Pemberdayaan Ibu-Ibu Perwiritan melalui Pengolahan Buah Naga menjadi Puding sebagai Upaya Peningkatan Nilai Tambah Hasil Pertanian di Desa Jandi Meriah

Abstract

Dragon fruit is an agricultural commodity in Jandi Meriah Village that has traditionally been marketed primarily as fresh fruit, limiting its added value. Processing agricultural produce into food products is an effective strategy to enhance value and expand business opportunities for rural communities. This study describes the planning, socialization, implementation, and evaluation of an initiative to process dragon fruit into pudding a project carried out by university students participating in a Community Service Program (KKN) in collaboration with a local women's religious study group (perwiritan) in Hamlet I, Jandi Meriah Village, on August 18, 2026. The study employs a qualitative descriptive approach, using participatory observation, documentation, and literature review for data collection. Data analysis was conducted through reduction, presentation, and conclusion drawing. The results indicate that the activity proceeded smoothly and was well-received by the participants. Through hands-on practice and product tasting, the women learned that dragon fruit can be transformed into a valuable food product with the potential to serve as a simple business venture. Key factors contributing to the success of the initiative included the accessibility of ingredients, the straightforward production process, the active involvement of participants, and the presentation of the finished product. Several aspects such as the seasonal availability of dragon fruit, product shelf life, cost and pricing calculations, and food business licensing require further attention. This initiative demonstrates that a direct, hands-on approach leveraging local resources is an effective method for introducing agricultural product diversification to rural communities. Continued guidance and support are necessary to ensure these skills evolve into viable, sustainable business enterprises