Surakarta – Students from the Biology Education Study Program at Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) have successfully introduced a breakthrough in sustainable food innovation through the WIBAWA UNS Program. The team organized a socialization and production workshop for YONARIA (Dragon Fruit and Gracilaria Yogurt) in Bedesan Village, Dukuh, Sukoharjo at December 25, 2025.

This initiative represents a significant academic contribution to community empowerment, focusing on the transformation of local raw materials into high-value, nutritious products with substantial economic potential.

The Science of YONARIA: Superfood Innovation

YONARIA is a uniquely formulated yogurt that integrates the nutritional benefits of red seaweed (Gracilaria sp.) and red dragon fruit peel extract. This innovative combination yields a fermented beverage that is not only visually appealing and refreshing but also rich in:

  • Probiotics: Essential for maintaining digestive health.

  • Natural Fiber: Derived from high-quality red seaweed.

  • Antioxidants: Sourced from upcycled dragon fruit peels, promoting environmentally friendly food practices.

Empowering the Community through Hands-on Education

During the session, the student team provided a comprehensive demonstration of the yogurt-making process—covering ingredient preparation, precise processing, and the critical stages of fermentation.

The residents of Bedesan Village showed immense enthusiasm, engaging in active discussions regarding the health benefits and the technicalities of production. Beyond health education, the program opened insights into small-scale business opportunities, encouraging the community to utilize easily accessible local ingredients to boost the village economy.

Meet the Team Behind the Innovation

The YONARIA project was spearheaded by a dedicated group of Biology Education students: Nimas Pratiwi, Rahmadhani Inas Salsabila, Safinatuz Aidatul Umah, Sekar Mayang Arum, Sheila Az-Zahra, Silfia Riva Nurzelin, and Zahra Nazihah Puspita Sari. The team operated under the expert supervision of Nurmiyati, S.Pd., M.Si.

A Vision for Sustainable Health

“Through this program, we aim to bridge the gap between laboratory science and daily community needs,” stated a representative from the YONARIA team. The project serves as a dual-purpose platform: fostering public awareness of healthy consumption while sharpening the students’ entrepreneurial and social-contribution skills.

By strengthening the synergy between universities and society, the Biology Education Study Program continues to prove that academic research can be a practical catalyst for a healthier and more creative environment.