Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB) has once again demonstrated its significant contribution to national development through a strategic collaboration with the Ministry of Villages, Development of Disadvantaged Regions, and Transmigration (Kemendesa PDTT). This time, the primary focus is accelerating the achievement of Rural Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through an approach based on Appropriate Technology in 3T (frontier, remote, and underdeveloped) regions of Eastern Indonesia.

This collaboration serves as a flagship effort to improve the quality of life in rural communities by integrating science and technology. The program focuses not only on infrastructure development but also on human resource development as a long-term investment for rural sustainability.

The initiative is supported by the Desanesha application, designed by ITB to assist village heads in reporting real-time conditions related to the Rural Development Index (IDM). Through this app, problems faced by rural communities can be directly communicated to ITB experts for appropriate technology-based solutions.

ITB, through its various faculties and schools, has designed community service programs characterized by scientific excellence and technological innovation, including:

1. Water exploration and clean drinking water technology
2. Internet connectivity to support rural digitalization
3. Sustainable electricity resource development
4. Agricultural technology and human resource development

Several faculty members from the Faculty of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering (FTMD) involved in the 2024 community service program include:

1. Nutcracker Technology by Indria Herman, S.T., M.T., Ph.D.

This project in Kapiran Meo, Malaka, East Nusa Tenggara, focuses on developing an appropriate technology-based nutcracker. The solution is designed to increase the productivity of local farmers while supporting SDG 15: Life on Land.

2. Digital Rural Development by Dr. Khairul Ummah, S.T., M.T.

This program involves providing internet and electricity connectivity in Nabaheng Village, Southeast Maluku. By creating connected rural areas, this initiative supports SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.

3. Marine Fish Management and Preservation by Jooned Hendrarsakti, Ph.D.

This project in Yeisowo Village, Central Halmahera, North Maluku, introduces more efficient and environmentally friendly fish processing technologies. The initiative contributes to SDG 13: Climate Action.

4. Fishing Equipment by Dr. Ir. Sri Raharno, S.T., M.T.

This project aims to provide fishing equipment to support the salted fish processing industry in Kabetan Village, Toli Toli, Central Sulawesi. Using a technology-based approach, it helps the local community create greater economic opportunities while contributing to SDG 13: Climate Action.

Through the application of appropriate technology, communities are encouraged to become more self-reliant, improve their economic well-being, and maintain environmental sustainability.

This collaboration highlights ITB’s pivotal role as a leading higher education institution in Indonesia, excelling not only in research but also in making tangible contributions to rural community development across the nation.

By synergizing with Kemendesa PDTT, this program becomes a strategic step toward turning Rural SDGs from vision into reality for communities in 3T areas of Indonesia.