SURAKARTA – The Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta (UMS), welcomed a Parent Class visit from Madrasah Ibtidaiyah Muhammadiyah Program Khusus (MIM PK) Kartasura on Saturday, April 18, 2026. The program was designed to introduce students and their parents to the field of public health through engaging educational sessions and hands-on laboratory activities.
The visit began with an introduction to the Department of Public Health UMS. Participants learned about the scope of public health, career opportunities for graduates, and the important role public health professionals play in disease prevention, health promotion, and community empowerment to improve population health.
Following the presentation, participants visited the Waste Management Laboratory, where they took part in several practical learning activities. One of the highlights was observing mosquito larvae under a microscope, allowing students to gain a better understanding of vector-borne diseases and the importance of mosquito surveillance in preventing diseases such as Dengue Fever.
The participants also experienced a hydroponic planting activity using rockwool as the growing medium. This hands-on session introduced them to environmentally friendly farming methods while promoting awareness of food security, sustainable agriculture, and environmental conservation.
Through these interactive activities, students gained valuable scientific knowledge while experiencing laboratory-based learning in an enjoyable and accessible way. The program was expected to foster curiosity, strengthen environmental and health awareness, and inspire young learners to develop an interest in science and public health from an early age.
The Department of Public Health UMS remains committed to providing community-engaged educational programs as part of its mission in higher education. The Parent Class visit from MIM PK Kartasura reflects the department’s commitment to strengthening collaboration between primary education institutions and universities in promoting meaningful, contextual, and inspiring learning experiences while enhancing public health literacy within the community.
