Banda Aceh, September 24, 2024 – Under the Social and Community Department (SOSMAS) of the Informatics Student Association, FMIPA USK, students part of the “Informatics Dedication (DETIK)” expedition successfully completed their community service on Indonesia’s westernmost island. The service destination was in Paya Seunara Village, located in Sukakarya District, Sabang City. During the period from August 21 to 25, 2024, this initiative made a valuable contribution under the theme “Digital Heroes: Inspiring and Mobilizing Communities through Technology.” With a spirit of community service, Informatics students united to bridge technology with human values. This effort is a tangible manifestation of inclusive technological benefits. Beyond honing technical skills, the initiative also fostered empathy and the spirit of teamwork among the students, proving that Informatics students not only excel in technology but also strengthen mutual care and readiness to help others.
Wednesday (August 21, 2024) – The event was officially opened at Building A, 3rd floor of FMIPA USK, with the DETIK committee’s departure marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony conducted by Mr. Zulfan, S.Si., M.Sc., Secretary of the Informatics Department. Afterward, the expedition students set sail to Sabang from Ulee Lheue Port. Upon arrival in Paya Seunara Village, they were warmly welcomed by the Village Head and local residents. The welcoming ceremony began with a Quranic recitation by Farhanul Khair, followed by speeches from the Committee Chairman and the Village Head. Symbolic gifts were exchanged, including a traditional Acehnese sash from the Village Head to the Secretary General of HMIF, Muhammad Ichsan, and an Aceh rencong pin given to the Chairman of DETIK. This event served not only as a meet-and-greet with the village leadership but also as a gesture of appreciation for the students’ dedication to the community’s well-being.
Thursday (August 22, 2024) – The expedition team enthusiastically visited SD Negeri 19 Sabang, embarking on a journey that offered unforgettable experiences. The main objective was to deliver lessons that were both useful and enjoyable. The teaching was divided into three groups: grades 1 to 3 received CALISTUNG (basic counting skills), grades 4 to 6 were taught English, and the teachers were provided with IT training, including an introduction to Canva. The day began with an opening led by the MC, followed by engaging activities designed by the team. The highlight came when students participated in interactive learning and hands-on sessions. The day concluded with prizes for active students, certificates of participation, and a group photo session with the teachers and students of SD Negeri 19 Sabang, as well as the expedition team.
That afternoon, the committee invited village children to join in various fun activities. They returned to SD Negeri 19 Sabang to engage children in educational games such as quizzes, jump rope for the girls, and football for the boys. The activities ran smoothly, creating an atmosphere of joy and excitement among the children. Awards were also given to high-achieving students in the quiz competition as a form of appreciation for their participation.
Friday (August 23, 2024) – After Friday prayers, the male committee members worked together to prepare the village field for the 17th Independence Day competition, scheduled for the next day. Meanwhile, in the afternoon, the female committee members headed to the village field to socialize with local women. They introduced an application they had developed called SI-T (Hypertension Information System), which provides tips for preventing hypertension and information on blood pressure measurement. They also introduced the Anti-Hypertension Movement, which includes natural remedies like using betel leaves. This activity went smoothly and brought joy and enthusiasm among the local women, as it was specifically designed for them.
Saturday (August 24, 2024) – The expedition team, along with Informatics faculty members, visited SMA Negeri 2 Sabang to conduct a campus and program outreach event. The event was opened by MCs Ahmad Syah Ramadhan and Alhusna Hanifah, followed by a speech from the Event Chairman, T. Farhan Syah. The program concluded with a speech from the Vice Principal of SMA Negeri 2 Sabang, who welcomed the collaboration between Informatics students and the school. The event’s highlight was the awarding of plaques and prizes to active students who could answer questions related to the material presented by the lecturers. The entire student body participated, symbolizing the spirit of collaboration in this activity.
The campus outreach was delivered by HMIF’s Vice Chairman I, Muatta Muhariq, and the program outreach by the Chairman of HMIF, Ardian. This session aimed to provide information about campus life, rules, and services available to the students of SMA Negeri 2 Sabang. The event was enthusiastically received, and a Q&A session followed, allowing students to ask questions.
Next, a seminar on AI and Robotics titled “Internet Ethics” was delivered by Informatics lecturer Mr. Dwipa Junika Putra. He provided an inspiring and insightful presentation on proper online conduct, explaining the dos and don’ts of internet use.
Afterward, certificates were handed out, followed by a group photo with the teachers of SMA Negeri 2 Sabang, Informatics lecturers, students, and the expedition team.
In the evening, the DETIK committee attended the closing ceremony at the Keuchik Hall near their residence. The event was opened by the MC, with remarks from the Committee Chairman and impressions shared by the Secretary of Paya Seunara Village.
Sunday (August 25, 2024) – The team enthusiastically continued their journey, exploring several tourist attractions in Sabang. At 5:00 PM, the expedition team sailed back to Banda Aceh.
This community service is expected to enhance the human resources in Paya Seunara Village by engaging various age groups in creative and educational activities. Beyond providing a meaningful experience for the local residents, the event is also hoped to be the start of a series of sustainable programs under the leadership of HMIF.
By: Nazwa Salsabila – HMIF FMIPA USK
