Building the Next Generation of Nantu Conservationists
On 9–10 February 2026, the YANI team, in collaboration with the local government of Asparaga Sub-district, facilitated a two-day environmental workshop in Buloli, the main village of the sub-district. The initiative brought together 22 senior high-school students from 1st Asparaga Senior High School, accompanied by two teachers, for an intensive learning experience focused on the vital role of forests in sustaining both ecosystems and local communities.
Why Asparaga Matters
Asparaga lies in the lower watershed of the Nantu River, downstream from the globally important Nantu Forest. The district’s extensive rice fields depend directly on water from the Nantu–Paguyaman river system. Forest health upstream directly determines water availability, air quality, soil stability, and flood regulation downstream.
The timing of the workshop was particularly relevant. Recent catastrophic flooding in North Sumatra has highlighted the devastating consequences of watershed degradation and poor land management. For communities like Asparaga, understanding the forest–water connection is not theoretical—it is essential to agricultural livelihoods and community safety.
Learning from Experts
The workshop was led by Prof. Dedy Darnaedi of the National University. Sessions focused on:
- The role of forests in water provision
- The connection between forest cover and fresh air
- Soil erosion prevention
- Flood mitigation
- Climate change and watershed dynamics
The event was officially opened by the Sub-District Head of Asparaga, Mr. Marsan Yusup, underscoring local government support for environmental education and youth engagement.
Day 1 consisted of indoor learning sessions, including presentations and group discussions. On Day 2, students conducted a field visit to the Paguyaman River’s large irrigation dam. There, Prof. Dedy facilitated discussions on recent reductions in water levels and their direct impact on rice production and food security in the district.
From Students to Forest Champions
Following the field visit, students worked in four groups to prepare and deliver presentations on:
- Climate Change
- The Water Cycle
- Babirusa Conservation
- Becoming a Nantu Forest Champion
The level of commitment was remarkable. Miss Ain Musa, a participant from 1st Asparaga Senior High School, told TVRI, which covered the event:
“We really enjoyed this event and learned a lot; our group worked until 03:00am the night before to prepare our presentation well.”
Prof. Dedy Darnaedi noted the students’ enthusiasm:
“Students showed a high degree of interest in protecting the Nantu Forest; we look forward to follow-up events building on the success of today’s event.”
Investing in the Future of Nantu
Workshops like this are more than educational events—they are strategic investments in the long-term protection of the Nantu landscape. By equipping young people with scientific understanding and practical insight into watershed management, YANI is helping cultivate a new generation of conservation advocates rooted in their own community.
The future of Nantu depends not only on enforcement and research, but also on informed local stewardship. In Buloli this February, that future began taking shape.
