UNAIR NEWS – A group of 360 students participating in the Community-Based Learning Program (KKN BBK 5) from Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) received a warm welcome in Lamongan Regency. The official reception, held on Tuesday, Jan 7, 2025 at the Lamongan Regency Government Office, was led by Regional Secretary Drs. Mohammad Nalikan, MM, and his team.
In his remarks, UNAIR’s Director of Academic Affairs, Prof. Dr. Sukardiman, MS, Apt, encouraged students to apply the knowledge gained during their studies to contribute meaningfully to the progress of Lamongan society. He emphasized that this initiative offers a platform for students to enhance both their technical and interpersonal skills while engaging directly with community life.
“Our students, representing both the social sciences and STEM fields, will collaborate with local residents to further develop their hard and soft skills,” he explained.
Prof. Sukardiman, a prominent figure in UNAIR’s Faculty of Pharmacy, also advised the students to maintain the institution’s reputation throughout the program. “We must uphold our integrity and honor in the community to ensure UNAIR students are recognized as exemplary on both regional and national levels,” he stated.
He expressed optimism that the program could lead to sustained collaborations, potentially paving the way for mentoring initiatives in local villages. These efforts could focus on developing flagship products unique to Lamongan.
Targeting key development issues
Regional Secretary Drs. Mohammad Nalikan, MM, called on students to identify and address pressing community challenges. He urged them to work collaboratively, channeling their efforts toward resolving critical issues in regional development.
He outlined six strategic priorities for the UNAIR KKN BBK 5 program: (1) eradicating extreme poverty and lowering stunting rates, (2) fostering economic growth through community empowerment, (3) improving public services via digital innovation, (4) enhancing essential services in health and education, (5) optimizing agriculture, fisheries, and livestock sectors, and (6) promoting eco-tourism, managing village-owned enterprises (BUMDes), and advancing environmental preservation.
Drs. Nalikan voiced confidence that UNAIR’s academic community could drive significant progress, particularly in combating poverty and reducing stunting in rural areas. “Educate both the local community and village officials. Let this opportunity serve as a platform for students to become catalysts for development in Lamongan Regency, particularly in its villages,” he urged.
He concluded by encouraging students to adapt quickly and form meaningful connections with local residents. “Immerse yourself in the local culture and respect the traditions of the communities you serve. Wherever you are, honor the values of that place,” he added.
Author: Khefti Al Mawalia
