Community Development in Lamaru through Education, Socialization, and Digitalization: Final Report of Regular KKN 51, Mulawarman University, Balikpapan City

Pemberdayaan Masyarakat Lamaru melalui Edukasi, Sosialisasi, dan Digitalisasi: Laporan Akhir KKN Reguler 51 Universitas Mulawarman Kelurahan Lamaru Kota Balikpapan

Abstract

Community Service Program (KKN) is an academic activity designed to implement the Tri Dharma of Higher Education, particularly the aspect of community service. This program aims to provide real contributions to society while enhancing students’ social and professional skills. The KKN program of Mulawarman University was conducted in Lamaru Subdistrict, East Balikpapan, from July 14 to August 20, 2025. Lamaru was chosen for its potential in tourism, local SMEs, agriculture, and cultural heritage, despite facing challenges in promotion and digital literacy. Based on field observations, the main program developed was the creation of a potential video showcasing Lamaru’s strengths, including local SMEs, traditional dance, agricultural activities, and four major tourist beaches: Lamaru Beach, Watu Beach, Jalasena Beach, and Segara Sari Manggar Beach. In addition, several flagship programs focusing on education and community empowerment were implemented, such as interactive English teaching, school-based socialization on political awareness, financial literacy, drug prevention, sex education, and awareness of skincare overclaim issues. Other initiatives included the development of the “Visit Lamaru” website as a long-term tourism promotion platform. All activities were carried out using participatory methods involving the community, SMEs, and students from elementary to secondary schools. The results indicate high participant engagement, increased knowledge across multiple sectors, and sustainable outputs such as digital media for tourism promotion and environmental cleanliness support tools. Overall, this program strengthened local potential while providing students with valuable experiences in applying academic knowledge to real-life community service.