UNAIR Alumnus Transforms Orchard into Eco-Tourism Destination Emphasizing Sustainable Tourism
Rohim Ariful, a graduate of Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) with a degree in Information Systems, has transformed an orchard in Ponorogo into an eco-friendly tourism destination known as Ndalem Kerto. Originally designated for guava production, the site now functions as an interactive learning environment that encourages visitors to engage with nature.
Development During the Pandemic
The concept for Ndalem Kerto developed during the COVID-19 pandemic, coinciding with government initiatives that promoted healthier living through increased consumption of fresh fruit and greater interaction with the natural world. In 2022, the orchard evolved into an educational tourism venue, marking it as the first of its kind in Ponorogo to adopt a “play, learn, and appreciate nature” framework. This initiative is tailored for a wide range of students, from preschool to university level, and includes opportunities for internships and fieldwork.
Sustainable Tourism Practices
Ndalem Kerto incorporates sustainable tourism practices by collaborating with the local community to create various learning spaces, including goat and cattle pens, the guava orchard, and small businesses that offer guava products. The site addresses environmental conservation issues while simultaneously preserving local cultural knowledge related to Reog Ponorogo, particularly focusing on the green peafowl.
Overcoming Challenges
Despite encountering challenges such as limited funding and staffing, Ariful has successfully increased the site’s popularity within the community. He aims to further develop the business to ensure its sustainable benefits for the local area.
Future Aspirations
In addition, Ariful has expressed a desire to pursue further studies to enhance the development of educational tourism in Ponorogo in the future.
(Source: Universitas Airlangga)
