Lecturers and students from Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta (UNY) recently organized a training program on the production of macramé-based merchandise for members of the PKK women’s group in Juwangen Hamlet, Purwomartani Village, Sleman. The activity aimed to foster a spirit of creative entrepreneurship (creativepreneurship) by developing creative handicraft skills with commercial value and the potential to become home-based businesses.

Through a creativepreneurship approach, participants were not only taught how to create products but were also introduced to the process of developing creative ideas, product packaging, simple branding, and marketing strategies. This approach was designed to help build entrepreneurial mindsets and encourage productive, sustainable economic activities within the community.

During the training, participants learned to make macramé bag charms, which were subsequently labeled, packaged, and prepared for marketing. The products are expected to become distinctive local creative merchandise with economic value and the potential to create new business opportunities for PKK members.

The program was carried out by a team of lecturers and students consisting of Dr. Ari Kusmiatun, Tresna Maya Sofa, and Arsianti Latifah, under the leadership of Dr. Rony Siswo Setiaji as project coordinator.

According to Dr. Rony Siswo Setiaji, PKK members have significant opportunities to transform their creativity into economically valuable home-based enterprises. He emphasized that the concept of creativepreneurship is important because it connects creativity, craftsmanship, and market opportunities into sustainable productive activities.

Meanwhile, Pustika, the Head of Juwangen Hamlet, expressed appreciation for the program. She noted that local residents were highly enthusiastic about participating in the macramé training, which not only resulted in attractive handmade products but also helped participants develop patience, build self-confidence, and gain insight into creative business opportunities based on handicrafts.

One participant also shared that the activity was highly beneficial because it inspired entrepreneurial skills, empowered women at home, and provided opportunities for additional income through facilitated product sales.

The training represents an effort to empower women through the strengthening of the community’s creative economy using a creativepreneurship approach that emphasizes creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurial independence. Through initiatives such as this, UNY continues to demonstrate its commitment to community engagement and sustainable economic development.

This program contributes to SDG 4 – Quality Education, by providing practical skills and entrepreneurial knowledge and SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals, through collaboration between the university and the local community.