Universitas Dian Nuswantoro (Udinus), through the Student Representative Council of the Faculty of Computer Science (FIK), is committed to elevating Jatimulyo Village into a smart village. This commitment is realized through efforts that include setting up literacy corners for the community, particularly focusing on the digital world.
This commitment, emerging through the Student Capacity Strengthening Program (PPKO), is undertaken by a team of 15 students. The program falls under the Directorate General of Higher Education, Research, and Technology (Ditjen Dikti).
Jatimulyo Village, located in Bonang District, Demak Regency, is home to residents engaged in various businesses, both personal and village-run. However, some issues have been identified, such as a lack of interest in literacy related to financial management, graphic design, and public speaking. This was highlighted by the Head of the PPKO DPM FIK Implementation Team, Dimas Haydar Anandatama.
"Additionally, there is a lack of knowledge about the digital world, health, waste management, and digital technology. After identifying these issues, we, the PPK Ormawa DPM FIK team, have developed a solution with the creation of 7 literacy corners," explained Haydar.
Seven Literacy Corners
The seven literacy corners proposed by the PPKO DPM FIK team are part of an innovative program called ‘Sapta Literacy Corner (Saterner)’. The literacy topics include MoneySpent, KreatifGrafis, SpeakUp, DigiTech, HealthCare, EcoLife, and MarketSense.
Haydar further explained that the team will develop 7 non-formal learning curricula and organizational structures for these literacy corners as part of the program. Activities will include training sessions corresponding to each literacy corner to enhance understanding.
For example, in MoneySpent literacy, residents will receive education on financial concepts and risk management for wise financial decision-making.
In KreatifGrafis literacy, training will focus on developing creativity and providing a platform for individual expression. SpeakUp Literacy will offer training to improve communication skills and confidence in public speaking.
"DigiTech literacy involves using technology to improve digital literacy and access information. HealthCare literacy focuses on understanding stunting prevention and the importance of nutrition," he said.
"EcoLife literacy emphasizes the economic potential in waste management. Finally, MarketSense literacy will provide insights into marketing products using digital technology and social media," added Haydar.
Accompanying lecturer, Heru Pramono Hadi, S.E., M.Kom., expressed hopes for the program to increase literacy interest in Jatimulyo Village, especially in the current digital era.
"Our goal is to make Jatimulyo Village a model village, increasing the community's literacy interest and broadening their understanding of the digital world. Additionally, we aim to enhance residents' competence in using digital technology to foster various innovations," he concluded.
It is expected that this innovation will boost the local economy, empower SMEs, and promote a healthy lifestyle, creating a quality generation.