PEMEBERDAYAAN MASYARAKAT DESA MELALUI PROGRAM KKN-T BERBASIS PENDIDIKAN, PENGEMBANGAN UMKM, DAN KEPEDULIAN LINGKUNGAN

Abstract

Thematic Community Service Program (KKN-T) is a form of implementing the Three Pillars of Higher Education, focusing on community service through a participatory approach based on local potential. This article aims to describe the implementation and impact of the KKN-T program conducted in Suka Damai Village, Tanjung Lago District, Banyuasin Regency. The method used is a community service approach with the Participatory Action Research (PAR) and Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) models. Data collection techniques were carried out through participatory observation, direct mentoring, educational socialization, and activity evaluation with the community. The results show that the KKN-T program had a positive impact on several aspects, including increased student interest in learning through educational assistance, increased public awareness of environmental health   specifically Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) prevention, improved understanding among MSME (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises) actors regarding the importance of branding and product packaging, and the revival of mutual cooperation (gotong royong) culture in maintaining village environmental cleanliness. In addition, the installation of village signage strengthened regional identity and supported village administrative order. Therefore, the KKN-T program has proven to be a means of holistic and sustainable village community empowerment.