Universitas Kristen Duta Wacana (UKDW) Yogyakarta recently conducted an audience and evaluation session for its thematic program on inclusivity and waste management with the Sedayu Sub-district government. The event, held on Wednesday, November 20, 2024 at the Sedayu Sub-district Hall, provided an important opportunity to reflect on the program’s achievements and outline steps for its continued success.
Freddy Marihot Rotua Nainggolan, Head of UKDW’s Institute for Research and Community Service (LPPM), explained that the initiative integrates research, teaching, and community engagement.
“This program, Designing Innovation in Inclusive Waste Management in Sedayu Sub-district, is also supported by the United Board for Christian Higher Education in Asia, based in Hong Kong,” Freddy said.
The project, which included a Thematic Community Service Program (KKN) held in July, saw the participation of around 30 students, who spent a month living within the community. Faculty members also contributed through research and service, focusing on waste management education, empowering people with disabilities, and bridging generational gaps in community participation.
The program featured various activities, including eco-enzyme production workshops, waste bank management education, and disability community empowerment. UKDW collaborated with the Forum Keluarga Difabel Pinilih, a community organization dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities, as well as local communities, to ensure the program had a direct, positive impact, particularly for vulnerable groups.
Ida Ayu Triastuti, a UKDW Medical Faculty lecturer involved in the program, shared insights into the students’ experiences. “Initially, many students were nervous to interact with children with Down syndrome. However, this experience expanded their perspectives and helped them develop greater empathy,” she said.
The program also highlighted challenges to its sustainability, particularly the low participation of younger generations in waste bank management, which is mostly managed by the elderly. In response, UKDW has developed interactive, technology-based games to engage younger audiences in a more appealing way.
Sedayu Sub-district Head Anton Yulianto commended UKDW for tailoring the program to the community’s needs. He emphasized that the initiative aligns with Bantul Regency’s priorities, particularly in environmental management and waste reduction, while also supporting an inclusive Bantul.
The event was attended by village heads and representatives from Argodadi, Argorejo, Argosari, and Argomulyo, as well as the Sedayu Sub-district office staff and representatives from the Pinilih community. UKDW gathered valuable feedback from local partners, which will be vital in shaping the program’s future.
A major takeaway was the importance of ensuring the program’s sustainability, expanding the KKN’s coverage, and strengthening coordination with local communities to maximize its impact.
The program has received positive feedback from government officials, disability advocacy communities, and the broader community. Stakeholders expressed their hope that the initiative will continue and serve as a model for collaboration between higher education institutions and local communities in addressing environmental and empowerment issues.
With continued support, UKDW is optimistic that the program will foster a more inclusive and sustainable environment in Sedayu. [drr]