Makassar, May 11, 2024 — In a bid to develop education and environmental awareness, the Marine Science Master's Program of the Faculty of Marine Science and Fisheries at Hasanuddin University (FIKP Unhas) held a Community Service Program (PkM) on Polewali Island, in the Pangkajene and Islands Regency, South Sulawesi. The event garnered significant attention and involved collaboration between lecturers, students, and partners from the Health Research and Development Center of LPPM Unhas.

The activities began with an opening ceremony featuring traditional dances performed by elementary students from Polewali Island, warmly welcoming the participants. This was followed by a series of educational sessions and social contributions, including the distribution of basic necessities aimed at aiding the local community in need.

Dance by Polewali Island Elementary School students as a welcome welcome to Community Service participants

PkM participants from student elements (left) and lecturers (right) Masters Study Program in Marine Sciences FIKP Unhas

A primary focus of the event was a workshop on plastic waste management led by Dr. Ir. Farid Samawi M.Si. This workshop was crucial, considering the growing concerns over plastic waste in coastal areas. It was attended by local residents and students who were taught about the importance of waste management to preserve marine environments.

Waste management material by Dr. Ir. Farid Samawi, M.Si. (Lecturer in Master of Marine Science Study Program)

The event also highlighted education on diving health, overseen by Prof. Dr. Ir. Abdul Haris M.Si. and Dr. Syafyudin Yusuf ST. M.Si. The speakers provided insights into safe diving techniques and health precautions essential for divers in the region.

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Diving health material by Dr. Syafyudin Yusuf, ST. M.Sc. (top) and Pprof. Dr. Ir. Abdul Haris, M.Sc. (lower)

Diving safety practices accompanied by Dr. Syafyudin Yusuf, ST. M.Sc.

Education about coastal ecosystems was delivered to elementary students by Dr. Inayah Yasir M.Sc. and Dr. Yayu A. La Nafie ST. M.Sc., who explained the importance of coastal ecosystems and how humans can contribute to nature conservation. This session was highly interactive and received positive feedback from the students.

Educational activities about coastal ecosystems for Polewali Island Elementary School students

Additionally, workshops and dental checks for children were conducted by the Unhas Health Research and Development Team, proving to be a beneficial social service for the health of children on Polewali Island. This Community Service Program not only provided direct aid to the community but also instilled vital values regarding environmental and health education, and inspired students to actively participate in future social efforts.

Social service (distribution of basic necessities) to the community by Master of Marine Sciences students at FIKP Unhas

Group photo after implementing Community Service

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