Dari Ladang Pertanian Menuju Kemandirian Ekonomi Lewat Pelita Pendidikan

Abstract

The Community Service Program (KKN) was implemented at two locations: Ubu Raya Village in West Sumba Regency and the Kanatang Laboratory in Waingapu, East Sumba Regency. The program focused on capacity building for the community in the sectors of agriculture, economics, and education, as well as the development of sustainable livestock feed. In Ubu Raya Village, key issues included high agricultural production costs due to reliance on chemical fertilizers, poor household financial management, and low literacy and numeracy levels among primary school children. Activities included conducting outreach on producing *bokashi* organic fertilizer from livestock manure, providing guidance on family financial management, and holding non-formal learning classes for children. At the Kanatang Laboratory, activities focused on cultivating Odot grass as a highly nutritious alternative livestock feed. These activities encompassed land clearing, bed preparation, Odot grass planting, maintenance through regular watering, and the use of goat manure as organic fertilizer. Additionally, the areas surrounding the cattle pen and greenhouse were cleaned to create a safe, healthy, and tidy environment. Results showed optimal Odot grass growth with increased forage productivity; goats exhibited rapid physical growth and clean coats; and the pen environment became safer regarding fire risks and pest infestations. Overall, the program at both locations contributed to fostering food self-sufficiency, strengthening economic resilience, enhancing human resource quality, and supporting sustainable livestock systems as a foundation for inclusive and competitive village development.