Provide Assistance in The Local Community Supporting Sustainable Business
Higher education Tri Dharma (Three Pillars of Higher Education) includes community services as a part of the university’s contribution towards the development of society. In regard to UGM Tri Dharma, UGM provides various platforms to engage with the local community by assisting small and medium enterprises as well as ‘starting up’ to develop and maintain their businesses to become sustainable through community empowerment projects such as training, workshops, and digital innovations.
Trainings
Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) is dedicated to providing assistance within the local community to support sustainable businesses and improve the overall quality of life for residents in Mancasan Kleben Hamlet, Pendowoharjo, Sleman. Through targeted skills training tailored to labor market demands, the program aims to reduce social disparities and elevate the living standards of the Dusun Kleben community.
Key initiatives include workshops on the creation, painting, and artistic development of Wayang Beber Serat Kancil Kridhamartana. Additional training sessions focus on preserving traditional Javanese arts, such as gamelan music, macapat poetry, and children’s songs, empowering local residents while fostering cultural sustainability.
UGM further collaborates with the Nutrition Unit of RSA UGM and the Sleman District Health Office to introduce Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) measures for food servers and cooks at UGM Academic Hospital. This initiative addresses the critical importance of hygiene in food preparation, particularly for patients vulnerable to infections, thus supporting safer practices in food services. The 2013 Ministry of Health report highlighted the prevalence of nosocomial infections in Indonesia (15.74%), with 5.9% reported in Yogyakarta hospitals, underscoring the urgency of this effort to mitigate infection risks linked to hospital food.
To further support sustainable growth, UGM offers training programs that include both qualitative and quantitative analyses across various disciplines such as sociology, communication, management, and politics. By strengthening researchers’ capabilities through Social Network Analysis (SNA) methods, these programs contribute to building a foundation for sustainable and inclusive community development.
UGM’s Initiatives for Supporting Local Micro-, Small-, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs)
Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) demonstrates a strong commitment to empowering local communities by fostering economically and socially sustainable business practices. Through a comprehensive approach that includes mentorship initiatives, training workshops, and access to university facilities, UGM equips entrepreneurs with the education and resources necessary to drive business growth and community development.Training on Duck Farming
Source: https://pengabdian.ugm.ac.id/ In July 2023, UGM’s Directorate of Community Service (DPKM), in collaboration with the Batanghari Regency Tourism, Youth, and Sports Office, conducted a training program aimed at empowering local youth in Batanghari villages. The program focused on duck farming as a viable entrepreneurial venture. The training integrated theoretical and practical components, addressing the benefits of duck farming, operational management, feed production, agricultural business strategies, and marketing techniques. Additionally, participants engaged in field practices to acquire hands-on experience from established duck farming entrepreneurs. The program sought to enable participants to implement these newly acquired skills, thereby promoting entrepreneurial and economic growth within their communities.Digital Marketing Training for MSMEs
Source: https://jogja.voi.id
UGM’s Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB), in partnership with Creativago and the RISPRO LPDP research funding program, facilitated a series of free training sessions and mentorship opportunities for local MSMEs in Yogyakarta. Conducted through in-person workshops at UGM, the program featured a blend of theoretical instruction, interactive discussions, and practical exercises in content creation, led by experienced industry professionals. Participants engaged in modules covering digital marketing, social media optimization, creative writing, graphic design, photography, communication strategies, and consultation services. This initiative aimed to address the challenges of transitioning MSMEs to digital platforms, equipping them with essential tools to optimize operations and expand market reach. Source: https://jogja.voi.id UGM’s Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB), in partnership with Creativago and the RISPRO LPDP research funding program, facilitated a series of free training sessions and mentorship opportunities for local MSMEs in Yogyakarta. Conducted through in-person workshops at UGM, the program featured a blend of theoretical instruction, interactive discussions, and practical exercises in content creation, led by experienced industry professionals. Participants engaged in modules covering digital marketing, social media optimization, creative writing, graphic design, photography, communication strategies, and consultation services. This initiative aimed to address the challenges of transitioning MSMEs to digital platforms, equipping them with essential tools to optimize operations and expand market reach.Food Packaging Training for MSMEs
Source: https://pengabdian.ugm.ac.id
In March 2023, the DPKM organized a specialized training program targeting MSMEs in the food sector, with a primary focus on enhancing product packaging. The curriculum encompassed food processing standards, types of packaging materials, design and labeling techniques, and regulatory procedures for product registration. Participants received comprehensive technical guidance and were evaluated on their packaging designs. By providing practical knowledge and addressing common challenges, the program empowered participants to enhance the marketability and value of their products, enabling them to compete more effectively in broader markets.Training on Packaging, Marketing, and Promotion
Source: https://koranbernas.id
In Padukuhan Malangrejo, a training program was conducted to enhance the marketability of local MSME products through tailored workshops on packaging, marketing, and promotional strategies. This initiative, particularly directed at women entrepreneurs, provided skills to improve their business practices. UGM students also contributed by collaborating with the Student Executive Board of FEB and the Jetis Village MSME Forum to organize an e-sharing training session. This session, involving 30 local business owners from Jetis and Celep, focused on product aesthetics, uniqueness, and digital marketing, facilitated by expert speakers. Participants expressed optimism for sustainable business growth, while local leaders commended the program’s contribution to advancing MSMEs in Indonesia.Capacity-Building Initiatives for Policymakers
UGM extends its outreach to policymakers and legislators by offering specialized training programs on topics such as environmental impact assessments (AMDAL) through the Centre for Environmental Studies (PSLH).
Source: https://pslh.ugm.ac.id/pelatihan/
UGM offers a diverse range of training programs aimed at building and enhancing competencies in environmental management. These programs are designed to cater to a wide audience, including professionals, students, and other key stakeholders involved in environmental assessment and management. Below is a detailed overview of the training programs offered:- Basic AMDAL and ESIA Training. This program provides foundational knowledge on Environmental Impact Assessment (AMDAL) and Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA). It covers the principles, benefits, and regulatory frameworks associated with environmental assessments. Participants gain insights into ecosystem typologies, impact identification, prediction, evaluation, and mitigation strategies. The curriculum also includes the preparation and feasibility assessment of AMDAL documents, an introduction to environmental document information systems, and ethical considerations for AMDAL practitioners.
- AMDAL Preparation Training. This training focuses on the systematic preparation of AMDAL documents. It encompasses planning, execution, and control phases of AMDAL preparation, including screening business activities, developing work plans, describing project activities and baseline environmental conditions, engaging public participation, identifying significant hypothetical impacts, defining study boundaries, selecting study methods, and compiling comprehensive AMDAL documents. Practical exercises and comprehensive examinations are integral components of this program.
- AMDAL Evaluation Training. Designed to assess AMDAL documents professionally, this program delves into the evaluation processes to ensure compliance with environmental standards and regulations. It aims to enhance the skills required for critical analysis and effective decision-making in environmental assessments.
- Hazardous and Toxic Materials (B3) and Waste Management Training. This course addresses the management of hazardous and toxic materials and their associated waste. It covers regulatory frameworks, best practices in handling, storage, disposal, and strategies for minimising environmental and health risks.
- UKL-UPL Preparation Training. Focusing on the preparation of Environmental Management Efforts (UKL) and Environmental Monitoring Efforts (UPL) documents, this training equips participants with the knowledge to develop effective environmental management plans for projects not requiring full AMDAL assessments.
- Strategic Environmental Assessment (KLHS) Training. This program offers insights into conducting Strategic Environmental Assessments for regional development plans, ensuring that environmental considerations are integrated into policy-making processes.
- Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) Training. Participants learn methodologies for assessing the environmental impacts of products or services throughout their life cycles. The course includes certification options to validate proficiency in LCA practices.
- Environmental Pollution Control Training. These courses cover pollution control strategies for air and water, including certification programs for responsible personnel overseeing pollution control installations.
- Biodiversity Management Training. This training focuses on strategies for conserving and managing biodiversity, emphasising the importance of maintaining ecological balance and protecting natural habitats.
- Domestic Waste Management Training. Participants are trained in effective management practices for domestic waste, aiming to reduce environmental pollution and promote sustainable waste-handling methods.
Source: Workshop for Legal Drafting
In partnership with the Ministry of Public Works and Housing (PUPR), UGM also provides legal drafting and reasoning training to mitigate risks in policy-making. Moreover, UGM collaborates with GIZ to deliver training on remote sensing and geographical information systems for peatland assessment. These initiatives aim to enhance competencies and contribute to effective environmental and legal governance.Mentorship
Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) underscores its commitment to providing assistance in the local community by supporting sustainable initiatives through mentorship programs. In strategic collaboration with Indonesia’s Ministry of Cooperatives and SMEs, UGM has taken a leading role in the Mikro Mandiri 2024 Business Mentorship Program. This initiative aims to accelerate the growth of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across various sectors, enhancing their competitiveness in both domestic and international markets. The program, jointly launched by the Ministry and UGM’s Directorate of Business Development, actively engages hundreds of industry partners and MSMEs, emphasizing mentorship as a cornerstone of sustainable business development.
In addition to these efforts, UGM through its Innovative Academy organized a startup curation event attended by 25 startups and 40 talents. During this event, each board of curators assessed the potential sustainability of both the startup teams and the ideas presented by talents. For teams and talents who successfully qualify for the incubation stage, the Innovative Academy offers direct mentorship from experienced professionals in their respective fields. This invaluable guidance includes consultations on product development and market potential, equipping participants with critical knowledge to advance their startups.
The Startup Incubation program, organized by Innovative Academy, instills a mindset focused on identifying and validating business ideas derived from social or industrial challenges. The program empowers participants to develop solutions that address customer problems, foster sustainable business value, and achieve significant social impact. During this process, participants are trained to generate validated, actionable ideas, transforming them into marketable products and businesses tailored to meet market demands.
Moreover, UGM extends its support through the UMKM Class Series, offered free of charge, which focuses on diverse entrepreneurial themes delivered by experts. These classes strengthen participants’ understanding of sustainable food products and entrepreneurship. UGM also leads the Merdeka Entrepreneurship Programme with Techno Sociopreneurship as its central theme, providing students with opportunities to enhance their entrepreneurial competencies, managerial skills, and ability to address social and sustainability challenges effectively.
In alignment with this mentorship-driven approach, the MSME Services Unit (DPkM UGM) delivers non-financing capacity-building and business development initiatives. These services include marketing, exhibitions, workshops, equipment assistance, mentoring, and other tailored activities to meet partners’ needs, extending support for up to 36 months.
Source: https://tp.ugm.ac.id/id
In September 2023, UGM was steadfast in its commitment through the UGM Preneurs program and Business Matching event. This platform aimed to equip students and MSMEs with entrepreneurial skills and encourage collaborative opportunities. Participants engaged with business experts who provided insights into building efficient supply chains, navigating complex business environments, and sustaining growth. By fostering collaboration between academia, businesses, and local communities, UGM strengthens the entrepreneurial ecosystem, addressing challenges faced by start-ups and MSMEs, and equipping them to compete in global markets while promoting local economic growth.
Source: https://law.ugm.ac.id
In addition to training programs, UGM’s Faculty of Law hosted a seminar on business law for MSMEs, highlighting the university’s multifaceted support for local enterprises. The seminar focused on essential legal aspects, including regulatory principles, business licensing processes, and compliance requirements. With expert speakers delivering practical guidance, the event empowered MSMEs to navigate legal frameworks effectively, reducing barriers to growth. UGM’s integrated approach—combining education, mentorship, and resources—demonstrates its dedication to empowering local communities and fostering sustainable businesses that contribute to broader economic and social development.
Collectively, UGM’s programs underscore its commitment to fostering sustainable businesses, promoting inclusive community development, and supporting impactful solutions on a large scale.
Facilities
UGM through its Directorate of Community Service (DPKM), organized a landmark National Conference of 1,000 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). This event, held as part of the International Conference of Community Engagement and Exhibition at Gelanggang Inovasi dan Kreativitas (GIK) UGM, featured an extensive exhibition showcasing MSME products and research outcomes. This initiative highlights UGM’s unwavering commitment to fostering a university-community relationship that delivers tangible benefits to society. As part of its broader mission, UGM has introduced three flagship programs aimed at improving access to basic services –education, health, and enhanced sanitation.
Organise Training or Programmes to Improve Access to Basic Services
Programmes to Improve Access to Education
UGM has actively mobilized Community Service Programmes (KKN), involving over 7,000 students from 19 faculties across 31 provinces, 97 regencies, 204 sub-districts, and more than 400 villages nationwide. These initiatives include a variety of sustainability-focused projects, such as Waste Sorting Education and Ecoprint Making in Labuhan Pandan Village to support the Zero Waste campaign, eco-printing lessons and electricity experiments for students spanning elementary to high school levels, and health interventions addressing non-communicable and infectious diseases, as well as child health, in Pajangan Village. Additional programs include socialization of clean and healthy living behavior (PHBS) for elementary school students, environmental education to promote underwater life sustainability through the Green Generation Program at Parangkusumo Beach, and ‘Education Week’ activities for elementary students in Ternate City.
Programmes to Improve Access to Health
UGM has launched outreach programs to bring essential healthcare services directly to underserved rural and remote areas. These initiatives specifically target vulnerable populations, providing much-needed support for improved health outcomes. By focusing on prevention, early detection, and community education, UGM aims to address health challenges such as lack of awareness about hygiene, nutrition, and preventive care. These outreach activities empower communities to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.
A notable example is the Comprehensive Community Health Care-Education Programme (CCHC-EP), introduced by UGM’s Faculty of Medicine in the 1990s. This program integrates community-based learning and healthcare through student-led initiatives, including KK) and Kuliah Kerja Kesehatan Masyarakat (K3M), promoting interprofessional collaboration among medical, nursing, and nutrition students. Building on this legacy, the Community and Family Health Care with Interprofessional Education (CFHC-IPE) program was launched in 2013. This long-term, seven-semester initiative emphasizes collaborative engagement with family partners and local health teams to deliver holistic health interventions. Despite challenges in aligning curricula across medical disciplines, CFHC-IPE has evolved into a cornerstone of interprofessional education and public health at UGM.
UGM’s commitment to community service extends to a variety of outreach programs targeting topics such as hygiene, nutrition, family planning, aging, and preventive care. By working collaboratively with local governments, health cadres, and academic units, these programs empower communities with knowledge and services to improve their overall well-being. Significantly, many of UGM’s community service and outreach efforts are driven by student volunteers, underscoring the university’s role in fostering societal change and building sustainable solutions.
Programmes to Improve Access to Better Sanitation
The Faculty of Agriculture at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) has initiated a water resource conservation program in Nawungan farmland, Imogiri, Bantul, aimed at addressing drought conditions in agricultural areas and transforming Nawungan into a prototype of productive conservation agriculture. This program is implemented in collaboration with the Lestari Mulyo Farmer Group, a local association of Nawungan farmers actively participating in the program’s activities.
A notable innovation in this effort is the Gama Rain Filter, a groundbreaking technology developed by UGM hydrology experts. This system converts rainwater into an alternative source of clean, consumable water and has been applied by KKN-PPM UGM students in various locations, including Pondok Pesantren Nurul Huda, Serbajadi 2, Natar, South Lampung. The primary objectives of this technology are to mitigate shortages in clean water supply and promote rainwater conservation. By optimizing rainwater, previously underutilized as a potential water source, the Gama Rain Filter provides practical solutions to water scarcity.
Additionally, this technology has been implemented at the Muara Pantuan Village Office in East Kalimantan, ensuring that the filtered rainwater is accessible to all residents. The system converts rainwater into clean, safe raw water, demonstrating its potential to enhance water security and support sustainable sanitation practices across various communities.
Through these impactful initiatives, UGM reaffirms its dedication to addressing societal challenges while promoting sustainability, inclusivity, and equitable access to essential services.
Sources:
- Programmes to Improve Access to Education: Community Service Programmes (KKN)
- Programmes to Improve Access to Health: Comprehensive Community Health Care-Education Programme
- Programmes to Improve Access to Better Sanitation: UGM’s community service and outreach efforts