UNISA Yogyakarta Sends Off 1,121 Students for Community Service Program, Ready to Learn Local Wisdom in 5 Regencies and Cities

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Universitas `Aisyiyah (UNISA) Yogyakarta is once again conducting community service activities through its students. A total of 1,121 students were deployed to participate in the Community Service Learning Program (KKN), which will take place in 11 villages spread across five regencies and cities in the Special Region of Yogyakarta, including Sleman, Yogyakarta City, Bantul, Kulon Progo, and Gunung Kidul. The send-off ceremony took place at the Convention Hall of Masjid Walidah Dahlan on Tuesday, July 22, 2025.

UNISA Yogyakarta Rector, Dr. Warsiti, S.Kp., M.Kep., Sp.Mat, stated in her opening remarks that KKN is not merely a work program but a valuable life-learning process.

“In the community, students will learn a great deal. They will not only apply the knowledge gained in the classroom but also learn about local wisdom and values,” said Warsiti.

She also added that this experience will require students to quickly adapt to complex social realities. “This requires quick adaptation and facing complex realities,” she emphasized, reminding students of the challenges they may encounter in the field.

Furthermore, Warsiti emphasized the importance of good communication skills for every KKN participant. She advised students to create programs that are truly beneficial with ideas that are meaningful to the community.

“Create programs that are beneficial with ideas that are meaningful to the community, and maintain ethics so that you can blend in with the community,” she concluded, providing important guidance for students so that they can be accepted and have a positive impact at the KKN location.

This send-off marks the beginning of a new chapter for UNISA students to apply their knowledge while enriching themselves with invaluable social experiences.

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UNISA Yogyakarta Architecture Students Showcase Creative Playground Designs, Ready to Produce Innovative Architects

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The talent and creativity of students in the Architecture Study Program at the Faculty of Science and Technology (FST) of Universitas `Aisyiyah (Unisa) Yogyakarta have once again impressed. Second-semester students successfully created an innovative and creative playground architecture design, which was exhibited at the Unisa Yogyakarta Integrated Campus on Monday (July 21, 2025). This project serves as tangible evidence of the students’ ability to translate theory into functional design applications.

Through the Design Studies course with the theme “Configuration,” the students were divided into three groups. Each group was tasked with designing and applying architectural concepts into tangible forms before presenting their work to the responsible instructor. As a result, three unique and attractive playground designs were created, each named Jungle Land, Rubik, and Pitter Petter, specifically designed as children’s play areas.

Ar. Rizki Aldillah, S.Ars., M.Ars., IAI, or Kiki as he is commonly known, the lecturer for the design course in the Architecture Program, explained that the project aimed to introduce students to the concept of architectural configuration.

“These second-semester students are beginning to understand what architectural configuration is. They not only understand and grasp the concept but can also apply it in a design that is both unique and functional,” said Kiki.

Furthermore, Kiki added that this configuration course is designed to prepare students to face a more mature design process, without neglecting the importance of ideas and creativity. He also highlighted the challenges of the digital era, where Unisa Yogyakarta architecture lecturers do not want their students to lack creativity due to excessive consumption of designs from digital platforms.

“The hope is that what they gain in this second semester can be carried forward to the next semester to explore more advanced designs with unique characteristics,” Kiki concluded.

This initiative underscores Unisa Yogyakarta’s commitment to producing young architects who are not only technically competent but also rich in design innovation and capable of thinking outside the box.

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Inspired by Asta Cita, Lecturers and Students at Unisa Yogyakarta Digitize Villages

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Inspired by the program of the President of the Republic of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto, lecturer of the Information Technology Study Program at Universitas ‘Aisyiyah (Unisa) Yogyakarta, Sadr Lutfi Mufreni, S.Kom., M.Sc and three students developed an innovation for rural communities. This innovation is a tangible form of support for rural development.

Titled “Innovation in Website Creation and Management Services for Village-Owned Enterprises (BUMDes) through the SiDesa Platform as a Solution for Village Digitalization,” this innovation has been approved for funding under the 2025 Student Entrepreneurship Development Program (P2MW) by the Directorate of Learning and Student Affairs, Directorate General of Higher Education, Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology of the Republic of Indonesia. In addition to Sadr, this innovation also involves three students from the Information Technology Program, namely Irsyad Winarko, Muhammad Salman Alfarisi, and Dian Gita Meilani. “This was inspired by President Prabowo’s vision for village economy (Asta Cita),” explained Sadr on Monday (July 21, 2025).

One of the Asta Cita principles is to build from the village and from the bottom up to achieve economic equality and eradicate poverty. This innovation, which promotes digitalization at the village level, is a tangible contribution from the academic community of Unisa Yogyakarta to empower rural communities.

Sadr stated that the SiDesa platform serves as a platform for marketing the goods and services of rural communities. This is not without reason, as SiDesa also addresses the issue where BUMDes and their products already exist, but unfortunately have not been marketed effectively. “This is to assist in marketing the goods and services of BUMDes,” said Sadr.

Long-term development for the SiDesa platform has also been considered by Sadr and his team. It is hoped that with future development, the positive impact felt by rural communities will be even greater. “In the future, we aim to become a unicorn startup in rural digital development. Yes, with a subscription model,” said Sadr.

Sadr mentioned that this idea was also initiated by students. The involvement of the younger generation in this endeavor is a crucial component. He also motivated other students to continue developing themselves. “You’re still young, so let’s explore,” Sadr encouraged.

Sadr also commended P2MW for potentially fostering the emergence of technopreneurs. Personally, this achievement reflects the success of collaboration between faculty and students. “This signifies that the efforts, ideas, and hard work undertaken have received tangible recognition, opening opportunities for further development,” Sadr stated.

Sadr noted that as part of Unisa Yogyakarta, the success in securing the P2MW grant has a positive impact. This demonstrates that Unisa Yogyakarta has the capability to produce students who not only excel academically but also can apply their knowledge to create business opportunities.

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Online Gambling Threatens Young People: From Debt to Mental Health Issues

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Online gambling (Judol) remains a real threat to various segments of society. Debt spirals and criminal activities are often triggered by addiction to online gambling. The allure of big profits, but in reality, significant losses, are the result of online gambling.

“Online gambling has become a threat, not just financially. This phenomenon causes psychological issues, social impacts, and damages the future of the younger generation. How tragic that judol cases are now spreading to illegal online lending,” said Warsiti, Rector of Universitas ‘Aisyiyah (Unisa) Yogyakarta, during the opening of the Seminar & Awarding Ceremony for the 2025 Student Creativity Competition in Communication Studies (Antariksa) titled ‘Stop Clicking, Start Living,’ held at the Baroroh Baried Hall of Unisa Yogyakarta, Saturday (July 19, 2025).

Warsiti hopes that the younger generation will become agents of change capable of preventing the spread of online gambling. This is one of the steps toward cultivating a golden generation by 2045. “Unisa Yogyakarta is committed to building the character and integrity of its students and staff, encouraging them to use technology for positive purposes,” said Warsiti.

During the seminar session, Member of the Regional Representative Council (DPD RI) for the Special Region of Yogyakarta, R.A Yashinta Sekarwangi Mega, revealed data from the Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Center (PPATK) showing that the number of gambling transactions reached 39,818,000 transactions. The turnover of funds is estimated to reach 1,200 trillion by the end of 2025.  

Sadly, many young people are caught up in this vicious cycle of gambling. Data on the amount of deposits based on age shows that those aged 10–16 have deposited more than Rp2.2 billion. Those aged 17–19 have deposited more than Rp47.9 billion. Finally, those aged 31–40 have deposited more than Rp2.5 trillion. “Today’s reality is a challenge we all face. Online gambling is like a sweet temptation at first, but it ends bitterly in the end. Everyone can be affected,” said Yashinta.

Yashinta also provided examples of various criminal acts triggered by debt resulting from online gambling. As a member of the Regional Representative Council (DPD) of the Republic of Indonesia, Yashinta mentioned that her party is collaborating with the Financial Services Authority of the Special Region of Yogyakarta (OJK DIY) to support the prevention of online gambling.

One important aspect, according to Yashinta, is improving digital literacy. This can be done through community-based initiatives or by encouraging family and community involvement. “So, within social circles, people should remind each other. Within family circles, friends can also remind each other,” said Yashinta.

Psychologist Cania Mutia from RSIY PDHI Yogyakarta revealed that online gambling is currently like an iceberg phenomenon. “It may seem small, but it is very widespread. One dies, a thousand grow. Online gambling is an issue of self-identity,” said Cania.  

Cania revealed that there are at least four cycles of gambling addiction. First, the winning phase, where initial wins bring euphoria and overconfidence. Second, the losing phase, where losses trigger a desire for revenge. Third, the desperation phase, where severe addiction causes gamblers to become increasingly entangled. “Fourth, the giving up phase, where awareness of the impact leads to seeking help or further decline. Awareness often comes from losing all one’s money or being arrested by the police,” she said.

Gambling is an addictive disorder similar to substance addiction in drugs. Gambling causes psychological symptoms known as gambling disorders, which involve emotional and behavioral disturbances, can lead to mental health issues, and impact daily life.

Cania suggests building resilience. Start by creating a financial plan, engaging in self-reflection, and identifying triggers that lead to the desire to gamble. Additionally, manage stress in healthier ways. “Build strong social support, limit and remove access to online gambling sites. Find hobbies and alternative activities,” said Cania.

Gambling is often linked to online loans (pinjol). Many people are trapped in illegal online loans. Illegal online loans can also endanger the public. One example is that illegal online loans impose unlimited interest and penalties. 

Assistant Director of the Division of Supervision of Financial Service Providers, Education, Consumer Protection, and Strategic Management Services at OJK DIY, Susana Diah Kusumaningrum, said that OJK plays a role in regulating the financial services sector, supervising the financial services sector, as well as protecting consumer and/or public trust. She also urged the public not to be easily tempted by promises of quick, substantial profits.

“I urge the public to avoid online gambling. Be very cautious and do not be tempted. As far as I know, no one has become wealthy through online gambling,” Susana explained.

During the event, Susana also provided financial education. This included caution regarding investments, understanding legal and illegal online loans, and recognizing various fraud schemes.

Reza Al Khifari, Chairman of Antariksa 2025, stated that online gambling cannot be underestimated at this time. He urged all segments of society not to turn a blind eye to the dangers of this phenomenon. “The anti-online gambling campaign is hoped to foster new agents in the fight against online gambling,” said Reza.

This event marks the culmination of the Antariksa series of events, following previous activities such as Antariksa Goes to School, Sapa Warga, and Campaign on the Road. Antariksa 2025 is also part of the 34th anniversary celebrations of Unisa Yogyakarta. The event is supported by various parties, including the Financial Services Authority of the Special Region of Yogyakarta (OJK DIY), Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI), and RA Yashinta Sekarwangi Mega, a member of Committee IV of the Regional Representatives Council (DPD) of the Republic of Indonesia.

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GOE-KB Baby Carrier Innovation, Increases breast milk production and mother-baby bonding

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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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