Student Community Service (KKN)
Given the diversity of Indonesian society, the scientific paradigm in Indonesia must be looking for his own path or character. Building a scientific tradition that is faithful to reality Indonesian people’s life needs to be emphasized. Therefore, university does not only provide an educational function for students but also help to solve people problems for their better civilization. It can be said that Science without practice is nothing, practice without knowledge is stunted.
Implementation of student community service (KKN) which was initiated in the academic year 1971/1972 in several universities has been implemented by almost all universities in Indonesia. First of all, KKN for students is not on the program being carried out, but also on the program formation of students’ experiences and inner bonds in society. It’s very dangerous if Students who are future leaders do not even know their people. The importance of a rural orientation is solely due to the fact that 80 percent Indonesian territory is a rural area. KKN is implemented to increase relevance between higher education and the needs of the community, with the aim of providing complementary education for students as well as helping the community launch development at the KKN location held.
There are three important elements contained, namely: education, research and community service. As an educational activity, KKN deliver students to get acquainted directly with the community and their problems, and help to find solutions with an interdisciplinary approach. As a research activity, students are invited to understand and analyze community potential (with the help of supervisor lecturers) so they can contribute critical thinking on the solution. As community service activities, KKN can be medium for applying knowledge and technology, as well as the art of solving societal problems and needs. Therefore, KKN can be interpreted as a form of integrating educational intracurricular activities, research and community service by students in an interdisciplinary manner.
KKN program planning is carried out together with interested parties for community development where KKN will be held (local government, private sector, community elements) as a joint plan, so the implementation is shared responsibility of those involved in planning it. In order to be directed and bring benefits to community optimally, so it begins with the implementation of a needs assessment and preparation of data based which is a reference source for program planning and evaluation of KKN. DPL (Lecturer Field Supervisor) is expected to understand the location and condition of the community in the related area. By understanding the conditions of the field and the community first, the supervisor can lead student activities when they arrive at the KKN. It is also means to the purpose of the program becomes more effective and efficient. DPL should know culture and social of the local community service community.
Purpose and Objectives of KKN :
- Realizing one of the Tri Dharma of Higher Education, especially the public service field.
- Assisting students in applying science, technology and art directly which is related to theory so it will give benefits for people.
- Equipping students with the ability to approach the community and establish attitudes and behavior to always become more sensitive to the problems faced by the community
- Providing student learning experiences in community life and maturing personality and broaden student horizons
- Training students to learn together with the community to participate and contribute under development.
- Helping community empowerment through the application of science, technology and art as an effort to achieve prosperity.
