Students of Universitas Gadjah Mada’s Community Service Program (KKN-PPM UGM) carried out a training session on the production of mineral blocks for livestock farmers in Widoro Village, Donorojo District, Pacitan Regency.
In addition to raising awareness about the importance of mineral supplementation for ruminants, the initiative also offers a practical and cost-effective solution for fulfilling the mineral needs of livestock.
The mineral block production initiative was proposed by the students, while the actual production process was carried out together with the local community.
As a result, they succeeded in creating a product that meets standards and could serve as a good model.
“Minerals are one of the essential components in livestock feed rations that are often overlooked. Mineral deficiency in livestock can lead to metabolic disorders, reduced appetite, reproductive problems, and suboptimal productivity,” said Mohammad Rizky Zulfahmi, one of the KKN participants from UGM’s Faculty of Animal Science (Animal Science UGM), on Tuesday, Aug. 5, 2025.
Zulfahmi explained that the KKN-PPM UGM students initially observed the livestock farming conditions in Widoro Village, Donorojo District, Pacitan Regency.
After identifying the challenges faced by farmers, they took the initiative to introduce mineral blocks, a solid supplement that can be given to livestock to enrich the nutritional composition of feed rations.
Recognizing the high demand for minerals, the KKN-PPM UGM team conducted a training session that included both educational materials and a hands-on practice on how to produce mineral blocks using locally available materials such as rock salt, water, mineral mix, and white cement.
“Farmers were given the opportunity to participate in the mixing, molding, and drying processes of the product. We were pleased to see the community actively involved in both the introduction and production phases,” added Zulfahmi.
The KKN-PPM UGM students expressed their gratitude for the full support they received from both the local community and the village government in implementing the mineral block production program.
Appreciation also came from Mahmudi, Head of Widoro Village, Donorojo District, Pacitan Regency.
“So far, we have only provided salt directly through the livestock’s drinking water, but we had never been taught how to make this kind of mixture,” he said.
Mahmudi extended his thanks, noting that the participatory approach taken by the student team was well received by the villagers.
Seeing the direct benefits of the initiative, the community has expressed hope and a desire to continue producing mineral blocks independently and sustainably after the KKN-PPM period ends.
“The community responded positively to the benefits they gained from this activity. The farmers sincerely hope that similar programs will continue as a form of synergy between higher education and rural communities. This is the real impact of KKN, in efforts to improve livestock health, reduce feed costs, and optimize livestock productivity in Pacitan and its surrounding areas,” he added.
Author: Agung Nugroho
Post-editor: Lintang Andwyna