Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS), in collaboration with Universitas Muhammadiyah Ponorogo (UMPO), Swinburne University of Technology Australia, and Universitas Tidar (UNTIDAR) hosted skills development training for Batik Ciprat artisans in Karangpatihan on May 3, 2025. This initiative is conducted as part of the international community empowerment partnership program funded by Universitas Sebelas Maret in 2025.

The training focuses on the use of batik drying equipment, fashion product development, and digital marketing strategies through TikTok Shop. The objective is to increase production volume and sales revenue of Batik Ciprat as a locally-sourced product. Specifically, the ready-to-wear production training aims to enhance participants’ skills in producing wearable clothing from batik ciprat, which can then be marketed via social media and online marketplaces.

The program consists of several key stages, from fashion design, pattern making and cutting based on measurements, to the sewing process. Through this training, participants are expected to produce compelling batik ciprat garments that are competitive in the digital market, while also opening up new business opportunities in the digital economy era.

Held at the Karangpatihan Village Hall in Balong Subdistrict, Ponorogo, the training is part of an international community service initiative developed by the four universities. It seeks to enhance artisans’ technical and managerial skills, and strengthen batik ciprat marketing capacity in the evolving creative industry landscape.

Dr. Evi Gravitiani, program coordinator from UNS, stated that, “We hope this collaboration has a positive impact on Batik Ciprat artisans in Karangpatihan. One of the core aspects of this training is the introduction of a drying machine for batik fabric production. This technology accelerates the drying process without compromising batik quality and aesthetics, while also reducing dependence on weather conditions.”

During the session, artisans receive direct guidance from UNS experts on the use and maintenance of the tools involved. “By using the drying machine, our production—especially at the drying stage—becomes faster, more consistent, and no longer dependent on sunlight,” says Samuji, one of the participating batik artisans.

In addition to technical instruction, artisans are also equipped with knowledge on digital marketing strategies. These sessions are led by lecturers and supported by student technical teams from UNS, Swinburne University of Technology Australia, and Universitas Tidar (UNTIDAR).

Participants are trained to use social media and TikTok Shop to expand the market for batik ciprat. The curriculum includes creative content creation, social media account management, and effective online marketing techniques.

“We hope that through digital marketing, Batik Ciprat Karangpatihan becomes more widely recognized and attracts consumers from across regions,” states Aan, one of the training participants.

The training not only aims to improve production capacity and sales revenue of batik ciprat but also seeks to enhance the overall well-being of the Karangpatihan community. By applying the newly acquired skills, artisans are expected to improve their quality of life through increased income.

“UMPO is ready to support this initiative, and we hope it leads to a long-term collaborative program between UNS, UMPO, and UNTIDAR in advancing the creative economy in Karangpatihan, especially in the Ponorogo region,” adds Dr. Sudarno, Head of LPPM UMPO.

Batik Ciprat Karangpatihan is more than a craft product—it symbolizes the independence, spirit, and resilience of individuals with disabilities in Karangpatihan. Therefore, the development of more efficient drying tools, fashion designs aligned with global trends, and creative marketing through TikTok Shop are strategic steps in responding to modern challenges and amplifying the socio-economic impact of batik ciprat. This program is aligned with the spirit of the Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka (MBKM) initiative and higher education’s tri dharma values.

Dr. Eny Boedi Orbawati, Head of LPPM Universitas Tidar, expresses, “I offer my highest appreciation to all parties involved, especially UNS, UMPO, Swinburne University of Technology Australia, and UNTIDAR, the Karangpatihan village government, the community for person with special needs, and the students, and lecturers who have worked together in perfect synergy. This program proves that sustainable community service is achievable through collaborative, cross-cultural, and solution-oriented efforts.”

Through this program, Batik Ciprat Karangpatihan is expected to evolve and emerge as a leading local product with strong competitiveness in both national and international markets.

Source: Dr. Evi Gravitiani, Faculty Member of FEB UNS