IPB University KKNT Innovation Students Aid Sukajadi Village in Combating Stunting Through Childcare and Nutrition Education
Students from the Innovation Real-Thematic Work Lecture (KKNT) program at IPB University have collaborated with experts from the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences (IKK) at IPB University, nutritionists from the local health center, village midwives, and Posyandu cadres from RW 08 in Sukajadi Village to conduct a seminar on child-rearing practices and balanced nutrition for toddlers. This initiative aims to address stunting among pregnant women and those with young children.
The event featured presentations on the importance of proper child-rearing and balanced nutrition, particularly during the first 1,000 days of life, which are crucial for preventing stunting. Dr. Yulina Eva Riany, Associate Professor from the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences, Faculty of Human Ecology (FEMA) at IPB University, presented the first segment.
“Stunting must be addressed starting from pregnancy. Adequate nutrition during pregnancy is essential as it affects the child’s development in the womb. Post-birth, it is crucial to monitor child-rearing practices and nutritional intake up to the age of two. This period, known as the golden age, involves rapid growth, with 70 percent of the human brain developing by age two,” she explained.
The second segment was delivered by Erna Widiana, AMG, a nutritionist from the Tamansari Health Center. She discussed the nutritional content and benefits of moringa leaves and how to incorporate them into meals for toddlers.
“Moringa leaves are a good source of plant-based protein for toddlers and can enhance brain function. However, their consumption should be limited to a maximum of 50 grams per day and should be used cautiously. Only the leaves should be used, and they should be prepared by soaking,” she advised.
The event concluded with a cooking demonstration of chicken nuggets with moringa leaves, illustrating how to utilize moringa in child-friendly recipes, led by Posyandu cadres from RW 08 in Sukajadi Village.
Lutfi Syahreza Lubis, a member of the KKNT Innovation team, noted that the seminar was prompted by the high incidence of stunting in Tamansari District, including Sukajadi Village. According to data from bogorkab.go.id, as of February 2024, approximately 112 out of 788 toddlers in Sukajadi are affected by stunting.
“Discussions with Posyandu cadres and village midwives revealed that the primary causes of stunting in Sukajadi are incorrect childcare practices and inadequate nutrition. This motivated the KKNT Innovation students from IPB University to organize this event,” he explained.
He hopes that the seminar will lead to better childcare practices and balanced nutrition among mothers, and that, in the long term, the incidence of stunting in the village will decrease.
“By reducing stunting through improved childcare and balanced nutrition, we aim to enhance the welfare and health of children in Sukajadi Village, supporting the achievement of the SDGs by 2030,” concluded Lutfi. (*/Rz) (IAAS/RUM)
