In a journey lasting approximately 1.5 months, 23 UGM students participating in the Community Service Program (KKN PPM) have ventured into the heart of Kendal, Ngawi Regency, East Java.
Their mission is to unlock the untapped potential of nature for sustainable community development.
Spanning two villages, Patalan (Towo and Jatirejo Hamlets) and Majasem (Penthuk Pelem and Sondriyan Hamlets), the team, under the guidance of Coordinator Sigit Bagas Prabowo from the Faculty of Philosophy, has embraced the theme “Harmony of the Earth and Life: Mainstreaming Community Empowerment through Sustainable Optimization of Natural Potentials in Patalan and Majasem Villages, Kendal District.”
The implementation of the program witnessed a strategic division across four sub-units. In Sub-Unit A, Sondriyan Hamlet initiated a digital house development program to maximize natural resources and human potential.
Sub-Unit B, stationed in Jatirejo Hamlet, undertook programs focusing on forest and agriculture management, complemented by training in sustainable community skills.
Penthuk Pelem Hamlet, the focal point of Sub-Unit C, revitalized and developed a greenhouse for medicinal plants, coupled with efforts to combat dengue fever.
Meanwhile, Sub-Unit D, operating in Towo Hamlet, mentored community members in policy-making, waste management, and creative initiatives to enhance the village’s aesthetics.
“The aspiration is to create widespread benefits through these empowerment activities,” expressed Sigit Bagas Prabowo.
Agus Priyo Santoso, Secretary of Kendal District, warmly welcomed the UGM students. He shed light on Ngawi Regency, encompassing 19 districts, with four on the slopes of Mount Lawu—Kendal, Sine, Ngrambe, and Jogorogo, collectively known by the acronym KeNeBeJo.
While the climate in KeNeBeJo was once cool, it has shifted towards warmer temperatures due to the extensive utilization of natural resources. With its ten villages, Kendal District represents a blend of developing and flourishing communities.
“Patalan Village is on a trajectory of development. Leveraging the students’ knowledge, KKN has the potential to uplift both Patalan and Majasem Villages from developing to thriving communities. Collaborative forest management with the locals promises community prosperity,” envisioned Santoso.
Beyond community empowerment, the presence of UGM students is anticipated to contribute to the seamless execution of upcoming elections in Kendal.
“As the 2024 Elections approach, their contribution is expected to foster a conducive developmental atmosphere in Kendal,” added Santoso.
Field Supervisor of Kelana Kendal, Dr. Atus Syahbudin, expressed gratitude to Kendal’s local government and community leaders for their guidance. He urged students to immerse themselves in community interactions, applying the knowledge from their academic pursuits.
“May this program in Kendal catalyze empowerment, enhancement, and the preservation of community harmony, ultimately contributing to the overall welfare of the residents,” articulated Dr. Syahbudin.
Author: The UGM Kelana Kendal Team
Editor: Ika