SUKABUMI – The Minister of Villages and Development of Disadvantaged Regions (Mendes PDT), Yandri Susanto, has engaged the academic community of the University of Muhammadiyah Sukabumi (UMMI) to participate directly in the rural development process. This step aligns with the Octahelix approach, a framework that positions academia as a crucial actor in transforming villages into independent entities.

"This noble aspiration cannot be accomplished by just one or two people; it is not something that the government or the Ministry of Villages and Development of Disadvantaged Regions can achieve alone. That is why I am here—to build a team with the University of Muhammadiyah Sukabumi," the Minister emphasized during the Open Session of the Academic Senate commemorating the 23rd Anniversary (Milad) of UMMI in Sukabumi, Friday (June 12, 2026).

The Octahelix approach represents a collaborative model where rural development is driven by eight key actors: the government, academia, the business sector, society, communities, the media, financial institutions, as well as technology and innovation partners.

True to their designation, academia and higher education institutions are responsible for providing scientific studies, researching local potential, developing technological innovations, and mentoring local communities. Consequently, their role is highly critical in translating the theories taught in lecture halls and discussion forums into concrete, real-world applications.

University involvement can be channeled through various methods, including empowering local communities based on regional potential and residents' skill sets. Furthermore, universities can serve as direct business drivers, enabling UMMI alumni to create new job opportunities for the wider public rather than merely waiting for employment vacancies.

"UMMI alumni do not necessarily have to look for jobs; instead, they should focus on opening new fields of employment for the people. We at the Ministry stand ready to cooperate in this endeavor to assist youth in returning to their villages. This way, they can remain living in the village but earn an income on par with urban areas," Minister Yandri explained.

In running these enterprises, alumni can collaborate with the Ministry through its 12 Strategic Action Plans, such as establishing thematic villages, export villages, and tourism villages. Naturally, the existing potential in the alumni's respective villages will serve as the primary consideration, ensuring not only added economic value but also the maximum, sustainable utilization of the environment.

To formalize this serious commitment, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed during the event between the Ministry and UMMI regarding the "Enhancement of the Quality of Education, Research, and Community Service in Villages and Disadvantaged Regions." The entire academic community, including lecturers and students, is expected to participate directly in the entire process of rural development and human resource quality improvement in accordance with their respective roles.

Photo: Wening/Kemendes PDT 
Text: Ria/Kemendes PDT