Not all children grow under the same circumstances. Some require more attention—not because they are less capable, but because they need a different approach. True education should humanize every individual without exception, including children with special needs.
Unfortunately, inclusive approaches are still not a priority in many institutions, both in education and health. This is where higher education institutions play a role in preparing graduates who can address real issues in society.
The Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FKG UGM), through its Department of Pediatric Dentistry, organized a community service activity themed “Giat Beraksi: Wujudkan Senyum Sehat Anak Berkebutuhan Khusus” at SLB Marganingsih on Tuesday, 27 May 2025. The event was attended by the Dean of FKG UGM, the Head of the Department of Pediatric Dentistry, lecturers, representatives from the Yogyakarta Provincial Education Office (Disdikpora DIY), Puskesmas Ngemplak Sleman, and the Chair of the Pelita Bunda Foundation.
FKG UGM Cares for Children with Special Needs (AIBK)
This activity was carried out as a form of FKG UGM’s concern for the oral health of children with special needs (Anak dengan Kebutuhan Khusus – AIBK). These children are at high risk of dental and oral health problems due to physical, cognitive, and sensory limitations that hinder them from maintaining oral hygiene independently. The high mortality rate associated with untreated dental problems in this demographic underlines the urgency of such programs.
Moreover, the lack of knowledge among parents and teachers regarding AIBK dental care often worsens these conditions. Therefore, this community service aimed to build a network of oral health cadres from among parents and teachers, so they can become active and educated companions in the dental care journey of these children.
According to drg. Anrizandy Narwidina, MDSc, Sp.KGA., Ph.D, one of the supervising lecturers, forming oral health cadres among parents and teachers is essential to create active companions who can assist AIBK in daily oral care routines. “The great hope of this program is to bring about behavioral change, starting with simple habits like brushing teeth twice a day. While it may seem small, this habit can have a huge impact if carried out consistently in a supportive environment,” She said.
SLB Marganingsih warmly welcomed this initiative. Children with special needs showed tremendous enthusiasm by presenting captivating dance and music performances, showcasing their great potential when given the right space and support. Despite their limitations, they performed with full confidence—proving that every child has vast potential if nurtured properly.
Community Service as a Compulsory Course
The Community Service course has been part of the official curriculum of the Pediatric Dentistry Specialist Program since 2023. It was designed as an implementation of the program’s research and community engagement roadmap . With a systematic and structured learning process from the first to the sixth semester, the course ensures graduates gain holistic competencies—not only cognitive and psychomotor but also social.
According to Dr. Narwidina, the course is structured to ensure each community service activity is sustainable and based on real problem identification within communities. Its implementation occurs in two stages: problem identification during the fifth semester, followed by applying solutions in the sixth semester. “This model is similar to the Community Service Program (Kuliah Kerja Nyata/KKN), but specifically tailored to the competencies of pediatric dentistry specialist residents,” he explained.
Hopes for Specialist Residents
After taking this course, pediatric dentistry specialist residents from FKG UGM are expected to play an active role in reducing caries prevalence and improving oral hygiene among children with special needs. In addition, the program seeks to strengthen the capacity of parents and teachers to guide these children in daily oral care practices. The long-term vision is to create a sustainable support system in which brushing teeth twice a day becomes an integral part of AIBK’s healthy lifestyle.
Though these steps may seem small, with the active involvement of parents, teachers, and cross-sectoral support, significant change can be achieved. Collective awareness of the importance of oral health care serves as the foundation for improving the quality of life of children with special needs.
Furthermore, this initiative reflects UGM’s values in addressing real societal challenges. With a sustainable, people-centered approach, this community service aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—particularly in ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all, including children with special needs.
Author: Fajar Budi Harsakti
Contributors: drg. Arif Rahman Setyawan, drg. Anrizandy Narwidina, MDSc, Sp.KGA., Ph.D.
