Dospulkam, 106 IPB University Lecturers Ready to ‘Return Home’ to Spread Inspiration and Innovation to Their Hometowns
The Rector of IPB University, Prof Arif Satria, has high hopes for the Dosen Pulang Kampung (Dospulkam) program as a concrete effort by the university to bring direct impact to rural communities. He believes that the presence of IPB University faculty members in their hometowns not only brings knowledge but also inspiration and innovation that can drive sustainable rural development.
This year’s Dospulkam program involves 106 IPB University faculty members who will be deployed to 106 villages/neighborhoods across 62 districts/cities in 14 provinces across Indonesia. The number of faculty members participating in this program, initiated by the IPB University Rector, has increased annually. In 2023, there were 51 faculty members, 75 in 2024, and 106 in 2025.
“For us, this is part of IPB’s innovations that can have economic, ecological, and social impacts. It can also help build a village full of optimism due to the many innovations present in that village,” said Prof Arif in his opening remarks at the Dospulkam launch event recently.
The Dospulkam program itself is one of many community service programs by IPB University that has reached over 6.600 villages across Indonesia. This program has produced academic contributions, village development models, and policy recommendations that are beneficial at both the local and national levels.
On the other hand, Prof Arif also hopes that lecturers can become a source of inspiration for village communities. According to him, villages need inspirational figures who can motivate the community’s thoughts and actions toward progress.
“Inspiration can indeed come from words, but it is better if inspiration comes from actions. Hopefully, Dospulkam can be part of the actions that bring benefits to village communities. Of course, benefits that are systemic, sustainable, and long-term,” he said.
The Vice Rector for Research, Innovation, and Agromaritime Development at IPB University, Prof Ernan Rustiadi, explained that interest in this program has continued to grow year after year. The program’s budget has also increased from Rp1,2 billion last year to Rp2,5 billion this year.
He added that the concept of “village” in this program is not limited to geographical villages but also includes sociological and historical villages.
“Usually, due to historical ties, a sense of ownership, and a strong desire to give the best, this results in extraordinary impacts,” said Prof Ernan.
Furthermore, Prof Ernan hopes that participants will document all activities through social media and the website. This step serves as concrete evidence of IPB University’s contribution to society while also demonstrating the tangible impact of the program being implemented. (*/Rz) ( IAAS/LAN)
