UGM Community Service Program (KKN UGM) students in Bina Sejahtera Village, Kapuas Murung, Central Kalimantan, have developed an innovative greenhouse.
This greenhouse aims to boost the village’s food security through an integrated aquaponics farming system, allowing residents to produce fish and vegetables simultaneously.
The team comprises students from the UGM Faculty of Engineering, Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Agriculture, Animal Science, Philosophy, Pharmacy, and Vocational College.
Team Coordinator Rahmad Ilham Saputra said the greenhouse helps residents produce food amid unpredictable climate changes.
“The aquaponics system combines fish and plant cultivation to create a more sustainable and efficient environment,” said Saputra on Sunday (Aug. 4).
He added that the greenhouse has several advantages, including using locally available, environmentally friendly materials, reducing construction costs, and preserving the environment.
Additionally, the integrated farming system with aquaponics enables the production of two commodities simultaneously, promoting sustainability.
“Students trained villagers in fish and horticultural plant cultivation using the aquaponics system, including system operation, fertilization, and pest control,” Saputra noted.
Field Supervisor Professor Ambar Pertiwiningrum explained that Bina Sejahtera Village faces extreme climate challenges. Floods during the rainy season often damage rice crops, while drought and forest fires threaten residents in the dry season.
“Farming activities often fail here. This greenhouse demonstrates how innovation and collaboration can address climate change challenges and improve food security,” said the Faculty of Animal Science lecturer.
The KKN UGM team’s work has received positive feedback from the local community. The community’s enthusiasm for supporting the greenhouse construction is evident in its active participation in labor, materials, and logistics.
“We hope this greenhouse will increase food production and improve residents’ welfare,” said Bina Sejahtera Village Head Miswan, accompanied by resident Munji Rosikhi.
Writer: Tiefani
Editor : Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Afif