UNAIR NEWS – Development of urban agriculture movement, especially in Surabaya, still needs improvements. One of them is through Urban Farming. This can improve the economic independence of community through family plants. Dr. Hanik Endang Nihayati, S.Kep, Ns, M.Kep, Universitas Airlangga Faculty of Nursing (FKp) Lecturer, gave a presentation on Urban Farming activities in RW 5 of Pacar Kembang on Sunday, September 9.

The activity titled “Urban Farming Development for PKK Group for Green Pacar Kembang ” was pioneered by FKp UNAIR Mental and Community Health Department. It was attended by 50 PKK members, each 2-3 people from 20 local RTs (Neighborhood Units).

Urban Farming is a concept that utilizes a narrow space and yard of the house by growing plants giving solution and strengthening food security. Urban Farming is the solution to providing healthy food and lifestyle for Surabaya residents.

The activity was carried out in the framework of community service. It was also developed through the PKK so that it could transmit knowledge to other family members, especially to children.

Having been held since April, the activities include dissemination, trial, implementation, evaluation and harvesting. During the implementation, PKK members were trained to plant such as with a hydroponic system. It grows plants by utilizing water without using soil by emphasizing the nutritional needs of plants.

Another way is to plant in pots from recycled materials such as cans, bottles and tubs(dipper). PKK members were happy because they planted it accompanied with yells, singing and dancing together.

For the implementation of these activities, Dr. Hanik hoped that the movement will be able to increase the independence and welfare of the community. Each family is expected to be able to present food nutrition through plants at home. The biggest impact is the green and beautiful environment.

“In addition, it is also to make Pacar Kembang as Urban Farming Icon in Surabaya,” she said.

“In 2016, Pacar Kembang urban community received the Green and Clean category for beginners in Surabaya. In 2017, from the same competition, it got Innovative development award. And it is expected that in 2018, we will get advanced categories, ” she added. (*)

Author: Faris Ilham R

Editor: Feri Fenoria Rifa’i