Teuku Umar University (UTU) has once again strengthened its synergy with Cipta Mandiri University (UNCM) through the launch of the second-year Assisted Village Empowerment Program (PDB) in Suak Sigadeng Village, West Aceh, on Friday (July 10, 2026). This strategic initiative targets 40 duck farming entrepreneurs gathered under the Beujroh Women Farmers Group (KWT) and the Baro Tabina Farmers Group to optimize economic potential based on local wisdom.
The program, funded by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, comes as a solution to production capacity constraints and low selling prices of residents' livestock commodities. A multidisciplinary team led by Dr. Izwar, S.Pd.I., M.Pd. focuses on increasing operational efficiency through the application of appropriate technology and diversification of processed egg products.
As a concrete intervention, the community service team provided training on making salted egg crackers to add value to fresh products. Additionally, farmers are now transitioning to alternative feed based on Azolla plants to lower operational costs. Technical support was also reinforced by the handover of assistance in the form of a multifunctional pellet machine and a modern egg incubator with a capacity of up to 1,000 eggs.
Head of the Service Team, Dr. Izwar, emphasized that this mentorship is designed to shift farmers' mindsets from conventional methods to independent and professional business management. Program evaluations show a significant improvement in technical aspects, ranging from biosecurity understanding and digital marketing strategies to the operational mastery of advanced machine devices.
The Suak Sigadeng Village Government enthusiastically welcomed the arrival of this technology. Akmal Fata, a village government representative, assessed that the assistance not only enhances the economic value of the farmers' businesses but also opens up new job opportunities. This collaboration between academics and the community is expected to serve as a catalyst for economic independence for villagers in the West Aceh region.
