Alya Dwiyussa Herdiyani, an undergraduate student majoring in Science Education at Yogyakarta State University (UNY) and a participant in the 2026 Educational Internship (PK) program, carried out a composting project at SMP Negeri 2 Berbah on Friday, September 11, 2026. The activity was conducted in conjunction with the "Routine Integrative Activity Based on the Eight Graduate Dimensions" (KRIDA) and involved students from the school.

The composting program served as a contribution by the intern students toward fostering a clean and environmentally conscious school atmosphere. The initiative also aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically through the management and utilization of organic waste within the school environment. The activity began with the collection of organic materials—such as dried leaves and plant debris—found on the school grounds. The intern students then guided the pupils in identifying, gathering, and processing these materials into compost. Through this activity, the students gained hands-on learning experience regarding the utilization of organic waste.

Mr. Irfan, a teacher at SMP Negeri 2 Berbah, noted the program's value, observing that there had previously been few activities addressing organic waste processing at the school. He pointed out that waste—which was formerly discarded and burned, causing pollution—could now be transformed into organic fertilizer. "This composting program is excellent. Waste that used to be just trash—often burned and causing pollution—is now processed into organic fertilizer that helps nourish the plants," Mr. Irfan said.

He added that the activity expanded the students' knowledge and experience in utilizing dried leaves and expressed hope that the program would continue to be developed in the future. Similar appreciation was expressed by Mr. Muhadi, representing the school administration. He noted that the activity educated students on the importance of converting waste found around the school into fertilizer that benefits the plants. “The school greatly appreciates this composting program, as it educates students on the importance of converting waste generated around the school into fertilizer that supports plant growth,” stated Mr. Muhadi.

He also explained that the program enabled the school to reactivate composting facilities that had long gone unused. Furthermore, the resulting compost can be used to maintain the various plants on the school grounds. Positive feedback also came from the students; Yola, an eighth-grade student at SMP Negeri 2 Berbah, shared that the composting activity provided an enjoyable learning experience and gave her new insights into the utilization of organic waste. “I’ve learned how to turn waste into something useful. If I have some free time, I’d be interested in trying it myself at home,” she said. The composting program supports SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) through organic waste management. The activity also aligns with SDG 4 (Quality Education) by offering a contextual learning experience, as well as SDG 13 (Climate Action) by fostering environmentally conscious habits. Moving forward, it is hoped that the program will continue to be utilized and further developed by both the students and the school.