JEMBER – Politeknik Negeri Jember (Polije) is helping livestock farmers in Sidomukti Village, Mayang District, Jember, turn cow manure into organic fertilizer. The initiative also encourages farmers to establish a livestock group and strengthen their business cooperation.

Polije funds the initiative through its 2026 Community Service Program for Assisted Villages. The funding comes from Non-Tax State Revenue (PNBP). The program follows cooperation between Sidomukti Village Government and Polije's Research and Community Service Center (P3M).

Noor Asrianto, S.Pt., M.Sc., leads the community service team. Anang Febri Prasetyo, Agus Hadi Prayitno, and Khen Dedes support the program. Three students also participate: Yoga Nurkhоliq, Naufal Riszqi Hastama Eriyanto, and Ade Bayu Lesmana.

During the training, the team introduced Local Microorganisms (MOL) as a decomposition starter. They then guided residents in processing cow manure into organic fertilizer for agricultural use.

This approach helps farmers increase the value of livestock waste. Meanwhile, crop farmers can use the resulting fertilizer to support cultivation and make better use of local resources.

The team also encouraged residents to establish a livestock group. This organization can help farmers exchange knowledge, strengthen cooperation, and develop joint businesses with members of the Tirta Melati Farmers Association (Gapoktan).

Prof. Dr. Ir. Rosa Tri Hertamawati, M.Si., IPM., ASEAN Eng., supports the initiative as Sidomukti Village's advisor and mentor. She helps connect village needs and local potential with the expertise of Polije's academic community.

Team leader Noor Asrianto said the program encourages residents to develop local resources productively. He expects waste processing and stronger farmer organizations to support sustainable livestock businesses.

“Through this Assisted Village Program, we want to encourage residents to utilize the resources available in their surroundings. Processing livestock manure into organic fertilizer and strengthening farmer organizations are expected to become initial steps toward more productive and sustainable livestock businesses,” he said.

Through this initiative, Polije strengthens farmers' waste-processing skills and encourages collective action. Collaboration among the university, village government, farmers, livestock breeders, mentors, and students is expected to improve community independence in Sidomukti.