Haidar, a student of the Agricultural Extension and Communication Study Program class of 2020, carried out the UGM PPM Real Work Lecture (KKN) period 2 of 2023 in Sembungan Village, Kejajar District, Wonosobo Regency, Central Java. This village is famous as the highest village on the island of Java and has a unique commodity, namely carica fruit. Haidar chose KKN in Sembungan Village because he was interested in carica fruit, which can only be grown in certain places. Apart from that, Haidar wants to gain new experience in agriculture in the highlands and enjoy the beauty of natural tourism in the area.
Haidar’s KKN team raised the theme “Optimization of the Local Economic Sector, Quality of Human Resources Based on Science and Technology in Superior Regional Products and Community Empowerment in Sustainable Management of Land and Water Resources.” This theme was chosen to support local economic development, improve the quality of human resources, and sustainably manage natural resources.
Haidar and his team carried out various work programs, including making a video profile of Carica MSMEs, which was published on social media, revitalizing and planting vegetables in the “Hatinya PKK” greenhouse with local PKK member, training in making compost from household organic waste, and developing packages agricultural tourism in Sembungan Village which is prepared in the form of a booklet for local Pokdarwis.
During the KKN program, Haidar encountered several challenges. The extreme cold temperatures in Sembungan Village, which could plummet below 0 degrees at night, posed a significant hurdle. Another challenge was engaging the residents in the work programs, as the majority of them were farmers who dedicated most of their time to their fields. To overcome these obstacles, Haidar and his team collaborated with the village government to organize programs during village meetings.
Haidar’s KKN experience in Sembungan Village was a transformative journey. He immersed himself in the customs and culture of the warm and welcoming local people, treating them like his own family. The natural beauty surrounding Sembungan Village, including Sikunir Hill, Sikarim Waterfall, Sikidang Crater, and Telaga Warna, left a lasting impression on him. This experience not only enriched his knowledge and skills in agriculture and community empowerment but also provided invaluable life lessons through his interactions with the local communities and his appreciation of nature’s beauty. It is evident that UGM KKN PPM activities are more than just a means of contributing to society; they offer profound life lessons for students.