Innovative Strategies for Cultivating an Environmentally Conscious Green Generation at SDN 028 North Balikpapan

Abstract

Community service activities represent one of the core pillars of the Tri Dharma of Higher Education. This particular initiative was conducted at SD Negeri 028, located in Karang Joang Subdistrict, North Balikpapan, Balikpapan City, East Kalimantan. The school faces several challenges, including a lack of student interest in learning activities, particularly those conducted outdoors. This issue is largely attributed to inadequate facilities, such as an underdeveloped school garden and the absence of clear school identity markers. These limitations have negatively impacted students' motivation to participate in outdoor learning experiences. In response, the implemented program included the development of school identity signage—such as name boards for the school and classrooms—the construction and maintenance of an educational garden, and the establishment of a mushroom cultivation area as a medium for sustainable learning. The initiative also incorporated creative activities, such as drawing and coloring sessions with students, aimed at fostering interest in learning and promoting environmental awareness. Through this program, it is expected that the school environment will become more aesthetically pleasing, educationally enriching, and conducive to learning. Furthermore, the activities are intended to cultivate students’ awareness of the importance of maintaining cleanliness and the beauty of their surroundings, serving as an initial step toward fostering an environmentally friendly school culture.