Surabaya – Kajian Keilmiahan Mahasiswa (KAKEMA) of the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine (FPK), Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR), collaborated with the Public Administration Student Association (HIMA JUARA) of the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (FISIP), Universitas Airlangga, in implementing the Sekolah Inspirasi Program at SDN 1 Keputran, Surabaya. This collaborative initiative introduced catfish farming using Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS) and Aquaponics technologies as an educational medium that integrates science, innovation, and environmental awareness for elementary school students.
The educational program featured two lecturers from the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, Universitas Airlangga, namely Muhammad Hanif Azhar, S.Pi., M.Si., Ph.D., and Nina Nurmalia Dewi, S.Pi., M.Si. They delivered materials on the fundamental concepts of catfish farming using RAS and Aquaponic systems. These technologies utilize water filtration and recirculation processes to improve water-use efficiency while maintaining optimal water quality. Aquaponics, meanwhile, integrates fish cultivation and plant production within a mutually beneficial ecosystem. Students were also introduced to the importance of food security, environmental management, and technological advancements in aquaculture.
The activity was conducted through interactive learning sessions, including presentations, demonstrations of RAS and Aquaponic system components, discussions, and question-and-answer sessions that actively engaged students. Participants showed great enthusiasm throughout the program, particularly when observing firsthand how the cultivation systems operate and learning about catfish farming practices.
The Principal of SDN 1 Keputran expressed appreciation for the collaboration between the two student organizations.
“We highly appreciate the collaboration between KAKEMA from the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences and HIMA JUARA from Universitas Airlangga in providing innovative learning opportunities for our students. Through education on catfish farming using RAS and Aquaponic systems, students not only gain new knowledge about fisheries but also learn the importance of environmental conservation and the responsible use of technology. We hope that collaborations like this can continue and bring lasting benefits to our students,” the Principal stated.
The Chairperson of KAKEMA also emphasized that the program reflects students’ commitment to introducing aquaculture innovations to the wider community through educational approaches that are accessible and engaging for elementary school children.
“Through Sekolah Inspirasi, we aim to demonstrate that aquaculture can be carried out using environmentally friendly and efficient technologies. Education on RAS and Aquaponic systems serves as a way to introduce aquaculture innovation at an early age while fostering awareness of food security and environmental sustainability,” the Chairperson explained.
The collaboration between KAKEMA and HIMA JUARA represents a meaningful synergy among Universitas Airlangga student organizations in implementing the university’s Tri Dharma, particularly in the area of community engagement. Through the Sekolah Inspirasi Program, both organizations seek to improve scientific literacy, introduce modern aquaculture technologies, and inspire younger generations to become more aware of environmental sustainability and food security challenges.
Beyond serving as a platform for knowledge transfer, the Sekolah Inspirasi Program also contributes to the achievement of several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By introducing catfish farming through Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS) and Aquaponics technologies, the program supports SDG 4 (Quality Education) by providing practical science and technology learning experiences for elementary school students. Furthermore, the promotion of efficient and sustainable aquaculture practices contributes to SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) through the enhancement of food security awareness from an early age and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) through the responsible use of resources.
The application of RAS technology, which significantly reduces water consumption, also aligns with SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), while the introduction of sustainable aquaculture practices supports SDG 14 (Life Below Water) by raising awareness among young generations about the importance of protecting aquatic resources. In addition, the collaboration among KAKEMA FPK UNAIR, HIMA JUARA FISIP UNAIR, university lecturers, and SDN 1 Keputran reflects the implementation of SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through strengthening cross-disciplinary partnerships that support education, community engagement, and sustainable development.
Author: Muhammad Hanif Azhar
Editor: TPA
