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Universitas ‘Aisyiyah (Unisa) Yogyakarta continues to produce various innovations that have a positive impact on society. This time, the academic community at Unisa Yogyakarta has developed a prototype of a baby care aid called ‘GOE-KB’ or Ergonomic Oxytocin Baby Carrier – Attachment to the Baby.

This innovation was developed by a team of lecturers from the Midwifery Program and supported by interdisciplinary researchers from the Electrical Engineering Department of Muhammadiyah University of Yogyakarta. The research was led by Prof. Dr. Mufdlilah, S.Si.T., M.Sc., with team members including Yekti Satriyandari, S.ST., M.Kes., Enny Fitriahadi, S.Si.T., M.Keb., and Ir. Agus Jamal, S.T., M.Eng.

“This interdisciplinary collaboration between midwifery and engineering has produced an interdisciplinary innovation that addresses real-world needs in society. GOE-KB is not just an ordinary baby carrier but an ergonomic carrier equipped with an oxytocin massage feature to enhance the mother’s comfort and foster a strong emotional bond between mother and baby,” said Prof. Mufdlilah on Friday (July 18, 2025).

GOE-KB is a concrete step by Unisa Yogyakarta to support the well-being of mothers and children, following its previous innovation, KORSIMU or the Oxytocin Chair for Breastfeeding Mothers. Findings indicate that the use of GOE-KB significantly increases oxytocin levels in breastfeeding mothers.

“This improvement has a direct impact on breastfeeding quality, reduces stress, ensures breastfeeding quality, and strengthens the emotional bond between mother and baby. In addition, babies who are carried using GOE-KB also show better sleep quality—they sleep more soundly, longer, and wake up less often at night,” said Prof. Mufdlilah.

The study conducted in the Sleman District Health Center area involved mothers with infants aged 3–6 months. Using a quasi-experimental design, the intervention involved the use of GOE-KB with a minimum frequency of twice daily for 15–20 minutes. The results showed an increase in oxytocin levels from an average of 72.4 pg/mL to 86.4 pg/mL. The relaxing effect of oxytocin massage integrated into the ergonomic design of the carrier allows breastfeeding mothers to feel calmer and more comfortable.

Breastfeeding Is an Important Part of Supporting Exclusive Breastfeeding Success

The breastfeeding process is crucial for supporting the success of exclusive breastfeeding. Breast milk production is significantly influenced by psychological factors that can inhibit oxytocin hormone levels, such as anxiety, the mother feeling her milk supply is insufficient, and low oxytocin levels, which may not meet the baby’s needs. During the breastfeeding process, an appropriate carrier is needed to ensure the mother feels calm, safe, and comfortable.

How GOE-KB Works

GOE-KB works through several mechanisms that support increased oxytocin levels. First, its ergonomic design ensures that mothers can breastfeed in a safe, comfortable, and relaxed position, reducing pressure on the back and shoulders, which are often sources of discomfort during breastfeeding.

“The hope is that the comfort provided by GOE-KB can reduce the body’s cortisol response, which is the stress hormone in the mother’s body. This reduction in cortisol allows oxytocin to become more dominant in the mother’s body system, supporting more effective breastfeeding and fostering a strong emotional bond with the baby. The physical and emotional support provided by GOE-KB also contributes to…

The GOE-KB product has now reached the prototype stage and is currently awaiting patent approval. Researchers have also established a partnership with a local baby carrier manufacturer, CV Namansa Bakti Citra (Nana Baby Carrier), for design development, production, and marketing. This project has also produced additional outputs, including international journal publications and a research-based textbook currently in the printing process. This research is expected to serve as an alternative solution in supporting the success of exclusive breastfeeding and strengthening the natural emotional bond between mother and baby. The research team expresses gratitude to the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology for funding support through the 2024 research grant. The outcomes of this research include a prototype from the research, registered as intellectual property under a simple patent for the GOE-KB product: Submitted with registration number S00202409927, published in the Bunda Edu-Midwifery Journal (BEMJ) Volume 8, Issue 2, 2025, and a research-based textbook titled “Ergonomic Oxytocin Baby Carrier (GEO-KB) Increasing Breast Milk Production,” the intellectual property video on stretching that has been uploaded to YouTube by LPPM Unisa Yogyakarta, and the GEO-KB poster: Ergonomic Oxytocin Baby Carrier for Infant Attachment.

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The Impact Internship Program is one of the programs eagerly awaited by students. This is no exception for students at Universitas ‘Aisyiyah (Unisa) Yogyakarta. The Impact Internship Program is a source of hope, a place to hone skills in the workplace.

“I’m really excited about the Impact Internship Program. The experience will definitely be broader, with mentors who are experts in their fields. I think there will be many benefits to gain, not just financial ones,” said Indra Kurniawan, a student at Unisa Yogyakarta, on Thursday (July 17, 2025).

Awan, who is studying Communication Science at Unisa Yogyakarta, is trying to secure an Impact Internship in the field of content creation. “It’s related to my field of study. While working, I can also learn directly, right?” said the man from Magelang.

Another Unisa Yogyakarta student, Rizqi Hendrika Nugraha, shares similar sentiments with Awan. She also wants to experience the real world of work. Additionally, he believes that an internship will help expand his network. “It also supports the government’s program,” Awan explained.

Rizqi hopes that with his experience as a content creator, he will find it easier to adapt in the future. “I do enjoy creating content. I also hope to contribute to the company in the future. Hopefully, the content I create will go viral,” Rizqi expressed.

Unisa Yogyakarta student Khairunisa Trisna Safitri believes that impact internships can provide long-term benefits. “The companies involved in impact internships are large companies, which can provide valuable experience and add to one’s portfolio. The hope is that upon graduation, the chances of entering the workforce will be greater,” said Nisa.

Unlike Awan and Rizqi, who chose the field of content creation, Nisa opted for video editing. She chose video editing after gaining both theoretical knowledge and practical experience during her studies.

“I’ve always enjoyed editing videos. In the previous semester, there was also a cinematography course, so video editing is perfect for filmmaking, which made me even more interested. I hope to develop my skills further during the internship,” Nisa said.

Previously, according to kemdiktisaintek.go.id, the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (Kemdiktisaintek) officially launched the Impactful Internship Program 2025 at Building D of Kemdiktisaintek as part of the strategic direction for higher education transformation toward the concept of “Impactful Campus,” Monday (June 16, 2025).

The Impactful Internship Program aims not only to increase student participation in the workforce but also to cultivate change agents capable of addressing future challenges.

“This program is designed not only to increase internship participation rates, but also to prepare students to become agents of change. We are not just producing graduates, but agents of change who possess social awareness, professional skills, and global competitiveness,” said Minister of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology, Prof. Brian Yuliarto.

This launch also marks the beginning of the implementation phase of the program, which has been in preparation since early 2025. This program is a response to the educational transformation that demands students no longer confine themselves to classrooms and theory alone.

“Students need to be given the opportunity to engage directly in the workplace, solve real-world problems, and build professional networks across sectors. This program is not just an ordinary internship but part of the broader ‘Impactful Campus’ strategy that integrates experiential learning, social contribution, and connections between the campus and the workplace,” explained Minister Brian.

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The 2010 Asian Games and 2011 SEA Games not only left a sense of euphoria among the Indonesian people, but also marked the beginning of Tony Ibnu Yazid’s dream. His admiration for the individuals contributing behind the scenes of the national team’s efforts, particularly the physiotherapists, served as his inspiration.

“The national team’s euphoria at that time was extraordinary, but on the sidelines, there was the medical team always ready to assist whenever a player suffered an injury on the field—the physiotherapist. That’s where my interest began; after graduating from high school, I decided to pursue a degree in physiotherapy,” Tony shared on Thursday (July 17, 2025).

Weaving Dreams from Unisa Yogyakarta

Tony chose Universitas ‘Aisyiyah (Unisa) Yogyakarta in 2019. During his studies in the Physiotherapy Program at Unisa Yogyakarta, he gained a lot. One of the moments that solidified his decision to develop a physiotherapy clinic was also during his time at Unisa Yogyakarta.

Tony recalls one of the nursing lecturers at Unisa Yogyakarta, who is also the owner of Queen Latifa Hospital, Saefudin, who taught the entrepreneurship course. “The material at that time was very inspiring to enter the business world with the goal of not just finding a job after graduation, but starting a business so that I could create job opportunities in the future,” said Tony.  

Tony admitted that after completing his studies, he tried applying for a job at a hospital in Jakarta. However, he was unsuccessful at that time. Failure did not discourage Tony. He eventually applied for a job at Purwokerto Orthopaedic Hospital. There, he interned for six months and was offered a two-year contract, but he boldly declined and chose to resign instead.

“Choosing to start a business from scratch. Opening an independent physiotherapy practice, as the six-month internship was also used for market research. If I were to open an independent practice in Purwokerto, what would the prospects be, since there was only one physiotherapy clinic at the time, and that one was more specialized in pediatrics,” Tony explained.

Tony’s background in sports physiotherapy became the foundation for his bold decision. He eventually mustered the courage to resign and chose to rent a house to set up his independent physiotherapy practice. “I chose the name Physiokerto so that the general public could easily recognize it, because when it comes to physiotherapy in Purwokerto, it’s definitely Physiokerto,” he said.

Establishing a physiotherapy clinic is no easy feat. Tony admitted that challenges are always present, but one must be prepared to face them. It could be said that Tony was acting on sheer determination at the time. “Renting the space required borrowing Rp14 million from my parents, and purchasing equipment came from savings accumulated over six months of work. For the bed, table, and other items, I paid in installments to Reka MAN, who runs a furniture business,” Tony revealed.

Physical Therapy: Serving with Heart, Not on a Whim

Tony utilizes social media to promote Physiokerto. He shares information about treatment and physiotherapy education. Friendly and responsive service are some of the things Tony implements at Physiokerto.

“Maximum service makes patients spread the word to their colleagues, relatives, family, or neighbors. Fast and friendly service is the main weapon. As a result, patients will definitely return with 10 of their friends for physical therapy treatment,” said Tony.

His active involvement in various organizations during his studies at Unisa Yogyakarta has expanded his network. According to Tony, relationships are the best investment during one’s youth. “Seek experiences and learn from those who keep growing. Because the right relationships and knowledge can open up greater opportunities than just material gains. Start growing, not just dreaming,” he explained.

Tony also emphasized that Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for physical therapy services must always be followed to ensure patients feel comfortable and receive care that meets standards. “Because physical therapy is about serving with heart, not just doing as you please,” said Tony.

Fokus Pelayanan Bukan Uang

Tony mengungkapkan market fisioterapi di jalur praktik mandiri masih terbuka lebar. Ia berpesan kepada mahasiswa Unisa Yogyakarta agar memiliki mental wirausaha. Memiliki cita-cita untuk membuka lapangan kerja. “Wirausaha itu mental kuncinya, bukan modal,” pesan Tony.

Dirinya berharap kedepan alumni Fisioterapi Unisa Yogyakarta banyak yang membuka praktik mandiri di daerah asal masing-masing. Dengan begitu, fisioterapi bisa lebih dikenal masyarakat luas dan bermanfaat untuk umat. “Yakinlah asal usaha kalian diniati karena Allah untuk membantu menyehatkan Masyarakat, InsyaAllah rezeki bakal terus mendekat. Fokus ke pelayanannya bukan uangnya,” ucap Tony.

Tony mengatakan fisioterapi membantu pasien jalan disaat pasien belum mampu berjalan. Fisioterapi membantu menghilangkan nyeri disaat obat tidak bisa menghilangkannya. Fisioterapi memberikan semangat disaat pasien kehilangan semangat. Fisioterapi membantu atlet cedera agar bisa kembali berolahraga.

Focus on Service, Not Money

Tony revealed that the physiotherapy market in private practice is still wide open. He advised Unisa Yogyakarta students to develop an entrepreneurial mindset. To have the ambition to create job opportunities. “Entrepreneurship is about mindset, not capital,” Tony emphasized.

He hopes that in the future, many Unisa Yogyakarta physiotherapy graduates will open independent practices in their respective hometowns. This way, physiotherapy can be more widely recognized by the public and benefit the community. “Be confident that as long as your efforts are intended for Allah to help improve public health, Insha’Allah, blessings will continue to come your way. Focus on the service, not the money,” Tony said.

Tony explained that physical therapy helps patients walk when they are unable to do so on their own. It alleviates pain when medication cannot. It provides motivation when patients lose hope. It assists injured athletes in returning to sports.

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The declining interest of parents in enrolling their children in public elementary schools (SDN) is becoming increasingly alarming. This trend reflects a crisis of confidence among the public regarding the quality of public education.

“This phenomenon shows an alarming trend. This situation reflects a pattern of crisis in public trust, which has led to a decline in public interest in public elementary schools,” said Gerry Katon Mahendra, a lecturer in Public Administration at Universitas ‘Aisyiyah (Unisa) Yogyakarta, on Friday (July 18, 2025).

From the perspective of administration and public policy, there are at least three main factors contributing to the decline in interest in public elementary schools. First, the quality of educational services is perceived as uneven (differing by region, even within the same city/district). Second, the lack of innovation in school management in addressing the needs of students, parents, and the demands of modern times; and third, the low public trust/stigma currently in place, resulting from insufficient promotion of the advantages of public elementary schools.

Gerry said that the disparity in promotion between public and private schools is clear. The disparity is particularly evident in the context of promotion and quality improvement. Although not all private schools have the initiative and capital to improve facilities and teacher quality, those that do are able to do so. This is further compounded by aggressive promotion. Of course, there are implications, namely high school fees. However, parents still enroll their children in private elementary schools because they feel it is well worth it. Meanwhile, public schools are bound by regulations and bureaucracy that often limit service innovation.

“Parents today are highly aware and want their children to receive quality, safe, and comfortable education with good facilities. Public elementary schools need to undergo comprehensive reforms, particularly in terms of facilities and the consistency of teaching quality,” said Gerry.

Gerry observed that current policies to address the decline in student numbers at public schools are still not very effective. While there is now a zoning policy that technically ensures a more even distribution of students, zoning alone is insufficient without adequate improvements in infrastructure quality.

“Parents prefer quality education even if it means paying more. The key is to also implement policies and allocate adequate budgets related to comprehensive quality improvement,” said Gerry.

Gerry said that local governments have a key role to play in ensuring that basic education services remain equitable and of high quality. Local governments are obliged to distribute teachers evenly, improve public school facilities, and assist schools with low enrollment through affirmative action and promotion policies so that access to education remains fair for all.

“Education agencies and schools need to focus on improving the quality of teaching, upgrading facilities, and building a positive image through transparent and active communication,” said Gerry.

Gerry also emphasized that branding and public communication from public schools need to be improved. At least public schools can openly showcase their strengths and achievements. Additionally, they should utilize school social media and build active and positive communication with parents and the surrounding community.

“The short-term strategy is to improve the quality of learning and public school facilities to attract public attention. The long-term strategy involves educational management reform and curriculum innovation that aligns with contemporary needs to remain relevant,” suggested Gerry.

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Universitas ‘Aisyiyah (UNISA) Yogyakarta has once again achieved a notable accomplishment at the national level. Five teams from UNISA Yogyakarta’s Student Creativity Program (PKM) successfully secured funding from the Directorate General of Higher Education (Ditjen Dikti) for the year 2025.

This achievement places UNISA Yogyakarta at sixth place in the list of higher education institutions in the LLDIKTI V Special Region of Yogyakarta that received the most funding for the PKM program this year. This also serves as evidence that the spirit of innovation and dedication among UNISA students is growing stronger and having a tangible impact.

The funded PKM projects fall under the Student Creativity Program for Community Service (PKM-PM) scheme, a program organized by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology (Kemendikbudristek) to encourage students to actively participate in community service activities based on the application of science, technology, and art.

The Head of the Student Affairs and Alumni Bureau (BKA) at UNISA Yogyakarta, Yekti Satriyandari, expressed her appreciation for this outstanding achievement. “This is the result of the hard work of enthusiastic students, supported by competent supervisors and an increasingly structured PKM coaching system. This achievement serves as a major motivation to continue developing the creativity of UNISA students who are focused on community service and practical solutions in the field,” said Yekti.

During the selection process, UNISA’s PKM teams successfully outshone thousands of proposals from various universities across Indonesia. The five teams that secured funding will soon implement their community service programs in various regions aligned with the strategic issues they have raised, ranging from public health, women’s empowerment, creative economy, to appropriate technology.

The five PKM titles from UNISA Yogyakarta that successfully obtained funding are as follows:

Exercise Game Therapy: Realizing a Good Life for Elderly Inmates at the Class II B Sleman Prison Through the Cognitive Motor Dual Task Method

Empowering Caregivers in Supporting Elderly Independence Through Geriatric Care Technology at the Indonesian Stroke Foundation in Yogyakarta

Smart Posyandu: Optimizing Digital-Based Posyandu Services Toward Posyandu 4.0

Optimizing Binaural Beats to Reduce the Duration of Temper Tantrums in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Strategies for Improving Motivation and Mental Health in Adolescents Based on the Javanese Proverb “Urip iku Urup”

This achievement also serves as tangible evidence that UNISA Yogyakarta remains committed to nurturing students who…