Pangandaran, July 25, 2024 — The Community Service Team (PPM) from the Faculty of Geological Engineering, Universitas Padjadjaran (FTG Unpad), carried out a community empowerment program for the local Tourism Awareness Group (Pokdarwis) in the Aspiring Geopark Pangandaran area, West Java. This initiative aimed to enhance local community understanding of geodiversity and geotourism as essential elements for sustainable development.
The FTG Unpad team consisted of seven faculty members:
- Dr. M. Sapari Dwi Hadian, S.T., M.T.
- Prof. Dr. Ir. Nana Sulaksana, MSP
- Prof. Dr. Dra. Winantris, M.S.
- Dr. Ir. Johanes Hutabarat, M.Si.
- Dr.Eng. Ir. Agus Didit Haryanto, M.T.
- Dr. Dra. Lia Jurnaliah, M.Si.
- Dr. Lili Fauzielly, S.T., M.T.
- Dr. Ir. Agung Mulyo, M.T.
This program reflects FTG Unpad’s commitment to regional development by strengthening the capacity of local human resources, particularly in managing environmentally friendly and education-based geological tourism potential.
During the training sessions, the speakers presented materials on:
– The fundamentals of geodiversity and the importance of conservation,
– Strategies for developing sustainable geotourism,
– The potential of the Aspiring Geopark Pangandaran as an educational tourism destination,
– Basic skills in communication and geotourism interpretation for visitors.
The head of the community service team, Dr. M. Sapari Dwi Hadian, emphasized the importance of local community involvement in geotourism development to ensure both environmental sustainability and economic benefit.
“Through this program, we hope Pokdarwis members can better understand the scientific and educational value of the geological wealth in their area, and develop tourism activities that are not only visually attractive but also offer added value through education and conservation,” said Dr. Sapari.
The event also facilitated discussions between academics and local tourism actors regarding the challenges and opportunities in developing geotourism within the geopark area. It is expected that this training will serve as a foundation for creating an educational tourism model that actively involves the community and promotes sustainable practices.
