Yogyakarta, September 5, 2026 — Ten students from the Pharmacy Professional Program (PSPA) at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), accompanied by their academic supervisor, apt. Farida Nur Aziza, S.Farm., MGMP, conducted a community service activity in Gumuk, Bugisan, Bantul. Under the theme “Chewy Candy for Strong Bones: Moringa Gummy Action for Bone Health,” the activity, carried out in collaboration with local PKK women’s groups, focused on health education, herbal food innovation, and routine health screenings.
During the educational session, the students explained the importance of maintaining bone health and introduced their moringa gummy innovation. This creative food product utilizes the calcium and high nutritional content of moringa leaves as a healthy food alternative, particularly for children who have difficulty consuming vegetables. The gummy-making workshop was conducted interactively using simple ingredients such as gelatin, water, sugar, and food coloring. The PKK participants enthusiastically followed the session and took part in practicing the preparation process themselves.
Community enthusiasm was evident when the moringa gummies were distributed. The product received a positive response, particularly from children who enjoyed the taste and even wanted additional servings. With a pleasant flavor that was not overly sweet while retaining the distinctive taste of moringa leaves, the gummies were well received. The activity demonstrated that meeting children’s nutritional needs can also be introduced through food products that are appealing, tasty, and enjoyable.
Beyond nutritional education, apt. Farida Nur Aziza also highlighted the importance of physical exercise for maintaining bone density. Participants were then invited to practice simple weight-bearing exercises using fully filled mineral water bottles, as well as wall sits, which are safe and practical to incorporate into daily routines.
The activity concluded with free health screenings for the PKK participants, including weight measurement, blood pressure checks, and tests for blood glucose, uric acid, and cholesterol levels. In addition to physical health screenings, the students distributed educational leaflets containing guidance on blood pressure monitoring and planning healthy daily meals. Through this collaborative initiative, the UGM Pharmacy Professional Program students hope that community members will become more accustomed to monitoring their health while also gaining the skills to prepare moringa gummies independently at home to support family nutrition.
This community service activity aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) through health education, health screenings, and efforts to promote healthy lifestyles within the community. The use of moringa as a food innovation to support nutritional needs also contributes to SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), while student involvement in community education and empowerment supports SDG 4 (Quality Education).
