The 2024 Sociology Goes to Village (SMD) Program is one of the flagship activities of the Social Sector within the Sociology Students Association (IMS) at the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (FISIP) of the University of Riau. Each year, IMS organizes the SMD program as a tangible contribution to rural communities in Riau Province. This initiative aims not only to provide material assistance but also to offer a deep understanding to rural communities about relevant social issues.
In 2024, SMD will be held from November 7 to November 10 in South Tanjung Belit Village, Kampar Kiri Hulu District, Kampar Regency, Riau Province. The choice of location reflects strategic considerations, ensuring SMD can engage directly with the rural community and make a significant impact on local social development. Thus, SMD is more than just a social service activity; it serves as a real platform for sociology students to address social challenges in rural areas.
On a separate occasion, Dr. Achmad Hidir, S.Sos., M.Si., Head of the Department, stated that the theme for SMD 2024 is "Developing the SAKTI Generation Through Synergy in Education and Nature Conservation for a Sustainable Village Future." This theme underscores the importance of education and environmental conservation efforts as the main foundation for creating a sustainable future for villages. Through various activities, such as community meetings, distribution of plant seedlings, school teaching sessions, creating reading corners, and producing aromatic candles from used cooking oil, SMD 2024 strives to make a lasting contribution by raising awareness about the importance of education and environmental preservation.
During the implementation of SMD activities, participants will be accompanied not only by Sociology Department lecturers, such as Teguh Widodo, S.Sos., M.Si., but also involve 27 committee members and IMS FISIP University of Riau administrators. Collaboration and cooperation among students, lecturers, and relevant parties are key to the success of the SMD program. Broad participation from various elements is expected to strengthen the program's impact, providing real benefits to rural communities and ultimately enhancing awareness of the importance of collaboration between education and environmental preservation to create a better future.
-Enggy-