Yogyakarta, December 23th, 2021
The Master of Science and Doctoral Program (MD) FEB UGM has successfully held a scientific discussion event, MD REFO #4, on December 23th, 2021. This fourth MD REFO (Research Forum) presented Mr. Rimawan Pradiptyo, M.Sc., Ph.D., Head of the Department of Economics FEB UGM and Founder of the SONJO Organization, as a speaker and Prof. Catur Sugiyanto, M.A., Ph.D., Chair of the Doctoral Program in Economics FEB UGM, as moderator. This scientific forum attended by 58 participants consisting of various parties, including students, academics, practitioners, and the general public.
In this scientific discussion opportunity, Mr. Rimawan explained about SONJO, an informal organization in Yogyakarta, which has a humanitarian mission to help people affected by Covid-19 in Yogyakarta. This organization was founded on March 24th, 2020, which currently has 2300 members and 29 WhatsApp groups as a medium of communication. SONJO’s role is as a facilitator of humanitarian activities between parties, so it does not manage funds. This is because based on OJK regulations, SONJO is an informal organization, which not authorized to manage funds.
SONJO has an Economic Program and a Health Program. In total, there are seven Economic Programs and thirteen Health Programs. The Health Program is more indeed because, during this pandemic, there are a lot of health services are needed, food and vitamin supply assistance, and vaccinations. Based on the pattern of existing needs, SONJO then responded by initiating various health programs.
In managing organizational activities, SONJO cooperates with various communities and implements a system of coordination and trust. The mobilization and human resources involved in SONJO are extraordinary. The role of the volunteers can support the welfare economy during the pandemic. Of course, this is a very inspiring contribution and supports the improvement of people’s welfare.
Interesting discussions about SONJO and their work in overcoming problems caused by the pandemic took place very interactively. Many participants admired and asked how the various programs were successful. Mr. Rimawan also stated that there had been a lot of research on SONJO and hoped that this organization would be able to continue to contribute. The MD REFO #4 event was closed with a group photo. (Y)
