UNS – The Central Java Provincial Government has joined forces with Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) Surakarta. Together, they have launched the innovative Empowered District (Kecamatan Berdaya) program. The Office for Women’s Empowerment, Child Protection, Population Control, and Family Planning (DP3AKB) is implementing this initiative.
The launch event took place at UNS Tower on Tuesday (15/4/2025). It marked the first step in realizing the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The MoU was the Rector of UNS and the Governor of Central Java had previously signed.
This collaboration aims to empower communities and provide protection for women, children, and people with disabilities. It also encourages youth creativity. The program will highlight its official launch by opening the Women and Child Protection House on April 23, 2025, in celebration of Kartini Day.
Empowering Communities Through Education and Innovation
According to Dra. Retno Sudewi, Apt., M.Si., M.M., Head of DP3AKB, the initiative aligns with the values of Tri Dharma Perguruan Tinggi. These values include research, education, and community service.
“We hope this partnership with UNS will support the success of the program through thematic community service programs (KKN Tematik). It will also include other academic contributions,” Retno said.
She added that the Empowered District program will focus on empowering target groups. These groups include women, children, persons with disabilities, and creative youth. The program has selected Jebres District, where UNS is located, as the pilot area for implementation.
“Each regency will have an Empowered District, complete with a Women and Child Protection House and a sports center. These facilities will promote creative growth among youth, empower women, and support children with disabilities. Through research and community service, UNS can help us maximize the impact of this initiative,” she explained.
Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration for Sustainable Development
Representatives from 12 provincial offices, local government officials (Forkopimda), and UNICEF attended the event. Lecturers from the Faculty of Law and the Faculty of Psychology at UNS were also present to support the initiative.
Dr. Phil Wahid Abdurrahman, Vice Chair of the Central Java Regional Development Acceleration Team (TPPD), shared remarks. He described the collaboration as a strong example of stakeholder synergy. He emphasized its role in supporting the governor’s priority programs.
Dr. Andina Elok Puri Maharani, S.H., M.H., a lecturer from the Faculty of Law at UNS and a TPPD member, also stressed the critical role of universities. She highlighted the importance of paralegal training, digital literacy education, and psychological services. These elements are essential in supporting the Women and Child Protection House.
In conclusion, the government and stakeholders expected the Empowered District program to generate a positive social impact. It aims to enhance community empowerment and protection. It serves as a collaborative model that can be replicated across other regions in Indonesia.
HUMAS UNS
