Bung Hatta University Community Service Team Enhances the Capacity of Pokdarwis Through Training and Facility Support at Air Manis Beach

Padang — Bung Hatta University (UBH) reaffirmed its strong commitment to sustainable tourism development through a Community Service Program (PKM) conducted on July 17, 2025, at Air Manis Beach, Padang City. The activity was carried out in close collaboration with the local Tourism Awareness Group (Pokdarwis).

The PKM initiative involved interdisciplinary lecturers from UBH, including Lailatul Husna, S.Pd., M.Pd. (English Education), Rini Widyastuty (Informatics and Computer Education), and Dr. Rieke Alyusfitri, M.Pd. (Primary School Teacher Education). They were assisted by UBH students—Nabhan Arrofi Arpansi, Intan Bilqis Permana, Nindi Rahma Putri, and M. Iqbal—who actively contributed to English language training and digital marketing workshops for Pokdarwis members.

This cross-disciplinary collaboration was designed to generate a holistic impact by enhancing participants’ English communication skills, deepening their understanding of sustainable tourism principles (aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals/SDGs), and promoting the use of digital technology for destination marketing.

The program represents UBH’s tangible commitment to supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly within four key pillars: quality education, decent work and economic growth, and environmental protection.

The primary focus of the training centered on strengthening digital marketing skills and promoting environmentally responsible tourism concepts. The Head of the PKM Team, Lailatul Husna, stated,

“This training is expected to enhance the capacity of Pokdarwis members in serving tourists and expanding the promotional reach of Air Manis Beach, even to the international level.”

A sustainability-oriented approach was also integrated throughout the program to foster awareness among participants about the importance of preserving Air Manis Beach as a valuable natural heritage for future generations.

In addition to the training sessions, the PKM team provided practical support in the form of trash bins to maintain beach cleanliness, religious facilities for local residents, and a collection of reading books to encourage literacy among children living near the tourist area.

Hendro, the Head of Pokdarwis Air Manis, expressed his appreciation for the program’s positive impact:

“This initiative is not only about gaining new knowledge but also brings tangible benefits for the environment and local children. We sincerely thank Bung Hatta University for its meaningful contribution.”