The Department of Mathematics and the Mathematics Student Association (HIMATIKA) held the 2026 Community Service Program on Sunday, September 20, 2026, in Lam Asan Village, Kuta Baro District, Aceh Besar Regency, Aceh. The activity represented one of the students’ contributions to supporting the implementation of the Three Pillars of Higher Education (Tri Dharma Perguruan Tinggi), particularly community service through educational and social activities for children.
The program was attended by children from Lam Asan Village and faculty members of the Department of Mathematics, FMIPA USK. Rini Oktavia, S.Si., M.Si., Ph.D., Head of the Department of Mathematics, was also present and delivered remarks in support of the community service initiative organized by the students. The activity provided an opportunity to strengthen ties between the academic community of the Department of Mathematics and local residents.
The program began with an opening ceremony featuring the recitation of Qur’anic verses, followed by remarks from the organizing committee chair, the Chairperson of HIMATIKA, a faculty representative, and the village head. The formal session continued with the presentation of a certificate to the village head, a prayer, and a group photo. The event then moved into informal activities designed to create a friendly and enjoyable atmosphere for the participating children.
One of the main activities was an engaging and interactive mathematics education session. The children were introduced to mathematical concepts through learning materials presented in a fun and accessible way. This approach was expected to increase their interest in learning and demonstrate that mathematics is not only learned through textbooks and classroom exercises but can also be explored through everyday activities and games.
To encourage greater participation, the organizing committee held various educational games, including Ranking Satu and Grab the Bottle. These games allowed the children to participate actively, practice concentration, develop their thinking skills, and foster a sense of togetherness. Ice-breaking activities were also incorporated to maintain an enjoyable atmosphere and strengthen interaction between the participants and the organizing committee.
Following a break for prayer and lunch, the program continued with a handicraft activity in which the children made fans from origami paper. This activity gave them an opportunity to develop their creativity, attention to detail, and fine motor skills. At the end of the program, the organizing committee presented prizes to the participants in recognition of their involvement and enthusiasm throughout the activities.
The event concluded with a group photo and a collective clean-up of the activity area. This clean-up initiative helped foster environmental awareness and demonstrated the importance of maintaining shared spaces after an activity has concluded.
Through the 2026 Community Service Program, the Department of Mathematics and HIMATIKA sought to increase children’s interest in and understanding of mathematics through creative educational approaches. In addition to benefiting the local community, the activity provided students with an opportunity to develop their communication, teamwork, leadership, and social responsibility skills through direct engagement with residents.
The Department of Mathematics strongly supports community service initiatives as part of the implementation of the Tri Dharma Perguruan Tinggi. It is hoped that this program will strengthen the relationship between higher education institutions and the community while encouraging students to continue contributing to meaningful educational and social activities that benefit the surrounding environment.