Gunungkidul, December 11, 2025 – The Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, Faculty of Agricultural Technology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (DTPB FTP UGM), carried out a community service program in Gombang Village, Ponjong District, Gunungkidul Regency. The program, themed “Synergy of Agricultural Engineering, Digitalization, and Cassava–Sweet Potato Product Innovation for the Self-Reliance of Gombang Village,” served as a strategic effort to transfer knowledge, strengthen community capacity, and support agricultural innovation at the village level.
The event was opened by Hilda Maya, M.Sc., who emphasized the importance of academic–community collaboration in addressing agricultural challenges. This was followed by a welcoming speech from the Head of the Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering (DTPB FTP UGM), Prof. Lilik Sutiarso, who introduced the department’s academic roles and highlighted that this activity represents the embodiment of the university’s Three Pillars of Higher Education (Tri Dharma), particularly community engagement. He encouraged residents to actively participate and make use of the forum for open dialogue.
The DTPB delegation received a warm welcome from Gombang Village Head, Supriyanto, who expressed his expectations that the community would embrace the knowledge shared by the lecturers and use the opportunity to ask questions and exchange ideas regarding the development of local agriculture.
Technology and Innovation for Village Advancement
Introduction to Agricultural Mechanization by Dr. Radi
The first presentation was delivered by Dr. Radi, who introduced agricultural mechanization and the important role of farm machinery in increasing land productivity and reducing labor constraints. He explained various types of tractors, criteria for selecting appropriate machinery, land suitability considerations, and operational management. He also explored potential business models and strategies for establishing community-based machinery service units (UPJA), which could be applied in Gombang Village.
The session provided residents with practical insights to optimize land cultivation through the adoption of agricultural technology.
AI-Driven Digital Marketing by Dr. Andri Prima Nugroho
The second session, led by Dr. Andri Prima Nugroho, focused on current trends in digital marketing for rural product development. He highlighted how artificial intelligence (AI) and social media tools could be used to design aesthetically appealing product packaging and strengthen the branding of village commodities.
He also introduced basic strategies for content creation, product storytelling, and leveraging e-commerce platforms to expand market reach. Many local entrepreneurs and small-scale food producers responded enthusiastically to the relevance of this material to their daily economic activities.
Participatory Problem Mapping through FGD
The third session was facilitated by Dr. Ngadisih and Dr. Devi Yuni Susanti, supported by doctoral students from the Agricultural Engineering program. They conducted a focus group discussion (FGD) with community members, during which participants were asked to write a keyword representing their main agricultural challenges and another keyword expressing their hopes for the future of agriculture in Gombang Village.
Through the FGD, key issues were identified, including limited water availability, high fertilizer costs, pest disturbances, and a lack of access to agricultural machinery. Meanwhile, community aspirations highlighted the desire for modernized agriculture, improved productivity, better market access, and stronger price stability.
The facilitators noted that this participatory process would form the foundation for future program recommendations and targeted community assistance.
Cassava and Sweet Potato Product Innovation by Dr. Devi Yuni Susanti
The final session featured Dr. Devi Yuni Susanti, who provided a hands-on presentation on cassava and sweet potato processing innovation—two major agricultural commodities in Gombang Village. She demonstrated slicing techniques, processing methods, and various value-added product options, such as chips, flour (including mocaf), and semi-finished food ingredients.
This session aimed to increase community knowledge and equip residents with practical skills to develop high-value processed food products that can enhance local economic resilience.
Commitment to Sustainable Agricultural Development
Through this initiative, DTPB FTP UGM reaffirmed its commitment to empowering rural communities by introducing appropriate agricultural technologies, strengthening digital capabilities, and promoting value-added food innovation. The activity highlights the department’s ongoing dedication to supporting rural sustainability and fostering self-reliance through continued collaboration with local governments and village communities.
