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