On July 5, 2024, APMMI conducted a community service activity at Kopi Klotok Tangerang in collaboration with Faculty of Economics and Business at Universitas Indonesia, the University of Melbourne, and Harvard University. The event, attended by over 50 people including APMMI members and students, reflects the growing global emphasis on sustainability in various sectors, including business education. This trend was further highlighted by a pioneering sustainability workshop featuring Duanyam, a renowned social enterprise.
About Duanyam
Duanyam is a social enterprise that focuses on empowering women in rural Indonesia by promoting traditional weaving techniques and producing high-quality wicker products. Founded in 2014, the enterprise addresses issues of poverty, malnutrition, and lack of access to education and healthcare in East Nusa Tenggara, one of the poorest regions in Indonesia.
The Workshop: A Convergence of Academia and Practice
The sustainability workshop, held in collaboration with prestigious institutions like the University of Melbourne and Harvard University, aimed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. By bringing together academic insights and real-world experiences, the workshop provided a holistic learning environment for participants.
Objectives of the Workshop
The primary objectives of the workshop were to:
- Promote Sustainable Practices: Educate participants on sustainable business practices and their importance in today’s global economy.
- Highlight Duanyam’s Impact: Showcase how Duanyam’s business model positively impacts the community by providing economic opportunities and preserving cultural heritage.
- Encourage Collaboration: Foster a spirit of collaboration between academia and industry, demonstrating how partnerships can lead to sustainable development.
Key Activities
The workshop featured a series of interactive sessions, including:
- Presentations by Duanyam: Representatives from Duanyam shared their journey, challenges, and successes in building a sustainable enterprise.
- Case Studies: Participants analyzed case studies on Duanyam’s impact, exploring how traditional craftsmanship can drive economic growth and community development.
- Hands-on Workshops: Attendees engaged in practical activities, learning the intricate weaving techniques from Duanyam artisans and understanding the cultural significance behind them.
Impact and Takeaways
The collaboration between the Faculty of Economics and Business, Universitas Indonesia, APMMI, University of Melbourne, and Harvard University highlighted the importance of integrating sustainability into business education. The workshop not only provided valuable insights into sustainable business models but also emphasized the role of social enterprises like Duanyam in fostering community development and preserving cultural heritage.
Participants left with a deeper understanding of how businesses can contribute to sustainable development goals and the importance of supporting local communities through ethical and sustainable practices.
Conclusion
Duanyam’s involvement in the sustainability workshop exemplifies how social enterprises can play a crucial role in promoting sustainable development. By collaborating with leading academic institutions, Duanyam has helped to educate future business leaders on the importance of sustainability and the positive impact that socially responsible businesses can have on communities. This workshop stands as a testament to the power of collaboration between academia and industry in driving meaningful change.
