Sukoharjo, July 25, 2024 – Universitas Sugeng Hartono (USH) conducted a Community Service for Beginners (PMP) program at the USH Auditorium, focusing on strengthening the communication and counseling capacity of Posyandu (community health post) cadres from Madegondo Village, Sukoharjo. The initiative was part of a grant-funded program supported by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology (Kemendikbud Ristek Dikti).
Approximately 70 participants attended the event, including Posyandu cadres, representatives from Grogol Public Health Center (Puskesmas), the Village Head of Madegondo, and members of Working Group IV (Pokja IV) from Grogol Subdistrict.
A Focus on AI-Powered Communication and Counseling
The activity was led by Etik Sulistyorini, S.ST., M.Kes., with team members Fitria Hayu Palupi, S.ST., M.Kes. and Nimas Ratna Sari, M.Sc.. The program was titled:
“Strengthening Posyandu Cadres’ Capacity in Interpersonal Communication Techniques and AI-Based Counseling Media Development for Stunting Prevention.”
This initiative falls under the community empowerment category within the Beginner-Level Community Service (PMP) scheme. The event began at 9:00 AM and continued through the day, featuring expert-led sessions covering:
- Interpersonal communication techniques
- Health counseling strategies
- Development of AI-based counseling media tailored for stunting prevention
Trainers provided intensive, hands-on instruction followed by interactive discussions to ensure that participants could absorb and apply the material effectively. The program is designed to be followed up with on-site mentoring at local Posyandu centers in Madegondo.
Bridging Knowledge and Practice in Maternal and Child Health
The mentoring sessions aim to help Posyandu cadres apply their new knowledge directly in their interactions with key community groups: pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, mothers with toddlers, adolescent girls, and women of reproductive age.
USH’s Commitment to Community Health Empowerment
USH hopes this program will enhance the communication skills of Posyandu cadres, enabling them to deliver more impactful health education to the public. Improved interpersonal communication is expected to bring about positive behavioral changes, such as increased compliance with health programs and proactive efforts to prevent stunting.
Additionally, the initiative encourages greater digital and health literacy among community members, empowering them to use technology in everyday health practices. This is particularly critical in reducing stunting prevalence in the region.
By involving academic experts in direct community service, Universitas Sugeng Hartono reinforces its commitment to building a healthier and better-educated society. This program exemplifies USH’s role as a catalyst for sustainable community development, combining science, innovation, and compassion.
The Beginner-Level Community Service Program conducted by Universitas Sugeng Hartono represents a strategic initiative in the effort to prevent stunting by enhancing the capacity of Posyandu cadres. By integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and effective communication techniques, the program aims to create a significant positive impact on community health in Madegondo, Grogol, Sukoharjo.
USH remains committed to consistently supporting and contributing to community service activities as part of its mission to help build a healthier and smarter Indonesia.
