Indonesian University Supports Education Recovery in East Nusa Tenggara

RRI.CO.ID, West Manggarai - Universitas Trunojoyo Madura (UTM) has supported the continuity of education and student recovery in West Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara, through learning facilities, sports equipment, and psychosocial support activities. The initiative, carried out from September 27 to October 1, 2026, reflects the role of Indonesian universities in supporting communities and helping schools maintain a supportive learning environment.

Through its UTM PEDULI initiative, UTM provided assistance to six schools in West Manggarai, including MTsN 1 Manggarai Barat, SMPN 2 Lembor Selatan, SMA 2 Lembor, SMPN 2 Komodo, SMPN 3 Komodo, and SMPN 8 Komodo. The assistance included five Smart TV units for learning activities as well as sports equipment to encourage students to remain active and engaged in school.

UTM said the support is intended not only to address educational facilities but also to help create a more comfortable and interactive learning environment for students. The university views education recovery as a process that also requires attention to students’ confidence, motivation, and psychosocial well-being.

An important component of the initiative was trauma-healing activities, which provided students with opportunities to interact, play, express themselves, and rebuild confidence in a supportive environment. UTM said such activities are intended to help students feel more comfortable as they continue their education and return to regular school activities.

The initiative was carried out in coordination with the West Manggarai District Government and received appreciation from local education and disaster-management authorities. Head of the West Manggarai Regional Disaster Management Agency Oktavianus Andi Bona and Secretary of the West Manggarai Education, Youth and Sports Office Gabriel Ferdi welcomed the university’s involvement in supporting community recovery, particularly in education.

For UTM, the initiative reflects a broader role for higher education institutions beyond teaching and research. Universities can also contribute through community engagement, collaboration with local authorities, and direct support for students and schools facing challenges.

The UTM PEDULI team, comprising Ir. M. Latif, S.Kom., M.T., Dr. Haryo Triajie, S.Pi., M.Si., and Ansori, S.H., M.H., carried out the activities in West Manggarai. The program also reflects the Indonesian higher education sector’s emphasis on impactful community service, with universities encouraged to contribute to communities beyond their campuses.

Through the initiative in West Manggarai, UTM aims to support the continuity of education while strengthening cooperation between universities, local governments, and schools. The program highlights how education recovery can involve both practical support for learning and attention to students’ well-being, helping young people regain confidence and continue preparing for their future.