IPB University Delivers 1,27 Metric Tons of Aid to Disaster Victims in NTT
IPB University distributed approximately 1,27 metric tons of humanitarian aid to communities affected by disasters in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). The aid, which was dispatched on Tuesday evening (9/8), consisted of approximately 6.350 packages of ready to eat sterilized rice as well as various supporting items, including water purification systems.
Rector Dr Alim Setiawan Slamet symbolically sent off the aid at the IPB Science Techno Park (STP), Taman Kencana Campus, Bogor (9/8). The aid is the result of collaboration among various parties, including alumni under the auspices of IPB’s Aksi Relawan Mandiri (ARM), the IPB Alumni Golf Association, the Satu Umat Foundation, the IPB community (faculty, staff, and students), and the public.
“On this occasion, we are able to jointly send humanitarian aid to our brothers and sisters affected by the disaster in NTT,” said the Rector during his remarks at the aid handover ceremony.
He noted that this aid represents the compassion and solidarity of the IPB University community. According to him, social responsibility has become an integral part of IPB University’s identity, including applying the knowledge we possess to benefit communities in need.
“Today, we are sending a total of 6.350 packages of ready to eat sterilized rice. This is one of the innovations developed by Dr Tjahja Muhandri (a lecturer in the Food Science and Technology Program),” he said.
Sterilized rice was chosen because it can last up to one year and is practical for meeting food needs during disasters. Previously, IPB University had also sent approximately 54.000 packages of sterilized rice to communities affected by floods in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra, when conditions made it difficult for people to access clean water and cook.
The Chair of ARM IPB, Ir Ahmad Husein, M.Si., stated, “Following the rector’s instructions and mandate the day after the earthquake, our team immediately held a coordination meeting with IPB University leadership to determine humanitarian actions to assist the affected communities.”
Currently, aid is being directed to two locations: Salama Village, Reok Subdistrict, Manggarai Regency; and Kota Neighborhood, Sambi Rampas Subdistrict, East Manggarai Regency. The aid includes food and non-food items, clean water, community kitchens, and psychosocial support, particularly for children affected by the disaster.
The Satu Umat Foundation is also contributing by providing three water purification units and two reverse osmosis (RO) machines. The total value of the logistical aid prepared is nearly 40 million rupiah.
“The aid will be delivered in stages via available routes, both by land and air, with the goal of reaching the affected areas within a maximum of one week,” he said.
Ahmad also commended the students who helped raise funds. He hopes that the institution, the IPB University community, and alumni can unite to support and champion humanitarian values. (dh) (IAAS/STD)
