Pagilaran, Central Java – The Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Program (BMM) and the Doctoral Program in Dental Science (IKG) from the Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FKG UGM), conducted a health-focused social outreach program targeting employees and their families at PT Pagilaran.
The event, held over two days from 8-9 November 2024, in Pagilaran, Central Java, aimed to provide free healthcare services and education to the local community. This initiative aligns with efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in promoting health and sustainable education access.
By partnering with PT Pagilaran, the program directly addressed the health needs of a community where access to healthcare facilities remains a challenge, requiring a 10-kilometer journey to reach the nearest public health center. This social outreach initiative served as an effective solution to bring healthcare services closer to employees and their families.
According to drg. Mufidana Azis, one of the medical team members present, the local community showed great enthusiasm for the event. Over 130 individuals registered for health services, including dental check-ups, extractions, and general health consultations.
“Despite being far from healthcare facilities, the community's awareness of health issues is remarkable. People came not just for assistance but genuinely to get their health checked. We hope this outreach is beneficial, and UGM remains committed to conducting it regularly,” said drg. Mufidana Azis.
The event also involved lecturers and specialist students from the BMM program, who collaborated with other programs within FKG UGM to provide a range of dental care services and health education. Emphasis was placed on the importance of regular dental care and maintaining oral hygiene as part of a healthy lifestyle.
Furthermore, the collaboration between the Doctoral Program in Dental Science, the BMM Program, and PT Pagilaran showcased a strategic partnership aimed at improving community welfare, particularly enhancing access to healthcare in isolated areas.
This program not only reflects PT Pagilaran's corporate social responsibility but also demonstrates how effective partnerships can support SDG achievements. Specifically, it contributes to SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), and SDG 17 (Partnerships to Achieve the Goals).
Positive feedback from participants highlighted the importance of such initiatives in strengthening public health. Attendees expressed their gratitude for the health services and education provided, hoping similar events would continue in the future. This response underscores the significant impact of outreach programs in building sustainable health and ensuring equitable access for all.
Looking ahead, the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Program at FKG UGM plans to extend these outreach activities to other communities in need of similar healthcare services. By leveraging cross-sector partnerships, they aim to contribute to a healthier and more sustainable future for all segments of society, supporting SDG goals in health and sustainability.
Author: Pram | Photo: drg. Muhhamad Reza Pahlevi, Ph.D.
