Doc: UKM Dharmayana Untar
Tarumanagara University (UNTAR), through its Dharmayana Student Activity Unit (UKM Dharmayana), successfully organized Metta Day: A Social Service for Free Medical Treatment and School Supplies Distribution in Bone Regency, South Sulawesi, from January 18–26, 2025. This event was part of UNTAR’s Community Service Program (PKM) and involved 56 students, 10 doctors, UNTAR alumni, and various local stakeholders.
UNTAR Rector, Prof. Dr. Amad Sudiro, S.H., M.H., M.Kn., M.M., emphasized the importance of initiatives like Metta Day in supporting the university’s vision and mission.
“This Community Service Program (PKM) aims to provide direct benefits to the Indonesian community as part of UNTAR’s commitment to social service. It also supports the implementation of UNTAR’s MBKM program, contributing to social and educational development. UKM Dharmayana has done an outstanding job in carrying out the Metta Day program,” he stated.
The Metta Day event featured various activities, including free medical services, a mass circumcision program, health awareness campaigns, and the distribution of school supplies and learning materials to approximately 1,800 elementary school students.
The event was officially opened by the elected Regent of Bone Regency, H. Andi Asman Sulaiman, S.Sos., M.M., who expressed appreciation for UNTAR’s commitment to supporting community development in the region.
Head of UNTAR’s Student Affairs and Alumni Institution, Tri Sutrisno, S.Si., M.Sc., also appreciated the positive response from the community and local government toward this program.
“This program received an outstanding response from the community and local government. We hope similar initiatives can continue in other regions, with thorough evaluation and monitoring to ensure long-term impact,” said Tri, who also accompanied the event.
The program yielded significant results, with more than 2,400 residents receiving free medical treatment and thousands of students benefiting from school supplies assistance. Additionally, this initiative strengthened collaboration between UNTAR, the Bone Regency Government, and the local community.
“Programs like this show that education is not limited to the classroom but also takes place through real actions in the community. We are proud that UNTAR students can actively participate in humanitarian activities that provide them with valuable experiences,” added Prof. Amad.
Through collaboration with Vihara Dharma Palakka, Metta Day also served as a symbol of harmony and interfaith tolerance, reflecting the spirit of unity in diversity. Moving forward, UNTAR is committed to expanding similar initiatives to other regions across Indonesia.
UNTAR continues to strive to make its Community Service Program (PKM) a foundation for integrating education, research, and social service, aiming to create a sustainable impact for the nation. (VC/AJ/YS/VC)