Institut Teknologi Bandung

Dr. Ir. Aos, M.P., Head of the Agricultural Technology Application Program, emphasized the influx of migrants to IKN, stressing the essential need for food provision. "ITB must contribute to improving family food security and IKN food," he asserted.

The relocation of the national capital to IKN also poses the potential to alter land use patterns from agriculture to non-agriculture. In response to this challenge, ITB introduced the concept of urban farming through a community service program. The ITB lecturer team, under the theme "From ITB for IKN: Sepaku Vegetable Garden," introduced raised bed and hydroponic technology to the local community.

Raised bed technology emerges as a solution for farming in limited spaces. This method involves creating small plots elevated above the surrounding soil. To sustain soil fertility, these plots are filled with organic materials such as banana stem, grass, straw, and cow dung, supporting the cultivation of commodities like melons, chilies, and kale. ITB successfully implemented this technology in six locations across three villages, including Bukit Raya Village, Sukaraja Village, and Bumi Harapan Village.
Additionally, the program incorporated hydroponic methods for cultivating leaf and fruit vegetables like mustard greens, kale, cucumber, and bitter melon. Hydroponics, like raised bed technology, was implemented in each village.

Dr. Aos highlighted key factors contributing to the success of this community service program. Team solidarity, effective communication involving local government officials, and active participation from partners were identified as crucial elements. Furthermore, ITB engaged students in the program, with four students providing support in training and mentoring in the field, ensuring the sustainability of the initiative.

However, the community service faced challenges, including shifts in community behavior, conversion of agricultural land, and limited water availability. The transition from rural to urban living required adaptation to a different lifestyle. The community service aimed to ensure tangible benefits for the community, especially in terms of increased income and employment.
The local residents around IKN positively responded to the community service conducted by the ITB Lecturer Team. Mr. Ito, a resident, expressed the growing need for vegetables amid shrinking land availability. The ITB Lecturer Team's contribution has significantly assisted local residents in optimizing their land use.

Mr. Ito stated, "It is very appropriate that ITB is implementing it, and in line with the concept of IKN, one of which is realizing a green and environmentally friendly city."

This community service program showcases the close collaboration between ITB and the IKN community, illustrating how higher education can make a meaningful contribution to local communities. The ITB lecturer team expresses its intent to provide further assistance in 2024.

Reporter: Ardiansyah Satria Aradhana (Rekayasa Pertanian, 2020)
Translator: Anggi Nurdiani (Manajemen, 2021)
Editor: Vera Citra Utami