Advancing SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities): Andalas University KKN Students Develop Water Filtration Technology in Nagari Magek

Agam, West Sumatra — Andalas University continues to support sustainable development through its Community Service Program (KKN), contributing to SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities). Students implemented a two-stage water filtration system to address clean water challenges in Nagari Magek, Kamang Magek District, Agam Regency.

The initiative was developed in response to community needs, particularly in Jorong Pulai, where residents faced issues with murky and odorous water used for ablution. Field Supervisor of Andalas University KKN, Dendi Adi Saputra, explained, “This idea emerged from community feedback that water used for ablution in Nagari Magek, especially in Jorong Pulai, is cloudy and has an unpleasant odor.” He also noted that the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Andalas University had conducted laboratory testing on water samples, confirming the need for immediate intervention through filtration technology.

Currently, the filtration system has been installed in one mosque and is planned to be expanded to several prayer facilities in the area. Dendi added, “Although the implementation is still limited, this KKN initiative can be easily replicated, as the technology is relatively simple to apply.”

Muhammad Ikbal Jacky, a KKN student from the Department of Civil Engineering, stated, “Together with my team, we are trying to address water issues in Nagari Magek through filtration technology.” He explained that the simple water purification device is made from PVC pipes and other low-cost, easily accessible materials.

Chairman of the Agam Regional House of Representatives (DPRD), Novi Irwan, expressed appreciation for the initiative. He stated, “We hope this technology can be disseminated to other areas within Nagari Magek,” and emphasized that research activities should be aligned with the needs of local communities.

Through this initiative, Andalas University demonstrates its active role in integrating scientific knowledge, community needs, and sustainable solutions at the village level, contributing to improved access to clean water and enhanced quality of life for local residents.