In the heart of Indonesia, a quiet revolution is brewing, one that’s as much about empowering women as it is about sustainable agriculture and economic growth. In Gunungmanik Village, a community service program led by Perwitasari Fitri Dian from the Animal Husbandry Department at Universitas Muhammadiyah Cirebon is transforming lives and livestock practices, all while aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The program, published in the BIO Web of Conferences, focuses on training women to manufacture traditional animal medicine using locally available spices like cloves, cardamom, and ginger. This initiative is not just about creating a new product; it’s about fostering entrepreneurship, improving livestock health, and increasing household income.
The results speak for themselves. Participants’ income has increased by a staggering 40-70%, with additional earnings of IDR 700,000-1,500,000 (USD 43.75-93.75) per month from the sale of these traditional medicines. “The women here are not just learning a new skill,” says Dian. “They’re gaining confidence, they’re becoming entrepreneurs, and they’re contributing to the local economy.”
But the benefits don’t stop at economics. The program has also led to a significant reduction in the use of synthetic antibiotics, promoting eco-friendly livestock practices. This is a significant step towards sustainable agriculture, a key component of SDG 2. “We’re not just treating the animals,” explains Dian. “We’re treating the environment too.”
The program’s impact on gender equality is equally impressive. 80% of participants reported heightened entrepreneurial confidence, and 90% gained new skills. This aligns with SDG 5, which aims to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.
So, what does this mean for the future? This initiative offers a blueprint for similar programs in Indonesia and beyond. It shows that empowering women can drive economic growth, promote sustainable agriculture, and contribute to the SDGs. As Dian puts it, “This is not just about making medicine. It’s about making a difference.”
Future efforts should focus on policy integration, public-private partnerships, and expanded training to ensure long-term impact. This could lead to a network of empowered women entrepreneurs, driving rural development and contributing to a more sustainable future.
The energy sector, often seen as a male-dominated field, can learn from this. By empowering women and promoting sustainable practices, the sector can drive economic growth, contribute to the SDGs, and create a more inclusive future. After all, the future of energy is not just about powering machines; it’s about empowering people.