The UGM Faculty of Agricultural Technology, in collaboration with the UGM Directorate of Partnerships & Global Relations and the Faculties of Agriculture, Animal Science, and Forestry, recently organized the SUIJI-SLP (Six University Initiative Japan-Indonesia-Service Learning Program).
This year, the program saw the participation of nine UGM students, two Ehime University students, three Kagawa University students, and one Kochi University student.
The SUIJI-SLP program commenced on Feb. 29, 2024, at UGM, with leaders from the UGM Directorate of Partnerships & Global Relations and faculties within the UGM agrocomplex cluster in attendance.
Activities were carried out in Imogiri, Bantul Regency, from Mar. 1 to Mar. 9, 2024, with guidance from Professor Shigeru Hayakawa of Kagawa University, Dr. Kazuya Masuda of Kochi University, and Professor Yudi Pranoto, Dr. Agung Putra Pamungkas, and Dr. Ngadisih of UGM. On Mar. 11, the participants shared their project outcomes.
Throughout the program, participants actively engaged with the community, assisting in healthcare activities, visiting local schools, and conducting observations on waste management challenges.
Waste issues persist in Yogyakarta, motivating SUIJI-SLP participants to raise waste awareness among locals and offer training on creating bio pore holes—an accessible and cost-effective household waste management solution.
Additionally, students immersed themselves in cultural exchanges, participating in activities like Japan Expo, eco-printing, batik making, traditional Javanese attire showcases, visits to herbal medicine centers, and learning Javanese gamelan music.
These activities underscore the strong Indonesia-Japan relationship fostered through the longstanding SUIJI consortium and SUIJI-SLP program, which has thrived for over a decade.
The SUIJI-SLP program aims to nurture future leaders with a glocal-minded perspective, equipping them to address global challenges, support sustainability, and contribute to community welfare.
Aligned with UGM’s commitment to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in quality education, decent work and economic growth, reduced inequality, and partnership for the goals, the SUIJI-SLP program exemplifies UGM’s dedication to accelerating SDG attainment through impactful initiatives.
Author: Luqlun Arghani