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,

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.

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.