Himagreto IPB University PKK Ormawa Team Initiates Kampung Berdaya, Improving Villagers’ Skills

The Agrometeorology Student Association (Himagreto) of IPB University through the Student Organization Capacity Building Program (PPK Ormawa) initiated the Kampung Berdaya program in Cibunian Village, Cipatat Dua Village, Bogor Regency, West Java.

Kampung Berdaya is aimed at improving the creative economic skills of the community. On this occasion, the focus was on training in making handicrafts in the form of baskets from vetiver.

The activity was opened by Achmad, one of the representatives of the PPK Ormawa Himagreto IPB University team. In his speech, Achmad expressed the hope that this activity could have a positive impact on the economic empowerment of the community, especially the mothers in Cipatat Dua Village.

“Vetiver-based crafts have high economic value. Through this training, we hope that mothers can utilize it to increase family income,” said Achmad. 

Meanwhile, the material session was delivered by Fuji, another representative of PPK Ormawa Himagreto IPB University. In his presentation, Fuji explained in detail about the process of making baskets from vetiver, starting from the selection of materials, weaving techniques, to how to give an aesthetic touch to the basket to make it visually appealing and of high selling value.

“Vetiver is not only strong and durable, but also has a distinctive natural aroma, making it very potential to be marketed,” Fuji explained.

Not only receiving theoretical explanations, participants then attended a practical session on basket-making guided by Ikhwan, an experienced craftsman in this field. In the training, he taught the steps of basket making starting from basic weaving to product completion.

The enthusiasm of the women in Cipatat Dua Village was felt throughout the activity. “I feel very helped by this training. Now, I know how to make good baskets from vetiver, and hopefully I can sell them in the local market,” said Ody, one of the participants. 

The Kampung Berdaya program is expected to provide new skills that can open up business opportunities for the community. “With the knowledge and ability to produce quality baskets from local materials, mothers can utilize the potential of existing natural resources and develop them into high-value products,” said Achmad.

This program not only provides practical skills, but also becomes the foundation for sustainable economic development, especially in Cipatat Dua Village. (*/Nr) (IAAS/SNI)