For 50 days, Ian Satya Lusanto and Endang Setyoasih, students from the Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness Study Program, Faculty of Agriculture UGM, carried out their Kuliah Kerja Nyata (KKN) or community service in Karatung Tengah Village, Nanusa District, Talaud Islands Regency. In this remote area, they explored the village’s agro-maritime potential and worked to elevate the creative economy and tourism based on community empowerment to achieve sustainable welfare.
Their KKN theme focused on the Optimization of Agro-Maritime Potential through Creative Economy and Tourism Based on Community Empowerment. Amidst the natural beauty and hospitality of the local residents, Ian and Endang directed their efforts toward revitalizing the village garden, analyzing farming businesses, utilizing home gardens, and conducting socialization on organic fertilizer production.
One of the most memorable moments for them was when they undertook the revitalization of the long-abandoned village garden. The garden was overgrown with wild plants that needed to be cleared. Together with the local residents, they rebuilt the garden, prepared the land, and planted new, more productive crops. This process was not only physically challenging but also gave them a deeper understanding of the value of cooperation and perseverance.
The biggest challenge they faced was the limited telecommunications signal. In this village, signals were only available in certain spots and mainly during nighttime hours. However, this challenge actually strengthened their bonds with the community as they spent more time together without digital distractions.
The work programs they implemented had a positive impact on the local community, especially in increasing knowledge about organic fertilizer production. The community’s enthusiasm was palpable, particularly when they participated in land cultivation and the socialization sessions held. They also collaborated with the village government, which provided full support for their activities.
The KKN experience in Karatung Tengah Village became a valuable lesson for Ian and Endang. They learned to appreciate simple things, such as telecommunications signals, and realized the importance of communication and direct engagement with the community. This experience became an unforgettable memory, and they highly recommend other students seeking a different and profound experience to undertake KKN in 3T regions (Frontier, Outermost, and Disadvantaged areas). These places offer experiences that cannot be found elsewhere.
From this KKN activity, significant relevance to several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) can be identified. For example, SDG 1: No Poverty, which is reflected in efforts to enhance the creative economy and more productive land management. Additionally, SDG 2: Zero Hunger, which was addressed through the sustainable organic fertilizer production program, aimed at increasing local food production. Finally, SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, which is exemplified by the effort to revitalize the village garden as a productive and sustainable green space.
Author: Adhika Hafizh Prasada, S.P.
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