesia’s provinces famous for its tourism is Bali. Each district and city in Bali has its own unique tourism potential, with the island being renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and rich heritage. However, Badung Regency stands out as the district with the largest and most developed tourism sector. Despite this, many villages within Badung Regency, Sobangan Village, and Baha Village have not yet fully tapped into their tourism potential. An essential issue impeding the growth of tourism in Sobangan and Baha Villages is the absence of a comprehensive map illustrating the possible dispersion of the places’ potential. This results in these potentials not being utilized and empowered optimally. Without a clear understanding of the strengths and opportunities within these villages, stakeholders and community members struggle to formulate effective strategies for tourism development.

Acknowledging these challenges, several initiatives have been implemented by UGM KKN-PPM students in Sobangan Village and its surrounding areas, delivering a variety of positive outcomes. UGM KKN-PPM is a student community service program of Universitas Gadjah Mada, where students are obliged to learn and live within the community for 50 days from July to August 2023. One significant step taken by UGM KKN-PPM students was creating detailed reports on mapping micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). These reports provide stakeholders with valuable recommendations for developing MSMEs in the village. By identifying and analyzing the local businesses, the community can better understand how to support and grow these enterprises, which are crucial for economic development and job creation. This supports SDGs Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, which is expected to improve working conditions, enhance financial inclusion, and promote sustainable tourism for the community in the villages.

Reports on mapping MSMEs also serve as strategic materials for developing tourism support facilities in Baha Village. These reports help identify gaps and opportunities in the village’s infrastructure and services, guiding the development of facilities that cater to tourists’ needs. Additionally, the identification of agricultural product distribution in Sobangan Village contributes to optimizing its agricultural potential. By understanding the distribution network, the village can improve its agricultural practices and market its products more effectively, attracting agrotourism enthusiasts.

Additionally, UGM KKN-PPM students also created a profile video of the villages. Creating profile videos featuring local artists and their art products has helped create an image and attraction for the village’s art scene. These videos not only showcase the talents of local artists but also serve as a marketing tool to attract tourists interested in cultural and artistic experiences. Furthermore, the identification of transportation businesses provides insights into the potential and challenges of the tourism industry in these areas. Understanding the transportation network is essential for improving accessibility and convenience for tourists. 

Making profile videos of artists and art products in Baha Village promotes the village’s cultural richness. These videos highlight the village’s unique artistic expressions and cultural heritage, appealing to tourists interested in cultural tourism. In Sobangan Village, the documentation of oral literary diversity is another important initiative. This documentation preserves the village’s cultural heritage and adds to its tourism identity. Oral traditions, stories, and folklore are valuable cultural assets that can attract tourists seeking authentic and immersive experiences. Similarly, Baha Village has seen several detailed initiatives that have had significant impacts. One notable event is the presentation and showcase of the Buzzwire scientific experiment at the Children’s Day Festival. This event demonstrated and celebrated children’s creativity, engaging the younger generation and promoting educational tourism. Such events can draw families and educational groups to the village, diversifying its tourism offerings. This cultural tourism is integral to achieving SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, as it enhances social cohesion, promotes sustainable tourism, supports inclusive urban development, and contributes to the resilience and identity of communities. By preserving and promoting cultural tourism, villages and communities can become more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable, aligning with the broader goals of sustainable development

Furthermore, UGM KKN-PPM students used GIS-based mapping of livestock and MSME distribution, which provides important information about the economic potential and business distribution in the villages. This data-driven approach allows for a comprehensive analysis of the local economy, identifying key areas for development and investment. GIS-based mapping of artist and tourism industry distribution enriches insights into cultural attractions and tourism potential, enabling more targeted and effective marketing strategies. The KKN-PPM students expected that designing village mapping and creating a website could provide residents and visitors with an informative and interactive platform. These digital tools is anticipated to enhance the visibility of the villages’ attractions, making it easier for tourists to plan their visits and explore the local offerings. 

The initiatives and strategies implemented in Sobangan Village and Baha Village by the UGM KKN-PPM students demonstrate the importance of integrated planning and community involvement in tourism development. By leveraging their unique potential and utilizing modern tools and technologies, these villages can unlock new opportunities for growth and create a sustainable and vibrant tourism sector that benefits both residents and visitors.

The villages of Seurapong, Ulee Paya, and Teunom, nestled on the picturesque and remote Breuh Island, are a part of the Pulo Aceh District of Aceh Besar Regency, within the Aceh Province of Indonesia. This island, the westernmost part of Indonesia, is a stunning blend of hilly terrain, sandy beaches, coral reefs, and lush landscapes, making it a unique and beautiful place to live.

The inhabitants of Teunom, Seurapong, and Ulee Paya primarily engage in agriculture, animal husbandry, and fisheries, forming the backbone of their local economy. In the agricultural sector, rice stands out as the primary commodity produced for local consumption. Despite the community’s reliance on agriculture, the management and productivity of agricultural products remain suboptimal. Challenges such as limited arable land, difficult irrigation, and insufficient agricultural knowledge and skills among the residents hinder their ability to achieve self-sufficiency in food production. As a result, the villagers often find themselves dependent on sourcing vegetables from outside their immediate area to meet their daily nutritional needs.

Recognizing these challenges, a dedicated student team from the Community Service Program (KKN-PPM) Unit AC002 of Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) took the initiative to collaborate with the local community during the second period of KKN-PPM program in 2023. Their mission was to empower the residents by enhancing their agricultural skills and introducing sustainable practices that could improve their quality of life.

One of the key initiatives undertaken by Unit AC002 was the introduction of aquaponic systems. This innovative approach aimed to maximize the use of limited land by combining cultivating vegetables, such as water spinach, with raising catfish in a symbiotic environment. The aquaponic systems provided a sustainable solution to the problem of limited agricultural land while also offering a reliable source of nutritious food for the community. This also supports sustainable development goals, especially goal 15: Life on Land, since aquaponics does not rely on soil, eliminating soil depletion and maintaining the integrity of terrestrial ecosystems. Also, it supports sustainable agriculture as it combines fish farming (aquaculture) and plant cultivation (hydroponics) in a closed-loop system. This maximizes resource use efficiency, utilizing less water and land compared to traditional farming. Aquaponics contributes to the sustainable management and efficient use of natural resources, aligns with the goals of reducing land degradation, promotes biodiversity, and supports sustainable agricultural practices. 

In addition to addressing agricultural challenges, Unit AC002 also focused on improving the community’s access to clean water. They assisted in creating water purifiers, which played a crucial role in maintaining and ensuring a consistent supply of clean water for daily use. Access to clean water is fundamental for the residents’ health and well-being. Thus, the UGM KKN-PPM student team’s efforts were instrumental in supporting the community’s needs. It also supports SDG Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation, which aims to ensure the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all. Creating and maintaining water purifiers can be a community-driven initiative, involving local participation in the development, implementation, and maintenance of water purification systems. This enhances community ownership and ensures the sustainability of clean water access.

The collaboration between the UGM KKN-PPM students and the villagers of Breuh Island exemplifies the power of knowledge sharing and community engagement. By working together, they addressed immediate challenges and laid the foundation for a more sustainable and self-reliant future for the residents of Seurapong, Ulee Paya, and Teunom. This partnership highlights the importance of education, innovation, and community support in driving positive change in remote and underserved areas.

Dikson Ibrahim Nusi, the head of Tontayuo village, expressed deep gratitude for his village being selected as a location for the Community Service Program (KKN) by Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) and Universitas Negeri Gorontalo (UNG). Since June 27, 2023, the students from these universities have been actively involved in a variety of projects designed to benefit the local community.

Among the notable initiatives, the creation of a tourism master plan stands out as a significant contribution. This plan aims to develop the village’s tourism potential, providing a structured approach to attract visitors and boost the local economy (SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth). Additionally, the development of a village website is another critical project, offering a digital platform to showcase the village’s assets, disseminate information, and connect with a broader audience (SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure).

The students have also undertaken the task of recording village potentials, an effort that involves documenting the unique resour

ces and strengths of Tontayuo. This initiative is crucial for identifying areas that can be leveraged for future development and support (SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities).

Safitri Dwi Lestari, a UGM student participating in the KKN program, shared her positive experience. She highlighted the warm reception from the community and the collaborative spirit that has defined their stay. The interaction with local residents has not only facilitated the implementation of their projects but also enriched the students’ learning experience by providing practical insights and fostering mutual

understanding (SDG 4: Quality Education).

The collaborative KKN program is scheduled to continue until August 9, 2023, encompassing a range of activities. These include education on early marriage, aimed at raising awareness about the implications and promoting informed decision-making among young people (SDG 5: Gender Equality). Environmental conservation projects are also a key focus, reflecting a commitment to sustainable practices and the preservation of natural resources (SDG 13: Climate Action and SDG 15: Life on Land).

This blend of educational outreach and practical projects underscores the program’s holistic approach, aiming not only to address immediate needs but also to lay a foundation for long-term community empowerment. The gratitude expressed by the village head, Dikson Ibrahim Nusi, is a testament to the positive impact of the KKN program, highlighting the potential for academic-community partnerships to drive meaningful change.

For more details, visit Berita Gorontalo.