IPB University KKNT Students Initiate GORASI Activities with Jati Village Residents

IPB University students Aji, Roi, Khusnita, Dyka, Ary, Nabiila, Yaya, Sindri, Irgi, and Bilal conducted an Innovation Real-Thematic Work Lecture (KKNT) in Jati Village, Bojongpicung District, Cianjur Regency. They initiated the “GORASI” activity or Gotong Royong Rawat Irigasi.

The GORASI activity involves the active participation of Jati Village residents, the local Youth Organisation, and in collaboration with Mitra Cai Jati Village. Having the largest rice field area in the sub-district, Jati Village has significant irrigation needs, so GORASI is a very relevant initiative.

In response to the deteriorating condition of irrigation due to siltation and household waste, the Chief of Jati Village, Tedi Mulyadi said, “The urgency of maintaining irrigation channels in Jati Village is one of the focuses of problem solving in Jati Village. Smooth irrigation is needed to fulfil the needs of irrigating rice fields in Jati Village,” said Tedi.

Aji, one of the members of KKNT Innovation IPB University said, before implementing GORASI, KKNT students conducted research and interviews with related parties. This step was taken to gain a deep understanding of irrigation problems, so that students could design effective maintenance strategies.

“This activity not only aims to clean the irrigation from siltation and plastic waste, but also as a forum to establish friendship between residents. The active involvement of the community in GORASI is expected to increase environmental awareness and togetherness in maintaining the sustainability of the village,” said Aji.

Aji continued, in addition to direct maintenance through GORASI, KKNT IPB University students also installed bar screens on the channels to facilitate maintenance and sustainability of irrigation channels in Jati Village.

“We hope that GORASI is not just a temporary activity, but the beginning of a positive change in efforts to preserve the environment and maintain water resources in Jati Village and together build a clean, healthy and sustainable environment,” he said.

Chairman of the Jati Village Youth Organisation, Dani Koswara, expressed his gratitude. “I thank the IPB Innovation KKN-T students, I hope this activity can become a useful habit for Jati Village,” he said. (IAAS/RUM)