Evaluation of the Family Welfare Movement (Pembomaam Lesejahteraan Keluarga) as an instrument of rural development in Jambi, Indonesia
Date
1997
Authors
Hernawati Wibawati Retno Wiratih
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Abstract
This study sought to evaluate the p[erformances of the Family Welfare Movement (PKK) in the urban and rural villages of both the Jambi and SARKO Districts of Jambi Province, Indonesia. Additionally, it aimed to establish possible differences in terms of aggregate demographic characteristics of PKK-village Executive Committee (PKK-VEC), mean PKK-Village Characteristics (PKK-VC), including their performance as a PKK organization. And lastly, the study sought to determine which among the units of analysis/characteristics would significantly influence PKK performance.
The study was conducted in thirteen urban villages (kelurahan) and two rural villages (desa) in Jambi District; and in thirteen rural villages and two urban villages in SARKO District, from March to May, 1996. Data were gathered using a pre-tested interview schedule. Frequency distribution, mean, percentage, t-test, and multiple regression analysis were used for purposes of this study.
Results, revealed that among six (6) variables of PKK-VECm only the variable years of schooling had a significant difference. The mean years of schooling of PKK-VEC in Jambi District was higher than those in SARKO District; and. in urban villages higher than those in rural villages.
Furthermore, the study revealed three (3) core indicators differentiating kelurahan from desa, namely: higher years of schooling, higher percentage of government workers, and higher number of households per village.
Generally speaking, the study also found out that the performance of PKK in the urban areas were significantly better than that in the rural areas.
The study further disclosed that A and B-Packages offered by PKK were found very useful in helping the government reduce illiteracy. Likewise, the Village Integrated Health Services (POSYANDU) was also found useful in achieving good health for pregnant mothers and babies.
Finally, type of community was found the most powerful among independent variables in influencing PKK performance which is indicative of the urban areas having better resources and facilities compared with the rural areas.
Since the respondents believed that PKK is an effective instrument for rural development, the study then suggests continuity of the PKK program. Specifically, the study suggests that PKK continue promoting guidance, mass work, food extension, as well as clothing, housing and household management program for the PKK members in the rural areas. In addition, the PKK-VEC should continue emphasizing and motivating their member's regarding environment sustainability and rational planning programs.
Based on the fact that every POSYANDU in the rural areas serves a greater number of pregnant mothers and babies, this study recommends that the government establish additional POSYANDU in the rural areas. Finally, the finding that type of community was the most powerful variable influencing PKK performance suggests that the government pays more attention to the facilities and infrastructure needs of the rural areas.