Peran Mahasiswa Dalam Mengurangi Kemiskinan Terhadap Usaha Mikro Kecil Menengah (UMKM): Studi Kasus Desa Wonosari

Abstract

Poverty remains a significant challenge in Indonesia, despite a decline in poverty rates in several regions, including East Java. Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are considered a strategic solution for poverty reduction through job creation and enhancing local economic competitiveness. This study examines the role of university students in alleviating poverty by empowering MSMEs in Kampung Baru Hamlet, Wonosari Village, Malang Regency. Through the Student Community Service Program (KKM) 70 at Maulana Malik Ibrahim State Islamic University Malang, students were directly involved in assisting MSMEs, including entrepreneurship training, financial management, and digital marketing. The research employed a participatory approach, where students not only observed but actively participated in production, marketing, and administrative processes. The findings indicate that student assistance successfully enhanced MSME operators’ capacity to manage their businesses, particularly in digital marketing and financial administration. Positive impacts were evident in the increased visibility of MSME products, such as Dewa Ndaru batik, Gliti cassava chips, and D’Jamoekoe traditional herbal medicine, through social media. Additionally, students helped in financial reporting and the Annual Tax Return (SPT) preparation. This study concludes that student involvement in MSME empowerment can serve as an effective model for poverty reduction and sustainable local economic growth.