Yogyakarta (October 8th 2024) – The Center for Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution (MPRK UGM), Universitas Gadjah Mada, was conducting a Community Service Program (PkM) in Ledhok Code RT 18 RW 04, Kotabaru Village, Gondokusuman Subdistrict, Yogyakarta. The program focuses on empowering local youth through training in short film production. This activity is part of an effort to develop digital skills, which are crucial in the modern era. With rapid technological advancements, digitalization offers many new opportunities for individuals to create and increase their economic potential.
Short film production was chosen as the medium for this PkM program because it is relevant to current needs and interests of the youth in Ledhok Code RT 18. Various digital platforms, such as YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram, enable creators to widely distribute their work. These platforms enable content creators to share ideas, express creativity, and potentially gain financial benefits professionally.
The training was conducted in three stages: basic scriptwriting, video shooting techniques, and editing, allowing participants to practice all aspects of filmmaking. This practical approach enables participants to learn by doing, making the material easier to understand. One of the young participants, Mahesa, shared his experience: “I think the video and script writing training is really fun. Besides learning how to make it, we immediately practice, which makes it easier to understand than just listening to the trainers. They immediately asked us to practice.”
Mahesa’s comments reflect the innovative approach adopted in this program, where hands-on practice is the main focus. This approach ensures that participants understand the theory and gain direct experience in the film production process from start to finish. The trainers created a relaxed yet productive atmosphere, encouraging participants to ask questions and explore during the learning process. MPRK UGM’s Quality Assurance Chair, Dody Wibowo, S.I.P., M.A., Ph.D., stated, “We want the young people in Ledhok Code not just to be passive consumers of digital content but to become creators with marketable and competitive value. In the future, we hope they will achieve better economic benefits through the skills learned here.”
Digitalization is a rapidly growing global trend that cannot be stopped. Creating digital content, such as short films, opens up new economic opportunities while serving as an important medium for spreading messages of peace. As the volume of digital content increases, participants are learning to think critically and creatively to develop story ideas that can engage audiences and convey meaningful values. In addition to technical guidance, participants also gain an understanding of the importance of peace values. They are encouraged to be highly aware of the importance of peace and norms in the content they create to ensure that they become responsible creators who can make a significant contribution to peacebuilding in society.
This PkM activity organized by MPRK UGM aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly goal 10: reduced inequalities, goal 16: peace, justice, and strong institutions, and goal 17: partnership for the goals.
Author: Glory Prayoga V. F.
Editor: Arfikah Istari