As part of a community-based learning program, 91 students and four lecturers from the Social Studies Education Program, Faculty of Social Sciences, Universitas Negeri Semarang (UNNES), conducted a field study titled “Kajian Fenomena Sosial I” at the Banyu Bening Rainwater School in Yogyakarta on October 15, 2025. This activity served as an experiential learning platform emphasizing environmental conservation and the preservation of local wisdom.
The group was warmly welcomed by the founder of the Rainwater School, who introduced the concept of “A school by the people, for the people” — a community-based educational initiative that utilizes rainwater as a source of life and a symbol of human–nature harmony. The accompanying lecturers expressed appreciation for the reception, emphasizing that the activity aligns with UNNES’s identity as a conservation-oriented university. “Students are encouraged to learn directly from communities that practice water conservation in simple yet impactful ways,” one lecturer explained.
The event commenced with the singing of the national anthem Indonesia Raya, followed by a collective prayer and an introduction to the rainwater management system developed by the Banyu Bening community. Students then participated in interactive discussions on rainwater utilization, covering topics such as purification processes, community acceptance, and the socio-cultural aspects of sustainable water use. The hosts explained that the success of rainwater conservation is not merely technological but also rooted in ecological awareness and a transformative mindset toward nature.
During the practical session, students learned about the stages of rainwater therapy — including collection, filtration, and quality testing — and had the opportunity to taste and apply the processed water in daily contexts. Many students expressed surprise that rainwater can be transformed into clean, fresh water through proper management and knowledge.
The activity concluded with a group photo and the collective chant “Salam Air Hujan — Berkah, Berkah, Berkah!” (“Rainwater Greetings — Blessings, Blessings, Blessings!”), symbolizing the spirit of collaboration between students and the local community. Through this initiative, UNNES students not only expanded their socio-ecological understanding but also practiced the core values of environmental conservation that define the university’s vision.
This field study contributes directly to the achievement of several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
- SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation): by promoting sustainable rainwater management and community-based clean water access.
- SDG 13 (Climate Action): by fostering ecological awareness and adaptive behavior toward climate change.
- SDG 14 (Life Below Water): indirectly, by reducing land-based pollution and runoff that affect marine ecosystems through responsible freshwater management.
Ultimately, the activity reflects the integration of education, community empowerment, and environmental stewardship — embodying the spirit of sustainability and local wisdom in action.
