Pharmacy UGM – The Faculty of Pharmacy at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) has reaffirmed its strong commitment to empowering Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by partnering with Wahana Mandiri Indonesia (WMI) Cooperative. Through a community service program, this collaboration aims to transform MSMEs using strategic re-branding approaches, focusing on the flagship product “RG (Rampa Grow) Herbal Tea.” This initiative is designed to enhance MSME competitiveness in an increasingly dynamic market, particularly in the digital era that demands creativity and innovation.
The program features three main activities. The first was a brainstorming session and focus group discussion (FGD) held on Friday, June 7, 2024, at the WMI Cooperative Office in Bantul Regency. This discussion resulted in a new packaging design for RG Tea, specifically tailored for use as hotel amenities. The second activity was a food safety training session conducted on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, at the WMI Cooperative production house in Samigaluh, Kulon Progo Regency. During this session, 35 participants gained in-depth knowledge about raw material processing, hygiene standards, and the importance of safe packaging to meet consumer trust standards.
The third activity was a digital marketing training session held online on Thursday, December 19, 2024. Led by digital marketing expert Mr. Hepni and involving students from SMK Kuncup Samigaluh, this session equipped participants with skills in utilizing Google Ads and Social Media Marketing (SMM). To ensure effective implementation, a three-month mentorship program will follow.
This program not only supports MSMEs in improving quality and competitiveness but also contributes to achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By promoting the production of safe and nutritious food, the program aligns with SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being). Efforts to drive local economic growth through MSMEs resonate with SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), while strengthening sustainable consumption and production practices supports SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). The collaboration involving UGM Faculty of Pharmacy, WMI Cooperative, and SMK Kuncup Samigaluh also reflects SDG 17 (Partnership for the Goals) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), establishing this program as a model of synergy that delivers widespread benefits to society.
This initiative underscores the Faculty of Pharmacy UGM’s dedication to fostering innovation and collaboration for the betterment of the community, demonstrating the transformative power of academia-industry partnerships.