Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), through its Directorate of Community Service overseeing the Community Service Program (KKN-PPM), deployed the KKN-PPM team for period 4 of 2023 from Dec. 15, 2023, to Feb. 5, 2024.
One of the teams was stationed in Kampung Baru, Banda District, Central Maluku Regency, Maluku Province (MA012). The team in Banda recently engaged in discussions with the Regional Development Planning Agency (Bappeda) and the Central Maluku Provincial Government on Feb. 3 and 5, 2024.
These discussions revolved around the outcomes of their experimentation with the action research model Living Lab in KKN-PPM, focusing on “Accelerating the development of tourism in the Banda Neira area.”
The Central Maluku Provincial Government responded positively to the results, incorporating them into recommendations for the Central Maluku Provincial Long-Term Development Plan 2025-2045, particularly emphasizing tourism development.
This achievement reflects the team’s dedication to applying their academic knowledge to practical scenarios during KKN-PPM, actively participating and innovating in education, research, and community service.
The experiment involving the Living Lab, using an action research approach through the advocacy coalition framework in this UGM KKN-PPM unit, underscores a commitment to delivering high-quality outcomes while fostering an inspiring and beneficial environment, especially for students and the community.
Some of the experiment’s key results presented to the local government include 1) environmental conservation, 2) infrastructure enhancement, 3) economic progress, 4) social welfare improvement, 5) active community involvement and participation, 6) effective governmental collaborations, 7) advancements in tourism infrastructure, and 8) strengthening food sustainability through agriculture and marine initiatives.
Rufaidah, the Head of the Research and Regional Development Department, commended this accomplishment and expressed gratitude to all partners involved in the experimentation process.
“On Feb. 20, 2024, the draft recommendation was deliberated at the Ministry of Home Affairs and will be aligned with Bappenas, pushing it towards becoming central policy,” she elaborated.
This achievement reflects the dedication and hard work of the UGM Neira Basudara team and partners, guided by field supervisor Professor Purwo Santoso.
“We remain committed to continuous learning and improvement, aiming to contribute significantly to society and global progress through our respective fields,” stated Wiwit Subagio, a student from the Faculty of Economics and Business serving as the project leader.
The ongoing effort to establish the Living Lab will evolve into a platform for enhancing student quality through education, research, and community service. The goal is to expand partnerships and maximize outcomes, positioning UGM as a pivotal agent of change in global scientific and educational development and making tangible contributions.
Author: UGM Banda Team & UGM Directorate of Community Service
Photo: UGM Banda Team