Related to SDGs
Students of Universitas Negeri Semarang (UNNES) participating in the UNNES GIAT 16 program implemented an urban farming initiative together with residents of Patemon Village, Gunungpati District, Semarang, on Wednesday, July 22, 2026. The program aims to optimize the use of limited land while strengthening community self-reliance and food security in urban areas.
The activity began with educational sessions delivered by the UNNES Subdirectorate of Conservation, introducing various cultivation techniques suitable for small-scale urban spaces. Participants learned about simple hydroponic systems, vertical gardening, and the use of polybags as practical methods for growing crops around their homes.
Gifari Ziglar Al Bara, coordinator of UNNES GIAT 16 in Patemon Village, explained that the initiative was developed based on local environmental potential. “Through this urban farming program, we encourage residents to utilize available land around their homes to produce food independently while also creating additional economic value for families,” he said.
The program received positive responses from the community. Patemon Village Head, Muhammad Khosim, S.IP., M.M., appreciated the students’ initiative in introducing a program that directly addresses local needs. “This activity not only supports environmental greening but also provides new knowledge that residents can apply in their daily lives,” he stated.
In addition to training sessions, UNNES GIAT 16 students committed to providing continuous assistance until the first harvest period. This mentoring process is expected to ensure the sustainability of the program and improve the success of urban farming implementation within the community.
Through this initiative, UNNES strengthens its role in community empowerment while promoting greener, more productive, and sustainable living environments. The urban farming program is expected to serve as a model for other communities seeking to enhance local food security.
This activity supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 13 (Climate Action).
