Bantul, April 16th 2025 – The Doctoral Program in Development Extension and Communication (PKP), Graduate School of Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), conducted a field study at Lumbung Mataraman, located in Guwosari, Pajangan District, Bantul Regency. This activity is an integral part of the learning process for the even semester of the 2024/2025 academic year.
This field study involved students enrolled in the courses “Innovation and Development Communication,” “Leadership in Sustainable Development,” and “Transformation, Resilience, and Sustainable Change.” Lumbung Mataraman was chosen as the location for its representation of community-based sustainable development innovation rooted in local wisdom.
The activity began at 07.00 AM with the participants departing from the UGM Graduate School to the location. Upon arrival, they were welcomed by the management team and received an explanation about the background, vision, and activities carried out at Lumbung Mataraman. This was followed by an interactive discussion session with both the management and the local beneficiaries.
The implementation methods included field observation, case studies, group discussions, and problem-based learning. Students actively analyzed various aspects such as development communication, local leadership, social transformation, and community resilience in facing environmental and economic challenges.
In addition, students were given tasks to prepare an in-depth analytical report and provide strategic recommendations related to innovation management and the use of local resources. The event concluded with a reflection session and presentation of findings as a form of evaluation and reinforcement of learning outcomes.
Through this activity, students are expected to gain a more contextual and applicable understanding of the theories studied in class, while also enhancing their academic and practical capacities to contribute to inclusive, resilient, and sustainable community development.
Author: Yeti Susilowati