After a three-year hiatus since 2019, the Pengembangan Desa Tertinggal (PDT) activity, initiated by the Community Service and Environmental Care Unit (PMKL) of the Student Senate of Politeknik Statistika STIS, was held again in 2023. This activity serves as a tangible implementation of the Tri Dharma of Higher Education, particularly in community service.

PDT is a real manifestation of the care and dedication of the students and academic community of Politeknik Statistika STIS toward underdeveloped villages by providing real contributions to development in the fields of social welfare, education, health, and entrepreneurship. Its return in 2023 reflects a strong commitment to supporting the improvement of community well-being, especially in remote areas.

Series of Activities in PDT 2023

After a lengthy preparation process, PDT was held over four days, from Saturday, August 12 to Tuesday, August 15, 2023, in Jayasari Village, Cimarga Subdistrict, Lebak Regency, Banten Province. The event involved 72 students, both as committee members and volunteers, and was also attended by several lecturers, including:

• Prof. Setia Pramana, S.Si., Ph.D.
• Mr. Firdaus, MBA.
• Mr. Sukim, S.S.T., M.Si.
• Dr. Sarni Maniar Berliana, S.S.T., M.Si.
• Dr. Siti Muchlisoh, S.S.T., M.Si.
• Dr. Cucu Sumarni, S.S.T., M.Si.

Various activities were carried out, such as:

• Community clean-up efforts and biopore hole construction with local residents
• Distribution of basic food supplies to selected families
• Health check-ups in collaboration with Puskesmas Sarageni
• Educational sessions on waste management and entrepreneurship with WALHI and government agencies as speakers
• Teaching and the establishment of a reading garden for children of Jayasari Elementary School
• Construction of public sanitation facilities (MCK) for MI school and the surrounding community
• “Desa Cantik” (Smart Village) program
• Mini census
• Independence Day competitions (17 August)
• Inspirational movie night
• Closing bonfire night as the peak of PDT activities

These events were met with great enthusiasm from the local community, especially the closing night celebration which was attended by children, teenagers, adults, and the elderly. It is hoped that these activities not only have short-term impacts, but also empower the community in the long term to become more self-sufficient and developed.

Highlight: Construction of Public Sanitation Facility (MCK)

One of the most impactful programs was the construction of an MCK (Mandi, Cuci, Kakus - Bathing, Washing, and Toilet facility). The idea stemmed from the lack of clean water access and sanitation facilities in local households, where residents had to rely on nearby rivers or wells, often located far from their homes.

The MCK was built in Kampung Ciperang, one of the hamlets in Jayasari Village, located within MI Darul Hikam, a local elementary school. The construction took only about 10 days with the help of local workers. With the new MCK, students and nearby residents now have easier access to clean water and sanitation, eliminating the need for long walks into the forest to find water sources.

Appreciation and Hope

Deepest gratitude is extended to all parties involved in ensuring the smooth implementation of Pengembangan Desa Tertinggal (PDT). The presence and support of students, lecturers of Politeknik Statistika STIS, the people of Jayasari Village, and external stakeholders played a crucial role in the success of this event. Contributions, both material and moral, helped create a meaningful and memorable experience.

The success of PDT is not only measured by the direct impact on the community, but also by the personal growth of the participating students. Their involvement nurtures values of compassion, social responsibility, and collaborative spirit—qualities essential for shaping the leaders of tomorrow.

It is hoped that the revival of PDT in 2023 brings significant positive change to Jayasari Village and beyond. Beyond being a development initiative, PDT serves as a bridge to strengthen the bond between Politeknik Statistika STIS and the communities it serves. Through PDT, the spirit of care and dedication to society continues to thrive, driving positive social change in underdeveloped villages.

Article by: Aditya Prameswara Achmadi & Nur Retno Fitriyyah

Photo by: Divisi HPD PDT