UNDIP, Semarang (July 12, 2025) – Universitas Diponegoro (UNDIP), through its Thematic Community Service Program (Kuliah Kerja Nyata Tematik or KKN-T), continues to demonstrate its active role in empowering rural communities. In Kebondowo Village, Banyubiru District, Semarang Regency, this year’s KKN brings together students from various academic disciplines alongside eight UNDIP professors. The initiative exemplifies the university’s real-world contribution to sustainable development rooted in science and technology.
Themed around strengthening food security and promoting environmentally friendly living, the KKN program in Kebondowo Village is designed to help local communities harness their potential and improve overall quality of life. A range of integrated activities are carried out, including education, outreach, mentoring, technical training, and on-the-ground implementation.
One key activity was the release of thousands of Nilem (Osteochilus vittatus) and Tawes (Barbonymus gonionotus) fish fingerlings into the Rawa Pening waters on July 12, 2025. This effort aims to bolster the local supply of protein, maintain aquatic ecosystem balance, and support the sustainability of traditional fisheries.
In addition, students and faculty supervisors installed solar-powered lighting across seven sub-villages in Kebondowo. The use of renewable energy not only improves night-time activities for residents but also serves as an educational tool on eco-friendly technology and raises awareness of global warming and climate change.
The KKN team also addressed waste management through a participatory household waste program. By organizing community groups and conducting workshops, locals were encouraged to sort, process, and recycle waste into valuable and marketable products.
On the socio-economic front, students and professors provided support to fishermen, farmers, livestock breeders, agricultural product processors, homemakers, and children. Activities included training in productivity improvement, business management, family nutrition education, mental health awareness, and instilling environmental stewardship from an early age.
The involvement of senior professors from various faculties reflects UNDIP’s deep commitment to helping solve real community issues. Among the participating professors were:
- Prof. Dr. Ir. Heru Prastawa, DEA (Faculty of Engineering)
- Prof. Dr. Meidiana Dwidiyanti, S.Kp., M.Sc. (Faculty of Medicine)
- Prof. Dr. Ir. Endang Purbowati, M.P. (Faculty of Animal and Agricultural Sciences)
- Prof. Ro’fah Setyowati, S.H., M.H., Ph.D. (Faculty of Law)
- Prof. Dr. Fifiana Wisnaeni, S.H., M.Hum. (Faculty of Law)
- Prof. Dr. Ir. R. Rizal Isnanto, S.T., M.M., M.T., IPU, ASEAN Eng. (Faculty of Engineering)
- Prof. Bagus Hario Setiadji, S.T., M.T., Ph.D. (Faculty of Engineering)
- Prof. Dr. Dian Wijayanto, S.Pi., M.M., M.S.E. (Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences)
UNDIP’s thematic KKN program in Kebondowo Village aims to transform the village into a greener, more food-secure community through interdisciplinary collaboration and comprehensive solutions to rural development challenges. Looking ahead, UNDIP is committed to expanding similar models across other regions as part of its dedication to fulfilling the Tri Dharma of Higher Education.