Himasilkan IPB University Makes Gemaik 2024, Educating the Role of Fish in Supporting Child Growth Without Stunting
The Student Association of Fishery Product Technology (Himasilkan), Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Science of IPB University held the Gemar Makan Ikan Movement (Gerakan Gemar Makan Ikan) 2024 at Al-Fauziyah Islamic Boarding School, Rancabungur, Bogor, West Java.
With the theme ‘The Role of Fish in Supporting Child Growth Without Stunting’, the event aimed to raise public awareness of the importance of local fish consumption in preventing stunting in children.
Stunting is one of the major health problems in Indonesia, especially in the first 1,000 days of life (HPK) of children. Gemaik is present to educate the community, especially posyandu cadres, pregnant and lactating mothers, and the surrounding community.
“We present this program to provide education about the benefits of local fish as a source of animal protein that is rich in omega 3, omega 6, omega 9, vitamins, and minerals. Local fish was also chosen because of its economical price and nutrients that are not much different from fish such as salmon,” said Qori Jihan Atiqah, one of the student representatives.
The event was filled with expert speakers from academia and practitioners, including Dr Safrina Dyah Hardiningtyas, IPB University lecturer from the Department of Fishery Product Technology, who discussed the importance of the amount of fish on the menu to prevent stunting.
In addition, Lili Nus Chalimah, SPt, from the Bogor District Fisheries and Livestock Service Office, provided socialization on the advantages of fishery products to support child development. At the end of the event, a demonstration of nutritious and healthy fishery product processing was held, guided by Cahyuning Isnaini SGz, MSc.
“This activity is expected to inspire the community in utilizing local fish for family nutritional needs. In addition, hopefully this program can also increase public understanding of the important role of fish in supporting optimal health and growth of children, and help Indonesia in its efforts to prevent stunting,” Qori concluded. (*/Rz) (IAAS/Aly)
