UNAIR NEWS – The delegation of the World University Association for Community Development (WUACD) from Universitas Airlangga, Indonesia and Avinashilingam Institute for Home Science and Higher Education for Women, India joined hands in an international community service. The program was held on Wednesday, November 22, 2023, in Kertosari Village, Banyuwangi, Indonesia covering issues such as health, environment, and community empowerment.
The delegation members engaged in a multifaceted program that not only left an indelible mark on the village but also fostered meaningful connections between academia and the local populace. Kertosari Village, the recipient of the prestigious national-level Climate Village Program (Proklim) award, served as the ideal backdrop for the delegation’s mission. A guided tour allowed participants to witness firsthand the village’s innovative approaches to environmental conservation, including sustainable water sources, maggot cultivation, and eco-friendly waste management systems. Beyond environmental considerations, the delegation extended hands to the residents. Free health check-ups were provided, ensuring that the well-being of the community remained a top priority.
Prof. CA Kalpana from the Avinashilingam Institute commended the village for its commitment to a clean and healthy environment while emphasizing the crucial link between a clean environment and a nourishing lifestyle. She emphasized the importance of mindful eating and shared insights into maintaining a healthy lifestyle through balanced nutrition.
“Food is important, but we must be mindful of what we consume,” she stated.
She also emphasized the correlation between dietary choices and prevalent health issues such as diabetes, obesity, and cancer. The professor’s advice extended beyond mere dietary guidance, incorporating practical tips for cultivating sustainable habits.
“Eating too much sugar increases the risk of obesity and diabetes. We shouldn’t sleep after eating because it could result in stomach bloating,” she said.
Prof. Kalpana said regular consumption of vegetables and avoiding soft drinks will prevent sickness.
She also shared tips for healthy eating habits, such as eating in a seated position in mindful manner, without getting distracted from the TV or phone, eating slowly for over 20 minutes, and stopping when feeling full.
Prof. Kalpana said consuming vegetables and reducing packaged drinks will prevent us from getting sick. She also provides tips for eating regularly, such as eating in a seated position, eating without watching TV, eating slowly for over 20 minutes, and stopping when you are full.
The service initiative wasn’t confined to the village limits. Participants contributed to the well-being of the community by heading to Cemara Beach. Here, they embarked on a clean-up campaign, demonstrating their commitment to environmental stewardship. Simultaneously, the delegation engaged in community outreach, fostering connections and sharing knowledge.
In fostering international collaboration, UNAIR WUACD continues to exemplify the power of academia in driving positive change at the grassroots level. The echoes of this impactful community service initiative resonate not only within Kertosari Village but serve as a testament to the transformative potential of global academic partnerships.
Author: Khefti Al Mawalia
