International Journal of Community Service
The International Journal of Community Service (IJCS) is an academic journal that publishes research and community service activities as part of implementing the Tri Dharma of Higher Education. This journal covers various disciplines, including arts and humanities, social sciences, science, technology, health, education, law, agriculture, economics, and more. IJCS publishes two volumes per year and has been registered with e-ISSN 3083-9696. The journal aims to serve as a platform for academics and practitioners to share innovations and research-based solutions for community empowerment.
Sense of Place Tourist in Visiting Banda Aceh after Conflict and Natural Disaster, Earthquake and Tsunami Site
The purpose of this study is to understand the meaning and subjective experiences of tourists visiting earthquake and tsunami disaster sites. The PLTD Apung Ship Museum in Banda Aceh serves as a reflective space that strengthens place identity, emotional attachment, empathy, and spiritual connectedness, while allowing visitors to more closely experience and reflect upon the suffering endured by the people of Aceh. This study employs a qualitative approach with a descriptive method, which is used to explore the phenomenon of sense of place in depth. Data were collected through field observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation. Data analysis was conducted interactively by selecting and condensing relevant information, organizing findings into descriptive narratives, and incorporating direct quotations from tourists to identify patterns of meaning and to interpret how tourists construct their sense of place at the PLTD Apung Ship Museum. The findings reveal that tourists’ sense of place is formed through three main types of meaning: spiritual meaning, educational meaning, and socio-emotional meaning. This study demonstrates that a sense of place can serve as an important foundation for the development of sustainable post-disaster tourism. Destination managers can strengthen interpretive and educational elements so that tourists not only enjoy the site but also understand its deeper meanings and values. The PLTD Apung Ship Museum has strong potential to serve as a model of an educational memorial destination that integrates the preservation of historical values with the development of tourists’ character and awareness.
Copyright (c) 2026 International Journal of Community Service https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Strengthening MSME Financial Literacy after Disasters as a Strategy for Local Economic Recovery
Disasters pose significant challenges to local economic sustainability, particularly for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) operating in vulnerable regions. In post-disaster contexts, MSMEs often face disrupted cash flows, limited capital, and weak access to formal financial systems, conditions that are exacerbated by low levels of financial literacy. This community service program aims to strengthen MSME financial literacy as a strategic intervention to support local economic recovery in disaster-affected areas of Aceh, Indonesia. The program employed a qualitative descriptive approach within a community service framework, combining preliminary assessment, structured financial literacy training, continuous mentoring, and reflective evaluation. Training and assistance focused on basic bookkeeping, cash flow management, cost classification, profit calculation, and the separation of personal and business finances. The results indicate substantial improvements in participants’ financial recording skills, financial management practices, and awareness of financial planning and risk management. Enhanced financial literacy also improved MSMEs’ ability to access post-disaster recovery financing and sustain business operations under uncertain conditions. Overall, the program demonstrates that strengthening financial literacy is a critical pathway for enhancing MSME resilience and accelerating sustainable local economic recovery in disaster-prone regions.
Copyright (c) 2025 International Journal of Community Service https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Enhancing MSME Business Sustainability through Simple Accounting Systems after Natural Disasters
Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) play a crucial role in local economic recovery after natural disasters; however, their sustainability is often constrained by weak financial management and low accounting literacy. Post-disaster conditions further exacerbate these challenges due to asset losses, unstable cash flows, and limited access to formal financing. This community service program aims to enhance MSME business sustainability by strengthening financial literacy and implementing simple accounting systems in disaster-affected areas. The program was conducted through a structured approach consisting of preparation, training, continuous assistance, and evaluation stages. Training activities focused on basic accounting concepts, daily transaction recording, cash flow management, cost classification, and the separation of personal and business finances, while mentoring supported participants in applying simple bookkeeping practices adapted to their business conditions. The results indicate significant improvements in participants’ financial recording skills, financial management practices, and awareness of the importance of systematic bookkeeping. MSMEs that adopted simple accounting systems demonstrated better control over cash flows, clearer profit measurement, and stronger capacity to plan post-disaster recovery. Overall, the program contributes to improving MSME resilience and business sustainability by promoting practical, accessible, and context-appropriate financial management practices in disaster-prone communities.
SWOT Analysis of Post-Disaster MSME Revitalization in Local Communities of Aceh
Aceh is one of the most disaster-prone regions in Indonesia, where recurring natural hazards pose significant challenges to local economic sustainability, particularly for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). As the backbone of community-based economies, MSMEs play a critical role in post-disaster recovery by restoring livelihoods, generating employment, and revitalizing local economic circulation. Nevertheless, their recovery process is frequently hindered by structural constraints such as limited access to capital, low financial and managerial literacy, inadequate digital adoption, and high exposure to recurrent disaster risks. This study aims to examine the revitalization of post-disaster MSMEs in local communities of Aceh using a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analytical framework. A qualitative descriptive approach was employed, drawing on field observations, interviews with MSME actors and relevant stakeholders, and an extensive review of related literature. The findings reveal that strong social capital, business flexibility, and the availability of Islamic social finance represent key internal strengths, while capital limitations and weak institutional capacity remain major weaknesses. External opportunities include government recovery programs and digital economy expansion, whereas recurring disasters and market instability constitute significant threats. The study underscores the need for integrated, community-based, and risk-sensitive strategies to enhance MSME resilience and support sustainable post-disaster economic recovery.
Community Empowerment Through Eco-Creative Skills and Environmental Awareness Programs in Coastal Rural Areas
This study examines the implementation and outcomes of an integrated community empowerment program that combines eco-creative skills development with environmental-awareness activities in a coastal rural area. The initiative was designed to strengthen local economic resilience while promoting sustainable environmental practices among multigenerational community members. The program consisted of several hands-on activities, including polybag cultivation of onions and celery, ecoprint crafting, aromatherapy candle production, and the creation of piggy banks from recycled materials. In addition, socialisation sessions on household waste management and the installation of a community waste-disposal container were conducted to address local environmental challenges. Data were collected through observations, semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, documentation review, and participant feedback forms. The results indicate that the eco-creative training successfully enhanced participants’ creativity, skill mastery, and understanding of low-cost entrepreneurial opportunities using locally available materials. Agricultural activities improved knowledge of simple, replicable cultivation techniques suitable for limited land areas, while environmental socialisation increased awareness of proper waste handling and the importance of maintaining cleanliness in residential surroundings. Participants across age groups showed positive behavioural changes, reflected in improved engagement, motivation, and a greater willingness to adopt sustainable practices at home. The combination of skill-based training and environmental education proved effective in building community capacity and fostering social cohesion. Overall, this study concludes that integrating eco-creative learning with environmental awareness initiatives provides a holistic, sustainable empowerment model for coastal rural communities. The program’s low-cost, participatory, and replicable design offers substantial potential for broader adoption in similar contexts.
Strengthening Technology Literacy for Children in Cot Suruy Village: Drone as A Creative Learning Media
The development of digital technology demands an increase in technology literacy from an early age. However, in Cot Suruy Village, children have limited exposure to advanced technology beyond gadgets used for entertainment. This community service activity aims to strengthen the technological literacy of children in Cot Suruy Village through the introduction of drones as a creative learning medium. The method used included training and hands-on practice involving 15 children aged 8–12 years. The activity was divided into three sessions: theory (basic introduction to drones), practice (flying drones, navigation, and image capturing), and reflection and evaluation. The results showed that the children successfully understood the basic concepts of drone technology and were able to operate them effectively. More importantly, the program succeeded in increasing their interest in science and technology, as well as developing creativity, coordination, and teamwork skills. This activity demonstrates that drones can serve as an effective educational medium to spark children’s interest in technology in the digital era.
Empowerment of Traditional Sports as an Effort to Preserve Culture and Increase Physical Activity among the People of Krueng Anoi Village, Aceh Besar
The Student Creativity Program (SCP) in the field of Community Service aims to empower the people of Krueng Anoi Village, Aceh Besar, through traditional sports activities as an effort to preserve culture and increase the community’s physical activity. The program is implemented using a participatory approach, involving village residents, traditional leaders, and youth groups. The implementation methods include socialization, training in traditional games (such as gobak sodor, egrang, tarompa panjang, and cak bur), as well as organizing a village traditional sports festival. The results show a 65% increase in community participation in traditional sports activities, an increase in awareness of local culture, and the establishment of the Village Traditional Sports Community (VTSC), which plays a role in maintaining the sustainability of the program. This program has successfully fostered values of togetherness and sportsmanship, as well as improved the community’s physical fitness. Thus, traditional sports have proven to be an effective medium for social empowerment and cultural preservation at the village level.
Nutrition Improvement Education for Pregnant Women to Prevent Stunting in Tijien Husein Village, Ulim DistrictPidie Jaya Regency
Stunting is a serious public health issue, particularly among children, and can be caused by various factors, including poor maternal nutrition during pregnancy. Adequate nutrition during pregnancy is essential to support fetal growth and development. Pregnant women who experience nutritional deficiencies are at a high risk of giving birth to children with stunting, which can have negative impacts on the child’s physical and cognitive health in the future. This community service program aims to educate pregnant women in Tijien Husein Village about improving nutrition to prevent stunting. The program explores the nutritional information needs of pregnant women and develops appropriate educational modules to enhance their understanding. By identifying factors that influence maternal nutrition, it is expected that effective strategies can be formulated to prevent stunting and improve maternal and child health. The activity was conducted in Tijien Husein Village, Ulim District, Pidie Jaya Regency, on Monday, September 22, 2025, from 09:00 a.m. until completion. The target population consisted of all pregnant women residing in the village. Samples were selected purposively based on specific criteria, such as gestational age and availability to participate in the educational sessions. Out of five pregnant women in the village, two were able to participate in the counseling and educational activities. The nutrition improvement education program for pregnant women in Tijien Husein Village showed positive outcomes in increasing participants’ nutritional knowledge.
Socialization of Silage Feed Production for the Livestock Group of Baroh Village, Montasik Subdistrict, Aceh Besar Regency
The Community Service Program CSP entitled “Socialization of Silage Feed Production for the Baroh Village Livestock Group, Montasik District, Aceh Besar Regency” was implemented as an effort to address the problem of limited forage availability, particularly during the dry season. The main objective was to equip farmers with knowledge and practical skills related to the concept, benefits, and techniques of silage production as a high-quality, storable, and easily applicable feed alternative. The methods applied included counseling sessions, interactive discussions, and hands-on silage production practices using natural grasses and locally available materials. The results showed that farmers actively participated in the entire activity, gained a deeper understanding of the importance of silage technology, and were able to apply simple ensiling techniques. Overall, this Community Service Program CSP contributes to strengthening farmers’ capacity in providing alternative feed resources, supporting the sustainability of livestock farming, and potentially improving both productivity and the welfare of livestock groups in Baroh Village, Montasik District, Aceh Besar Regency.
Training on the Production and Marketing of Dishwashing Liquid as an MSME Product for Local Residents
However, under current conditions, many people are uncertain about where and how to start their own businesses. Through community service activities, facilitators provide training for the community in dishwashing liquid production, which is expected to help reduce their economic burden. The continuous use of dishwashing soap has led to a significant household expense, especially among housewives in Gampong Bira Cot, Montasik District, Aceh Besar Regency. The purpose of this community service program is to provide knowledge and hands-on training for housewives on how to produce liquid dishwashing soap, so that they can reduce household expenses on cleaning products while also creating new entrepreneurial opportunities. This activity includes explanations about raw materials, production procedures, and cost calculations for making dishwashing liquid. From the activities conducted, the participants successfully produced liquid dishwashing soap according to the methods taught during the training. The results showed that the participants were able to identify the necessary materials, produce dishwashing soap independently, and improve their skills in production, product marketing, and basic accounting. In addition, the training contributed to enhancing household financial literacy and income among the women of Gampong Bira Cot.
Multidisciplinary Community Service Activities to Enhance Education and Local Culture in Rural Aceh
This community service and research program aims to enhance educational quality, cultural awareness, scientific literacy, and environmental responsibility among children in rural Aceh through a multidisciplinary approach. The activities were implemented through a collaboration between Universitas Serambi Mekkah and the community of Ujong Mesjid Tanoh Abee Village, Seulimeum District, Aceh Besar Regency in 2025. Five key interventions were carried out: mathematics tutoring, storytelling-based introduction to human body parts, cultural learning through Acehnese regional songs, cleaning and reorganising the school library, and conducting simple thermometer experiments. A mixed-methods approach was used to collect data through observation, interviews, documentation, participant feedback, and field notes. The findings indicate that the mathematics tutoring sessions successfully improved students’ engagement and foundational numeracy skills. The storytelling activity effectively enhanced children’s understanding of basic health concepts while supporting their literacy development. Introducing local Acehnese songs helped strengthen cultural identity and fostered appreciation for regional heritage. The library cleaning activities not only improved the physical learning environment but also cultivated students’ sense of responsibility and cooperation. Meanwhile, the simple thermometer experiment increased students’ interest in science and provided practical exposure to basic scientific principles. Overall, the results demonstrate that integrating educational, cultural, scientific, and environmental activities into a single community service program offers significant benefits for holistic learning in rural settings. This multidisciplinary model provides a practical and replicable framework for supporting community development and improving student learning outcomes in under-resourced regions.
Enhancing Children's Literacy and Basic Skills Through an Educational Approach in Gampong Empee Tanong
Education is the main foundation for creating excellent human resources; however, significant challenges remain, particularly in rural areas. Preliminary observations in Gampong Empee Tanong, Aceh Besar, revealed that children there face low literacy and numeracy skills, lack of learning motivation, and unhealthy lifestyle habits. The purpose of this community service program was to address these issues through a structured educational mentoring program. The activities were carried out over four days, from August 25 to 28, 2025, involving a team of lecturers and students who applied a participatory approach. The program included interactive sessions on reading, arithmetic, drawing, and hygiene education. The results showed a significant positive impact. Children’s literacy and numeracy skills improved substantially, with average increases of 39.7% in literacy and 27.3% in numeracy. In addition, students’ learning motivation rose by an average of 63.3%, demonstrating the effectiveness of active learning methods. Creativity and self-expression also increased by an average of 58.7%. The most notable change was observed in healthy living behaviors, where all participants who initially had low handwashing skills showed significant improvement, reaching the “good” or “very good” categories after educational sessions and demonstrations. Overall, this program successfully demonstrated that integrated non-formal educational interventions can serve as an effective solution to empower children and address educational challenges in rural communities.
Strengthening Local Superior Products Through Digital Marketing Strategies in Gampong Bung Tujoh, MontasikAceh Besar, Indonesia
The Community Service Program (CSP) conducted in Gampong Bung Tujoh, Montasik District, Aceh Besar, focused on implementing digital marketing strategies to strengthen the competitiveness of local superior products. The program was initiated in response to the limited ability of rural communities to market their products effectively in the digital era. The objective was to empower local farmers, housewives, and youth groups by equipping them with knowledge and skills in digital literacy, branding, and online promotion. Activities were carried out through several structured stages: socialization, training, mentoring, and evaluation. Training included the use of social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, the creation of creative promotional content, and the introduction of simple design applications for product branding. The results indicate a significant improvement in participants’ abilities to create and manage social media accounts dedicated to product promotion, design attractive digital content, and engage with online consumers. A total of 12 active promotional accounts were successfully established, and the number of digitally literate participants increased from only four individuals to 28 after the program. This outcome demonstrates the readiness of the community to adopt digital transformation in product marketing. The novelty of this program lies in its participatory approach that integrates different community groups, enabling collaborative digital marketing practices tailored to local contexts. Although challenges remain, including limited internet access and varying levels of digital skills, the program has successfully shifted traditional marketing methods toward a digital framework. In conclusion, the CSP initiative contributes to enhancing local product competitiveness while fostering sustainable community-based economic development through digital marketing strategies.
Empowering Women in Bakcirih Village Through MSME Training: Home-Based Entrepreneurship with Ready-to-Sell Food Products
This community service training was conducted in Gampong Bak Cirih, located in the central area of Montasik Subdistrict, where much of the population work as farmers while housewives are engaged in domestic activities. The main objective of this program was to provide socialization and training on the production of attractive colorful sponge cakes, aimed at motivating housewives to develop entrepreneurial skills to strengthen household and community economies. The training employed lectures, discussions, and hands-on demonstrations. The results revealed three key outcomes: (1) an increase in housewives’ skills and motivation to engage in entrepreneurship, (2) active curiosity and participation from participants during the training sessions, and (3) improved understanding of sponge cake production and enhanced motivation to contribute to family and community income generation. These findings suggest that practical skill training can significantly empower rural women to pursue small-scale home-based enterprises.
Fostering Inclusive and Sustainable Leadership: Empowering
This community service activity aimed to build inclusive and sustainable leadership through the Seminar Serantau Isu-Isu Komuniti (SSIK 2025). The background of this program was based on the urgency of leadership that embraces diversity, fosters psychological safety, and guides communities toward long-term sustainable goals. The method used consisted of lectures and interactive discussions, conducted at Dayah Wakaf Barbate, Kebun Kurma Blang Bintang, involving academics, students (santri), and the community. The results of the activity demonstrated that the collaboration between Universitas Abulyatama, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Universitas Halu Oleo, and Dayah Wakaf Barbate had a positive impact on improving students’ understanding of inclusive leadership, legal awareness, and socio-religious values. The speakers emphasized the importance of critical thinking, gratitude, and wise use of technology to ensure that it does not erode the values of togetherness. Moreover, Dayah Wakaf Barbate served as a tangible example of community care in nurturing resilient Qur’anic generations. In conclusion, this activity successfully inspired the emergence of young leaders who are inclusive, fair, and committed to community sustainability.
Understanding Land Sale Tax Obligations in Lamme Garot Village
Land sale and purchase transactions are common practices within society that carry not only civil law implications but also taxation obligations. However, many communities remain unaware of the types, legal foundations, and procedures of taxes arising from such transactions, particularly the Duty on the Acquisition of Land and Building Rights (BPHTB), Income Tax (PPh), and Land and Building Tax (PBB). This lack of knowledge often leads to delays in land registration, administrative sanctions, and potential legal disputes. To address this gap, a community service program was conducted in Gampong Lamme Garot, Montasik Subdistrict, Aceh Besar, aimed at increasing public awareness of land taxation in sale and purchase transactions. The objective of this activity was to provide education and raise community understanding of the legal requirements and tax obligations in land transfers. The program employed lecture and discussion methods, allowing participants not only to receive theoretical knowledge but also to engage in interactive dialogue and practical case examples. The implementation was supported by KKN students from Universitas Abulyatama under the supervision of a field lecturer. The results showed that participants were highly enthusiastic, as many had limited or no prior knowledge of land taxation. After the program, they demonstrated a clearer understanding of the types of taxes, the procedures for fulfilling these obligations, and the importance of compliance to ensure legal certainty in land ownership transfers. In conclusion, this activity successfully improved legal and taxation awareness at the village level and contributed to the prevention of future disputes. It is recommended that follow-up programs focus on assisting communities in utilizing digital tax systems to facilitate easier, faster, and more transparent compliance.
Culture-Based Parenting: An Effort to Protect Children from Crime
Parenting plays a critical role in shaping children’s development and preparing them for future challenges. In many contexts, parenting practices are strongly influenced by local culture and religious values, which serve as guiding frameworks for family life. Early childhood, often referred to as the “golden years,” is a pivotal stage in which children internalise values, behaviours, and skills that will shape their character and resilience in adulthood. However, social changes and the influence of technology have created new challenges that require parents to adapt their approaches while maintaining cultural identity. This community service program aimed to strengthen parents’ understanding of culture-based parenting as a preventive effort to protect children from deviant behaviours and negative external influences. The activity was conducted in Piyeung Mane Village, Montasik Sub-district, Aceh Besar, involving approximately 50 participants, comprising men, women, and youth. The program employed a counselling and socialisation approach, consisting of lectures by facilitators, followed by interactive discussions and Q&A sessions. The results indicated that participants gained a broader understanding of the importance of effective parenting tailored to children’s needs and supported by local cultural values. Parents recognised the necessity of combining affection, discipline, and role modelling in their daily practices. The documentation also showed strong community engagement, reflecting openness to continuous learning and collaboration with academic institutions. In conclusion, culture-based parenting provides a solid foundation for raising resilient, responsible, and value-driven young generations. Effective parenting not only ensures child welfare but also contributes to building a stronger and more harmonious community.
Promoting Home Yard Utilization to Strengthen Food Security in Bira Lhok Village, Montasik Subdistrict, Aceh Besar Regency
Home gardens play a vital role in supporting household food security by transforming unused yard spaces into productive areas for cultivating vegetables, fruits, spices, and medicinal plants. In Bira Lhok Village, Montasik Subdistrict, Aceh Besar Regency, awareness of the importance of home garden utilization has been limited, prompting the implementation of a community service program aimed at empowering housewives through training and socialization. The primary objective of this initiative was to provide comprehensive knowledge and practical skills that enable participants to manage home gardens effectively while enhancing household welfare. The program was conducted from August 23 to 26, 2025, involving 30 housewives and several village officials. Activities included preparation (material development and coordination), implementation (lectures, demonstrations, and interactive discussions), and evaluation (feedback and Q&A). Participants learned about soil preparation, planting techniques, integrated land use, and organic waste recycling. Visual documentation demonstrated their active engagement, collaborative learning, and application of sustainable agricultural practices. The results indicated that participants successfully cultivated mustard greens and water spinach, turning previously underutilized yards into productive plots. This contributed not only to household nutrition but also to potential income generation from surplus produce. The program’s novelty lies in its integrated and participatory approach, combining knowledge transfer, skill development, and practical application, while positioning housewives as central agents of change in household food management. In conclusion, the program effectively raised awareness, improved skills, and fostered sustainable practices in home garden utilization. It is expected that the initiative will be continued and replicated in other rural areas to strengthen local food systems and community resilience.
Household Product Innovation: Soap Education and Training as a Creative Economic Solution
The creative economy is a new economic system that emphasizes the utilization of ideas, creativity, skills, and human knowledge as the main production factors in generating added value in the production and distribution of goods and services. One promising opportunity within this framework is the development of household-scale liquid soap industries, particularly in rural communities. Such initiatives are highly feasible for housewives and young women who are unemployed, enabling them to increase household income while contributing to local economic development. This community service program was conducted in Warabo Village, Montasik District, Aceh Besar Regency, with the main objective of educating and training participants in the production of liquid soap and floor cleaner as potential home-based businesses. The program was carried out in several stages, including the distribution of brochures and written guidelines on the soap-making process, provision of raw materials and supporting equipment, demonstrations of soap production, introduction to packaging techniques with appropriate labeling, and basic marketing knowledge relevant to household industries. The training sessions applied a participatory approach, involving lectures, discussions, demonstrations, and hands-on practice. The results indicate that the participants primarily housewives and young women gained both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in producing liquid soap. They demonstrated the ability to produce the product independently and expressed a commitment to continuing production for household use and potential sales within their village. The novelty of this program lies in its holistic approach, combining technical training with packaging, bookkeeping, and marketing strategies, which distinguishes it from previous initiatives that focused solely on production skills.
Community-Based Clean Living and Sanitation Awareness at Ummi Rahmah Islamic Learning Center, Aceh Besar District: Efforts to Enhance Awareness and Healthy Living Behavior
Clean living and sanitation are critical determinants of public health, particularly in communities with limited access to proper hygiene facilities. Previous studies have shown that health education and awareness campaigns reduce risks of communicable diseases, yet many interventions focus either on theoretical instruction or isolated clean-up efforts. This study aimed to enhance awareness and healthy living behavior through a community-based program at the Ummi Rahmah Islamic Learning Center, Aceh Besar District. The program integrated classroom education, awareness campaigns, interactive learning, and direct environmental service activities in a faith-based educational setting. A qualitative case study approach was employed, drawing on field observations, interviews with teachers and students, and documentation of program activities. The intervention included classroom socialization, awareness talks, and hands-on sanitation practices supported by visual learning materials. Multi-stakeholder participation involving facilitators, teachers, students, and community members was emphasized to ensure sustainability. The results indicate that the program improved knowledge retention, strengthened motivation, and encouraged active student engagement in promoting clean living practices. Teachers played a crucial role in reinforcing health messages, while students acted as agents of change by sharing practices within their families. The faith-based context of the Islamic Learning Center provided cultural and spiritual reinforcement, enhancing acceptance and long-term relevance. The novelty of this research lies in its holistic integration of educational and practical activities, its application in a religious learning environment, and its participatory teaching model. In conclusion, the study demonstrates that community-based, faith-integrated, and interactive approaches effectively promote sustainable clean living and sanitation awareness.
Community Service Through Socialization of Simple Incinerators as Alternative Waste Management Solutions in Islamic Boarding Schools
Waste management remains a critical challenge in many educational institutions, particularly Islamic boarding schools (pesantren) in Indonesia, where large numbers of students generate substantial amounts of daily waste. Limited facilities and reliance on open dumping or uncontrolled burning often result in environmental and health problems. To address these challenges, this community service program aimed to introduce and socialize the use of a simple incinerator as an alternative waste management solution adapted to the conditions of pesantren communities. The program was implemented through a participatory approach consisting of four main stages: (1) initial discussions and engagement with pesantren leaders, teachers, and students to identify waste-related issues; (2) field observations and site inspections to evaluate existing waste practices and select appropriate locations; (3) participatory construction of a low-cost incinerator using local materials such as bricks and cement; and (4) training and demonstration sessions on the safe operation and maintenance of the incinerator, coupled with practical waste-handling activities. The results showed that the program successfully increased knowledge and awareness among students and staff regarding proper waste management. The simple incinerator provided an effective, low-cost, and sustainable solution for reducing unmanaged waste within the pesantren environment. A novelty of this work lies in integrating appropriate technology with participatory education, ensuring not only the installation of waste management infrastructure but also the transfer of knowledge and ownership to the community. In conclusion, this initiative demonstrated that simple incinerators, when introduced through collaborative engagement, can serve as effective tools for improving sanitation, promoting environmental awareness, and supporting sustainable community development in Islamic boarding schools.
Improving Elementary School Children's Knowledge in Initial Injury Management through First Aid Socialization
Primary school children represent an active age group, where playing, running, and engaging in physical exercise form an essential part of their daily routines. Alongside these activities, however, lies the risk of various unfavorable conditions, including minor injuries, fainting, nosebleeds, and choking. Consequently, children at the primary school level should be equipped with fundamental knowledge of initial treatment or first aid for injuries that may occur during such activities. Providing children with this knowledge is crucial to minimize the severity of incidents, prevent secondary infections, accelerate recovery, and in certain situations, even save lives. This community service initiative was carried out with fifth- and sixth-grade students at MIN Gampong Piyeung, Montasik District, Aceh Besar Regency. The activity was structured into several stages: it began with the distribution of a pre-test questionnaire to evaluate the students’ baseline understanding of first aid, followed by the delivery of socialization sessions on relevant first aid materials, and concluded with a post-test assessment. Observations demonstrated a significant improvement in knowledge following the intervention, reflected by an average score increase of 59.1%. These results highlight that socialization-based learning is an effective method for enhancing the basic knowledge and readiness of primary school children in responding to injuries in a proper and independent manner. Overall, this program emphasizes the importance of instilling first aid awareness at an early age as a preventive measure that can foster safer school environments and support children’s physical and social development.
Digital Financial Inclusion Approaches for Micro and Small-Sized Enterprises Development in Indonesia and Malaysia
Sinpansa Modern Market is in Gedebage district, Bandung City. Sinpansa is a market that combines traditional markets with modern nuances with the concept of a healthy, clean, fresh and comfortable market to be a society's choice at an affordable price. Has more than 117 tenants or merchants consisting of micro and small. The purpose of building this modern market is to help micro and small have good facilities to be visited by the community at affordable prices. So, it is expected that with these modern market facilities small can thrive well and can contribute to the economy. As we know, micro, small and medium-sized enterprises are the underpinnings of the economy in times of economic crisis, but a major role in supporting a country's economy, this potential will be worn out by a lack of access to financial services. This can cause obstacles to micro and small enterprises, especially in the financing sector, thus creating gaps in building the potential of micro enterprises. For that reason, the aim of this community services is to provide education on how digital finance can close the gap, so that in the end it can help micro and small thrive. The pilot project on dedication to this Society is on the coffee entrepreneur. The reason for the use of this enterprise is because it will have an extensive sales network so that use of digital financial management will greatly help to develop micro and small enterprises on the Sinpansa Modern Market.
Strengthening the Competitive Advantage of Culinary MSMEs through Digital Coaching Clinics in SINPASA Market, Bandung
This community service program aims to enhance the digital competencies and strengthen the competitive advantage of culinary MSMEs located in the SINPASA Modern Market, Bandung, through an adaptive and contextual coaching clinic approach. A total of 40 MSMEs participated in a three-month program consisting of needs assessment, training, individual mentoring, and evaluation stages. Pre-test and post-test results demonstrated significant improvements across all measured aspects, particularly in digital promotion knowledge and competitive advantage understanding. The coaching clinic model, which integrates practical training and personalized mentoring, proved effective in improving participants' technical skills and fostering an open mindset towards digital transformation. This program not only resulted in higher competency levels but also encouraged the adoption of technology and sustainable development of competitive advantage based on local potential.
Community Empowerment through Hotel Waste Management System Improvement by University Students and Lecturers
This community service and applied research project was designed to address critical issues in hotel waste management systems, particularly the functionality and maintenance of grease traps and wastewater drainage infrastructure. Ineffective management of these systems in the hospitality sector can lead to environmental pollution, health hazards, and operational inefficiencies. The project aimed to empower hotel stakeholders through technical assessment, capacity building, and collaborative problem-solving, while simultaneously offering experiential learning opportunities for university students. The methodology involved a series of structured activities, including pre-engagement discussions, formal coordination with hotel management, technical field assessments, on-site demonstrations, and participatory planning sessions. Students, lecturers, and hotel staff collaborated to assess the condition of the waste systems, identify weaknesses, and co-develop site-specific, feasible improvement strategies. Observations and data collection focused on grease trap design, drainage layout, system maintenance routines, and real-time system flow behaviour. Key outcomes included improved awareness among hotel personnel, enhanced technical competencies among students, and the development of practical recommendations for improving system efficiency. One of the novel aspects of this project is its integrated academic-industry collaboration model, where students serve as both learners and contributors in solving real-world environmental challenges. Unlike conventional outreach programs, this initiative emphasised mutual empowerment, hands-on involvement, and sustainable, locally adapted solutions. In conclusion, this project demonstrates a replicable model of community empowerment through university–industry partnership. It reaffirms the role of higher education institutions in promoting sustainable development by bridging academic knowledge with practical environmental solutions for local industries.
Community Service Program for Developing Water Pool Attractions as a People's Economic Enterprise in Rural Community-Based Tourism Areas
This community service program was initiated to support rural economic development through the creation of a water pool attraction within a community-based tourism area. The initiative integrates technical planning, environmental consideration, and local participation to deliver sustainable infrastructure that benefits both the community and the environment. The program began with a site accessibility assessment, highlighting the challenges and opportunities of remote development areas. Technical activities included topographic measurements and river flow assessments to ensure reliable and sustainable water supply for the facility. These steps formed the foundation for an environmentally sound design that respects the hydrological characteristics of the region. The outcome is a fully functional water pool facility featuring recreational amenities, local cultural elements, and environmentally integrated construction. It serves as both a tourism draws and a source of economic activity for the surrounding rural community. What distinguishes this program is its holistic, participatory approach where community members are engaged not only in the planning and development phases but also in the long-term operation and management of the facility. This project demonstrates how academic collaboration, technical expertise, and local knowledge can combine to create a model of rural development that is practical, sustainable, and replicable. The entire program was funded by the authors themselves, reflecting a shared commitment to meaningful and responsible community engagement. The outcomes contribute to advancing the practice of inclusive and community-driven tourism infrastructure.
Integrated Educational and Social Interventions to Empower Rural Families: A Research-Based Community Service Initiative
Rural communities in developing regions often face barriers to education, limited parental support, and insufficient access to learning resources. This research-based community service initiative addressed these challenges by combining early childhood education, maternal literacy support, youth engagement, and public awareness programs. The main objective was to empower rural families through structured educational and social interventions informed by local needs and participatory research. The program was implemented over a series of community engagements involving interactive learning sessions for children, parenting education for mothers, youth development activities, educational kits and nutritional support distribution, and public dialogue forums. Data were collected through direct observation, pre- and post-intervention assessments, and qualitative feedback from participants. These data informed both impact evaluation and the identification of community-specific challenges. Findings revealed improvements in children’s interest in learning, increased awareness among mothers about child development, and enhanced youth participation in community activities. The novelty of this initiative lies in its dual function as both a service delivery model and a research platform, enabling simultaneous impact and data generation. Additionally, informal community spaces for structured learning demonstrated an innovative, low-cost solution for rural education delivery. In conclusion, this initiative successfully demonstrated the effectiveness of localized, multi-stakeholder, and research-informed strategies to promote educational equity and community resilience. The outcomes support the potential scalability of such models in similar underserved settings.
Empowering Rural Communities through Education, Environmental Clean-up, and Sustainable Agriculture in a Community Service Program
Rural communities often face multidimensional challenges, including limited access to education, poor sanitation, unsustainable agriculture, and underdeveloped infrastructure. This community service program was designed to address these interconnected issues through an integrated and participatory approach involving education, environmental clean-up, sustainable agriculture, and infrastructure improvement. The main objective was to empower a rural village by promoting practical knowledge transfer, encouraging local engagement, and fostering long-term self-reliance. The program was implemented collaboratively by volunteers and residents over structured activities: informal learning sessions for children, hands-on agricultural training, public facility sanitation, environmental clean-up campaigns, and signboards and community signage. A qualitative participatory method was applied to document processes, outcomes, and local responses through direct observation and reflective evaluation. Results showed significant improvements in community awareness, hygiene behaviour, educational motivation among children, and knowledge of sustainable farming practices. The program also strengthened intergenerational collaboration and increased community ownership of public spaces and development efforts. Its novelty lies in integrating multi-sectoral interventions tailored to local socio-economic and cultural contexts, with all activities co-created by volunteers and villagers. In conclusion, this initiative demonstrated the effectiveness of a holistic model for rural empowerment, combining educational outreach, environmental responsibility, and economic sustainability. The findings highlight the importance of context-sensitive and community-driven service models that can be adapted and replicated in similar rural settings to foster inclusive and resilient development.
Community Service Outreach on Utilizing Rice Fields for Mustard Green Cultivation Before the Paddy Harvest Period
This community service program addressed the underutilization of rice fields during the idle period before the main paddy harvest. This phase is often left unproductive in many rural farming systems despite its potential for short-cycle crop cultivation. The primary objective of this program was to introduce mustard green (Brassica juncea) cultivation as an intercropping solution to maximize land use and increase farmers’ income without disrupting rice production. The outreach activity occurred in Banyuasin Regency and involved collaboration between university students, academic supervisors, and local farmers. The method involved a series of participatory activities, including organic fertilizer preparation, field spraying, mustard green planting, and growth inspection. Field demonstrations and informal discussions were used to transfer technical knowledge effectively. The results showed healthy mustard green growth, rapid crop cycles (within 3–4 weeks), and strong community interest in adopting the practice. Farmers responded positively due to the low cost, environmental friendliness, and potential for income diversification. The novelty of this program lies in its practical integration of short-cycle crops into existing rice-based systems using sustainable techniques and community-centered implementation. Unlike conventional monoculture outreach, this initiative empowered local communities through joint knowledge creation and field-based learning. In conclusion, this community service effort presents a scalable model for sustainable land optimization that enhances agricultural resilience, food diversity, and farmer livelihoods, particularly in rural rice-producing regions.
Community Capacity Building Through Renewable Energy Operator Training: A Case Study on the Installation and Operation of Off-Grid Micro-Hydro Power Plants
Access to sustainable and decentralised energy remains a pressing challenge in many rural areas, particularly regions with limited grid infrastructure. Micro-Hydro Power Plants (MHPP) have emerged as a viable solution for using renewable resources to meet local energy demands. However, the long-term success of such systems is mainly dependent on the availability of skilled local operators capable of planning, implementing, and maintaining the infrastructure. This community-based research aimed to enhance local technical capacity through a structured training program focusing on designing, installing, and operating off-grid MHPP systems. The program was conducted in Banda Aceh and employed a combination of classroom instruction, expert presentations, interactive discussions, and hands-on fieldwork, including hydrological measurements for site feasibility. Participants were engaged in active learning sessions covering theoretical concepts, technical standards, and real-world practices. The results showed a significant increase in the participants’ technical understanding, confidence, and readiness to contribute to local MHPP development. The novelty of this work lies in its integrative training model, which not only delivers technical knowledge but also empowers grassroots participants to become key agents in renewable energy deployment. Unlike conventional top-down approaches, this method emphasises local ownership, contextual adaptation, and participatory learning. In conclusion, the training program effectively bridges the gap between theory and practice, offering a replicable model for future community energy initiatives. Developing local expertise is essential to ensure the sustainability and scalability of MHPP systems, especially in off-grid regions seeking clean and independent energy access.