maritimeposts.com/ – The Center for Climate Change Studies (PSPI) of Hasanuddin University, in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment (KLH) and the Hanns Seidel Foundation (HSF), held a briefing session for students participating in the Thematic Community Service Program (KKN) on Climate Change.
The event took place on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at Swiss-Belhotel Losari, Makassar.
The program was designed to prepare students to become agents of change in the coastal areas of Makassar City through science- and community-based adaptation and mitigation approaches.
A representative of the Ministry of Environment, Irawan Asaad, ST., M.Sc., Ph.D., emphasized in his presentation that students hold a strategic position in supporting national policies related to climate change control.
“Students are on the front lines. You can strengthen the implementation of ProKlim and become part of the effort to achieve the government’s established NDC targets,” he stated.
In addition to national policies, students were also equipped with scientific understanding related to the vulnerability of coastal ecosystems. Coastal expert from Hasanuddin University, Prof. Nita Rukminasari, SPi., MP., Ph.D., highlighted the importance of ecosystem-based interventions. She stressed that coastal areas are highly vulnerable to climate change; therefore, the application of climate-smart aquaculture must be a priority.
Speakers Andi Haerul, S.Kel., M.Si., and Andi Annisar Dzati Iffah, S.Kel., M.Si., provided training through their materials on regional climate risk analysis. Both presented data on sea-level rise trends, the potential for tidal flooding, and the increasing intensity of extreme weather events in Makassar City.
Furthermore, Dr. Ir. Syarifuddin Mabe emphasized that student programs must have a clear exit strategy. Dr. Athira Rinandha added that the involvement of local stakeholders is a fundamental starting point to ensure that programs do not cease once the KKN period ends.
The Head of the Blue Forest Foundation, Yusran Nurdin Massa, S.Kel., M.Si., stressed that coastal restoration cannot stand without community involvement. Students also gained perspectives from local communities. Community representatives and local residents were expected to share their experiences in managing ProKlim activities at the grassroots level.
In addition, Andi Nurdianza from the Makassar City Environmental Council highlighted the importance of community-based waste management.
“Waste banks are not merely places to deposit waste; they are tools for behavioral change. Students can help strengthen this movement,” said Andi Nurdianza.
Through this briefing, Hasanuddin University’s Thematic KKN students are expected to bridge government policies with the needs of coastal communities. Their presence serves as a momentum to strengthen relevant, science-based, and sustainable climate action at the community level. (/*ams)