Prof. Dr. Yos Johan Utama, S.H., M.Hum., the Rector of Diponegoro University (UNDIP), along with his team, recently visited the site where the Community Service Program (Kuliah Kerja Nyata – KKN) for Undip’s Team II of the 2022/2023 academic year was being implemented. This program took place at the Jangglengan Tourism Village Hall in Nguter District, Sukoharjo Regency, on Sunday (12/08). The purpose of the KKN visit is to directly observe the innovation outcomes and work programs of the KKN students that benefit the surrounding community.
The UNDIP Rector officially opened the event. In his opening remarks, Prof. Yos expressed that the Community Service Program is an extraordinary process where various experiences can be gained. Additionally, KKN activities have taught participants how to solve existing problems and cultivate a spirit of tolerance.
“When they gain firsthand experience of the truth of Pancasila in the field, it is the best education for them. Alhamdulillah, there has been progress, with many innovative works produced by the students,” Prof. Yos said.
Furthermore, Prof. Yos expressed gratitude to the surrounding community for warmly accepting the KKN Team II students from Undip for the 2022/2023 academic year. “Thanks to the Regent and the Subdistrict Heads who have participated in educating our students, and to the surrounding community for their warm welcome,” he said.
Representing the Regent of Sukoharjo Regency, Subdistrict Head, Sukatman, S.Sos., M.M., explained that this KKN expo is a collaboration between academia and the community, resulting in beneficial innovations and developments. “Community Service is a tangible form of Undip’s efforts to produce graduates who are not only academically intelligent but also socially sensitive and have the spirit to impact society positively,” Sukatman said.
Through the KKN activities, students have learned about the diversity, challenges, and potential of each region. They have become part of the local community’s life stories and have collaborated to design relevant and sustainable solutions. “This shows that Indonesian youth have great potential to create positive change,” he added.
Sukatman further stated that the KKN activities are a real example of how collaboration between young and experienced generations can create great synergy. “We believe that with our joint efforts and commitment, we can promote sustainable innovation that positively impacts our region,” he concluded.
The KKN Expo in Sukoharjo Regency provides a positive platform for KKN students to show the works they have produced during their 37-day course, from July 7th to August 12th, living alongside the community. The students’ work will serve as the beginning of a sustainable development program.
The KKN Expo, themed “Reka Cipta Diponegoro Building Harmony in Sukoharjo’s Earth’s Diversity,” was attended by 223 Undip students. Fifty villages participated, including 14 villages in Nguter District, 6 villages in Sukoharjo District, 9 villages in Weru District, 8 villages in Bulu District, and 13 villages in Bendosari District. (Dhany/Warnoto – Public Relations)