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sdgs#17 – partnerships for the goals

Learning from Atuka: Stories from the Edge of Indonesia

articlegood practicessdgs#17 - partnerships for the goalssdgs#4 - quality education Monday, 4 August 2025

Not many have heard of Atuka, a small remote village tucked away in Central Mimika District, Mimika Regency, Papua. Located near the eastern edge of Indonesia, reaching this village requires a long and winding journey: a flight from Yogyakarta to Timika, followed by a one-and-a-half-hour drive to Pomako Port, and finally a two-hour boat ride upstream on a wooden canoe before arriving in Atuka.

Our main mission was to conduct monitoring and evaluation of Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM)’s KKN-PPM community service program currently being held in the area. But once we set foot in Atuka, we realized this was far more than a routine work trip. Atuka held stories, faces, and lessons that moved us in ways we never anticipated.

 

We were warmly welcomed by the local community and UGM students stationed in Atuka. The sky stretched bright and blue over the village, unmarred by pollution or noise. With no motorized vehicles in sight, people in Atuka walk everywhere. Footpaths blend into nature—accompanied by sea breezes and the cheerful laughter of children playing on a grassy field.

We arrived at the student lodging after a long journey, where the UGM students kindly offered us steamed buns and green coconut cakes—whose names, admittedly, we forgot to ask. As we sat and rested, we exchanged stories about their progress, challenges, and everyday life in Atuka. A few young children curiously peeked at us from the porch, shyly giggling when the students invited them to join the conversation.

As the sun began to sink westward, the students took us on a walk around the village. We followed narrow paths cutting through wooden stilt houses. Partway through our walk, seawater slowly crept onto the roads—a natural occurrence that happens every afternoon in Atuka. Unprepared, we removed our shoes and walked barefoot. The students, now accustomed to the phenomenon, were ready with their rubber sandals.

Along the way, children and residents greeted us with curious smiles. “Good afternoon,” they’d say warmly as we passed. Some waved from their porches while we carried our damp shoes. We returned the greetings with smiles and gratitude. Often, we greeted them first, a small gesture of respect.

As we walked, the students explained what they had learned about life in Atuka—from sacred boundary lines that must not be crossed, to how the community survives with minimal access to modern amenities, and the deep-rooted challenges in education.

Electricity in Atuka only runs for six hours a day, from 6 PM to midnight. While many of us can’t imagine life without 24/7 electricity, for Atuka’s residents, lighting at night is all they need. Clean water is another challenge. Rainwater is collected for daily use since the groundwater is mixed with seawater. During our stay, the rain hadn’t fallen for days, so we fetched water from a communal tank with buckets just to bathe and wash.

Life in Atuka is shaped by limitation. Meals aren’t about choices, but survival. Many villagers eat plain white rice just to fill their stomachs. “One child here told us that he sometimes sprinkles coffee powder over rice to add flavor,” shared a UGM student. Nutritious meals are a luxury. On good days, they catch karaka (crab) during low tide for dinner. But even in limitation, the people of Atuka live with resilience. This is the life they know—regardless of how outsiders perceive it.

 

Eventually, we reached Atuka Elementary School, where infrastructure-focused UGM students were installing a Rainwater Harvesting System (IPAH), one of their key projects. The school was chosen to ensure the water source would be accessible to all.

 

Though the system was still being assembled, we continued to the junior high school at the edge of the village. Children played soccer and traditional games on the field, their laughter ringing in the air. We sat with the teachers, who shared heartfelt stories.

 

Pak Siswa, one of the teachers, explained that out of 50 students, only about 15 continued to senior high school. The rest stopped. “Parents here don’t see education as essential,” he said. “Many would rather their children go fishing or crab hunting to help feed the family.” To them, school is a distant luxury, not a necessity.

 

Hearing this tightened something in our chest. In other places, children dare to dream big. But here, not every child even gets the chance to stay in school.

As dusk approached, we said goodbye to the teachers and returned to the student lodging. Across the street stood the Mimika Tengah District Office. While it offered the only functioning public toilet, the office itself sat quiet and unused—the staff working remotely from home. Inside, desks and shelves were coated in dust, a gentle but sobering reminder of untapped public resources.

Later, we shared a simple dinner with the students. There are no food stalls in Atuka, so they had cooked kangkung (water spinach) and reheated rendang we brought from Yogyakarta. The food, though modest, felt special in the warmth of community. Over dinner, we chatted casually about their upcoming return to Java.

That evening, Papi Leo, the village elder lovingly called “Papi” by the students, visited as he always did. Every day, he checked in to make sure they were okay. He shared how he had gone into town to collect a village stipend. The trip cost more than he received. “But Papi is still happy,” he smiled.

Papi also shared his thoughts on the students: “Their presence feels like a dream. I never imagined a remote village like ours could welcome them. I’m overjoyed that these young people chose to live and spend time with us,” he said. “They didn’t just bring knowledge, but kindness and attention. That’s what matters most.”

The District Head later expressed hope that UGM’s community service program would expand beyond Atuka to reach other nearby villages. For him, the students had rekindled something vital in the community—energy, color, and hope.

For the students, this wasn’t just about fulfilling a university requirement. It was a powerful life lesson. “Living here has taught me so much about sharing and the meaning of enough,” said Fatasya, a student from the Vocational School. “Things we often take for granted can be considered luxuries elsewhere.”

That night, before sleeping, we were reminded to wear socks. The students warned us about tiny bugs called agas that bite at night, especially around the feet. We saw firsthand how the students had endured itchy, even wounded skin. Our hearts ached for them, but we also admired their spirit.

The next morning, we waited for the water level to rise before the boat could carry us back. As we prepared to leave, the students and children came to send us off. There were handshakes, waves, and smiles that hid tears. It was hard to say goodbye. We left with full hearts and quiet prayers, hoping everyone there stays safe and well.

Prof. Ir. Nanung Agus Fitriyanto, Ph.D., Head of UGM’s KKN Subdirectorate and the leader of our group, expressed how special this visit had been. This was UGM’s first-ever KKN program in Mimika—almost at the easternmost point of Indonesia. He felt proud of the students who had traveled so far, bringing knowledge and genuine care. “I hope this isn’t the last. May many more meaningful journeys follow.”

 

As our boat drifted away, we looked back with heavy hearts. Not all corners of Indonesia enjoy the same privileges. In Atuka, life is simple, technology isn’t a necessity, and people find joy in little things. That’s the real lesson: that life is about enough, about helping each other, and about finding meaning in simplicity.

That day, we didn’t just conduct a monitoring visit. It became a mirror for reflection—reminding us that what we often overlook are the very things worth cherishing.

Until we meet again, Atuka. A small village far from the city’s noise, but rich in sincerity, simplicity, and hope. Thank you for welcoming us, even if only for a short while. Our footprints may fade with the tide, but your memories will stay with us for a long, long time.

author: bil

 

 

 

UTS Sydney Students Join Culture Day at KKN-PPM Seyegan Unit: Learning Gamelan and Exploring Indonesia’s Cultural Heritage

articlegood practicessdgs#1 - no povertysdgs#17 - partnerships for the goalssdgs#4 - quality education Monday, 28 July 2025

 

On July 16, 2025, the Directorate of Community Service at Universitas Gadjah Mada (DPkM UGM), together with the Regional Coordinator for the Yogyakarta Special Region, conducted a monitoring and evaluation (monev) visit to the KKN-PPM (Community Service Program) Period II in Seyegan, Sleman. This activity was not only attended by UGM students but also involved seven international students from the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), Australia. Coinciding with this visit, a Culture Day celebration was held to honor and showcase local traditions and customs, highlighting the students’ participation in appreciating Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage.

The event began with welcoming remarks from Prof. Ir. Nanung Agus Fitriyanto, S.Pt., M.Sc., Ph.D., Head of the KKN-PPM Sub-directorate at UGM. In his message, Prof. Nanung emphasized the importance of KKN as a multidimensional learning platform where community empowerment and cultural preservation go hand in hand.“Through this community engagement program, students are not only giving but also learning from the local wisdom embedded in society,” he stated.

One of the highlights of the event was a karawitan performance—a traditional Javanese musical art—featuring local residents and cultural performers. After the performance, Culture Day participants were invited to try their hands at playing gamelan instruments. The seven UTS international students enthusiastically took part in the session, guided by local artists from Margoagung. They learned to play traditional instruments such as the saron, kenong, and gong.

For the international students, this experience was truly memorable. They didn’t just observe but actively participated in playing gamelan for the first time.

“Playing gamelan is actually not easy. It’s not just about hitting the instruments—it requires full concentration. I realized it’s quite challenging,” said Valerie.
Meanwhile, William added, “It’s really relaxing. It reminds me of when I did batik—entering a rhythm and trance where you forget everything around you. I felt completely relaxed.”

This collaboration between UGM and UTS reflects the spirit of global partnership in education, especially in developing countries like Indonesia. By engaging international students in local cultural practices, the program promotes mutual respect and understanding of diverse cultures. This aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 4 (Quality Education) and Goal 17 (Global Partnerships).

Moreover, the event served as a platform for cultural exchange, allowing international students to experience firsthand the richness of Indonesia’s heritage. Such initiatives are vital in developing countries, where education and cultural preservation can play a significant role in community development and social cohesion.

The gamelan session not only provided a direct learning experience but also fostered long-lasting memories and friendships among the students. Cultural immersion like this is essential in nurturing a more inclusive and understanding global community.

In conclusion, Culture Day in Seyegan was a remarkable success, celebrating the beauty of Indonesian culture through gamelan while strengthening international collaboration in education. The event underscored the importance of cultural preservation and global partnership both critical components in achieving the SDGs in developing nations.

Writer/Editor: Dn Halimah, Aray/Dn Halimah
Reporters: Aray and team
Photo Source: DPkM UGM Media Team

UGM’s KKN-PPM 2025: Empowering Communities Beyond the Numbers

articlegood practicesKKN International ProgramKKN-PPM for International Students Programssdgssdgs#1 - no povertysdgs#17 - partnerships for the goalssdgs#2 - zero hungersdgs#3 - good health and well-beingsdgs#4 - quality educationsdgs#8 - decent work and economic growth Tuesday, 24 June 2025

A total of 8,038 students were deployed to communities during the Briefing and Deployment Ceremony of KKN-PPM UGM Period 2 of 2025 on Friday (20/6)

Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) has once again reaffirmed its dedication to community service with the launch of KKN-PPM Period 2 of 2025. The deployment ceremony was graced by the presence of the Minister of Trade of the Republic of Indonesia, Dr. Budi Santosa, M.Si., alongside UGM Rector Prof. Dr. Ova Emilia, M.Med.Ed., SpOG(K), Ph.D., who jointly officiated the event.

This period, KKN-PPM recorded its highest participation, involving 8,038 students deployed across 287 locations in 236 districts, 122 regencies/cities, and 35 provinces. Their work is supported by 287 Field Supervisors (DPL) and 23 Regional Coordinators (Korwil).

In her address, Rector Prof. Ova Emilia emphasized that KKN is far more than an academic requirement; it is a real-world learning platform that shapes character and leadership. “KKN is a genuine arena of learning where students confront the complexities of society. It nurtures resilience and compassion, preparing them to be future leaders.” she stated.

Continuing with the theme “Food Sovereignty and Environmental Management to Support Peace and National Progress,” KKN-PPM UGM maintains its focus on strategic issues relevant to community needs.

 

The Minister of Trade of the Republic of Indonesia, accompanied by the Rector and Vice Rector for Education, Community Service, and Alumni (WRKPMA) of UGM, symbolically struck the gong and bamboo slit drum to mark the deployment of KKN-PPM UGM students.

A highlight of this period is UGM’s strategic partnership with the Ministry of Trade, through which students are placed in 110 thematic KKN locations. These locations emphasize support for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), digitization of local grocery stores and kiosks, and revitalizing traditional markets. Minister Dr. Budi Santosa highlighted the students’ role, saying that their contributions transcend academic boundaries to deliver tangible impacts that foster a people-centered economy.

He said, “Students serve as agents of transformation, linking local potential with innovation and technology to strengthen inclusive and sustainable community trade ecosystems.”

Vice Rector for Education, Community Service, and Alumni, Dr. Arie Sujito, S.Sos., M.Si., expressed gratitude to the 162 partners — including ministries, local governments, state-owned enterprises, private sectors, and other higher education institutions — who have supported the program through training, funding, and facilitation. Notable partners include the Ministry of Trade, BPJS Ketenagakerjaan, PT BCA Tbk, PT Freeport Indonesia, and PT Pupuk Indonesia (Persero).

UGM also enhances institutional synergy via its Collaborative KKN scheme with eleven partner universities, including Universitas Nahdlatul Ulama Sunan Giri (UNUGIRI), Universitas Sebelas Maret, Universitas Sultan Ageng Tirtayasa (UNTIRTA), Universitas Warmadewa, Universitas Halu Oleo, Universitas Tadulako, Universitas Borneo Tarakan, Universitas Pattimura, Universitas Gorontalo, Sekolah Tinggi Keguruan dan Ilmu Pendidikan (STKIP) PGRI Pacitan, and the KKN Higher Education Forum in the Yogyakarta and Central Java regions.

 

Students and Field Supervisors (DPL) of the Banggai Kepulauan KKN-PPM Unit pose for a group photo with the UGM Rector during the briefing and deployment ceremony (June 20).

These efforts align with UGM’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing on food security, education, health, economic growth, poverty alleviation, and partnership strengthening. KKN-PPM themes and activities are designed to provide practical, knowledge-based solutions through cross-sector collaboration.

Moreover, students are encouraged to uphold ethical conduct on digital platforms throughout their KKN activities. While sharing inspiring stories on social media is welcomed to promote best practices, it must be done responsibly to honor the dignity of individuals, communities, and the institution.

More than just numbers, KKN-PPM UGM embodies the university’s tridharma mission: education, research, and community service. Through robust collaboration and a steadfast commitment to people-centered values, UGM continues to play a vital role in addressing the nation’s real-world challenges.

author: bil

photos: Khoir

TAGS:
#SDGs #SDG1 #SDG2 #SDG3 #SDG4 #SDG8 #SDG17 #KKN #KKNPPMUGM #pengabdianmasyarakat #communityservice

 

UGM KKN-PPM Team in Mengwi, Bali Partners with John Fawcett Foundation to Provide Free Eye Exams, Glasses, and Cataract Surgery

articlegood practicessdgssdgs#1 - no povertysdgs#15 - life on landsdgs#17 - partnerships for the goalssdgs#3 - good health and well-beingsdgs#5 - gender equality Thursday, 20 March 2025

 

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 16th, 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

KKN-PPM Students of UGM in Jatiyoso Boosts Education with ‘Treasure Hunt’ Activity Focused on Geography Learning and Disaster Mitigation for Elementary Students

articlegood practicessdgssdgs#15 - life on landsdgs#17 - partnerships for the goalssdgs#4 - quality educationsdgs#5 - gender equality Thursday, 20 March 2025

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

 

Universitas Gadjah Mada Explores Cross-Cultural Collaboration with the Royal University of Groningen through KKN-PPM Program

articlegood practicesKKN International Programsdgs#11 - sustainable cities and communitiessdgs#17 - partnerships for the goalssdgs#8 - decent work and economic growth Friday, 14 February 2025

The Royal University of Groningen (RUG) from the Netherlands recently visited Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, to explore and survey UGM’s Student Community Service Program, known as KKN-PPM (Kuliah Kerja Nyata – Pembelajaran Pemberdayaan Masyarakat). During their visit, representatives from RUG aimed to learn more about the program, its impact, and the potential for collaboration in future KKN activities.
The RUG delegation consisted of Dr. B.J.W. (Bartjan) Pennink, an expert in qualitative research methodology, local economic research development, and team management dialogue, and J.C. (John) Falvey, MA, who specializes in international strategy and relations at the University of Groningen. They were welcomed by UGM representatives, including Prof. Ir. Irfan Dwidya Prijambada, M.Eng., Ph.D., former Director of Community Service at UGM, and Prof. Nanung Agus Fitriyanto, S.Pt., M.Sc., Ph.D., IPM, the Head of UGM’s KKN Program.

Head of UGM’s KKN Program Prof. Nanung Agus Fitriyanto, S.Pt., M.Sc., Ph.D., when he was explaining how the community in Demangan Village – Subdistrict Gondokusuman used inactive alley in their area to plant Javanese Chili that has selling value.


Field Visits and Program Highlights

The RUG team visited several KKN sites in Yogyakarta and Gunu

ngkidul Districts, including Subdistrict Gondokusuman and Subdistrict Depok (Yogyakarta District), as well as Subdistrict Ngawen and Subdistrict Nglipar (Gunungkidul District). They also explored a site in East Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara. During these visits, UGM students presented their ongoing community-based programs, sharing insights into village potentials and the challenges they encountered while working in rural settings.
One of the standout programs in Subdistrict Ngawen, specifically in Gunung Gambar village, focused on helping the local community develop their coffee production. UGM students worked closely with villagers to enhance the quality and marketability of their coffee, aiming to position it as a premium product with high economic value. During the visit, the local community also invited the professors to plant coffee trees as a symbolic gesture to strengthen the recognition of Gunung Gambar’s coffee and to represent their shared commitment to fostering sustainable local development. The visiting professors had the opportunity to taste the coffee and praised its exceptional flavor, noting its potential to boost local income.

UGM KKN students in Gunung Gambar presented about their programs and its challenges during their KKN periode.

Strengthening International Collaboration

The University of Groningen expressed keen interest in sending their students to participate in KKN-PPM alongside UGM students. According to Dr. Bartjan Pennink, “This program showcases how academic initiatives can directly empower communities while providing students with hands-on learning experiences. Partnering in such a program aligns perfectly with our goals to promote sustainable development through education.”

Building on the discussion around the program’s potential, Prof. Nanung Agus Fitriyanto highlighted the significance of the visit: “The collaboration with the University of Groningen could enrich the KKN experience, allowing for cross-cultural learning and the exchange of ideas. It’s an opportunity for students to learn from diverse perspectives while addressing real-world challenges.”
Prof. Irfan Dwidya Prijambada added, “Students should not merely act under the banner of ‘anything that helps.’ Instead, their efforts must align with their knowledge and skills to ensure meaningful contributions. By focusing on areas where they can truly make a difference, we can maximize the impact of their work and prevent wasted potential.”

 

UGM students also shared their reflections on the unexpected moments during KKN. One student noted, “Building emotional connections with the community was something I never anticipated. Living and working alongside them taught me about their resilience and kindness, which changed my outlook on people.” Another highlighted, “Even small actions can have a big impact. Simple gestures of gratitude from the community were deeply moving and motivating.”
When asked about the prospect of having international students join their KKN teams, UGM students expressed enthusiasm, noting that the experience would be a mutual learning process. “Even we, as Indonesians, have to adapt to the local languages and customs during KKN. Having international students join would just add another layer of learning,” one student explained.

The visiting professors had the opportunity to taste the coffee of Gunung Gambar and praised its exceptional flavor.

Supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
The KKN-PPM program at UGM aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), contributing to achieving Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth by enhancing local coffee production and creating market opportunities that support sustainable economic growth for rural communities. Additionally, it promotes Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities by fostering community resilience and addressing local challenges while leveraging the potential of villages. Furthermore, the program exemplifies Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals through the collaboration between UGM and the University of Groningen, showcasing how such partnerships can amplify the impact of educational initiatives on sustainable development.

dr. Bartjan Pennink discussed with the UGM KKN student from Subdistrict Nglipar, Gunungkidul and its supervisor about the ways to ensure their programs continue to benefit the community after the KKN period end.
The UGM KKN students, the local community of Gunung Gambar, and the visiting professors took a picture together after planting coffee trees as a symbolic gesture to strengthen the recognition of Gunung Gambar’s coffee


Looking Ahead

The University of Groningen’s visit marks a significant step toward enhancing UGM’s KKN-PPM program with global perspectives. By integrating students from diverse cultural and academic backgrounds, both universities aim to create a more impactful and enriching community service program that remains locally rooted while gaining global recognition for its effectiveness. With the program set to conclude on February 7, 2024, the partnership discussions between UGM and RUG offer hope for a long-lasting collaboration that bridges academic institutions and communities across borders.

As part of its ongoing efforts to foster global collaboration, UGM invites international students, especially undergraduates, and professors, to get involved in the KKN-PPM program. Students from around the world can join this hands-on initiative, gaining valuable experience while making a real impact in local communities. Professors are also welcome to visit UGM to explore the program firsthand and guide their students as they take part in this unique opportunity. Through participation in KKN-PPM, students and professors alike will have the chance to make a tangible impact on sustainable development while broadening their global outlook in an impactful and meaningful way. [author: bil; photos: bil; post:ZR]

Developing Innovative Technology to Achieve Good Governance in Village Administration

sdgs#17 - partnerships for the goalssdgs#9 - industry, innovation and infrastructure Thursday, 20 June 2024

The SCS-CEL team from Universitas Gadjah Mada created a Village Administration Application for managing correspondence letters in Mantigola Village. This application generates letters and sends them to the Mantigola Village’s email, adhering to the village’s specific format and sequential numbering. It also archives village’s letters and documents. The program has been demonstrated to village officials and is expected to help administrative processes in Mantigola Village.

Wakatobi, Southeast Sulawesi – KKN-PPM Universitas Gadjah Mada (Students Community Services) has developed a Village Administration Application designed to manage the correspondence letters in Mantigola Village, Wakatobi. This innovative application technology generates letters and sends them to the village’s email, adhering to the specific format and sequential numbering required by the village. Additionally, the application archives the village’s letters and documents, making it easier for officials to access and manage important documents.
Through cooperation with civil society partners, this program has been demonstrated to village officials, showcasing its functionality and potential benefits for the administrative processes in Mantigola Village. With its user-friendly interface and efficient features, the Village Administration Application is expected to significantly enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of administrative tasks in Mantigola Village. By digitizing and automating the correspondence management process, the application reduces the time and effort required for handling letters, allowing village officials to allocate their resources more effectively towards other priority areas of governance and community development.
The implementation of this technology represents a forward-looking approach towards modernizing administrative practices in Mantigola Village. By embracing communication technologies and access to the internet, the village administration demonstrates its commitment to embracing innovation and technology-driven progress to improve service delivery and governance outcomes for the benefit of its residents. This application embodies the dedication and commitment of KKN-PPM UGM students to empowering local communities through impactful technological solutions.

Author: Anugrah Sasi Raya
Unit code: SG003

SDGs 17

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Universitas Gadjah Mada

UNIVERSITAS GADJAH MADA

STUDENT COMMUNITY SERVICE
COMMUNITY EMPOWERMENT LEARNING
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Email : kkn@ugm.ac.id

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