Fun Math Learning with the Mathematics Study Program at MTs Negeri 9 Gunungkidul
The Mathematics Study Program at the Faculty of Science and Technology (FST), UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta, conducted a Community Service (PkM) activity at MTs N 9 Gunungkidul, D.I. Yogyakarta, on Wednesday,August 19, 2026. Centered on the theme "Fun Math Learning: Fostering a Love for Mathematics from an Early Age," the eventattended by all 9th-grade students,was designed to introduce a more creative, interactive, and enjoyable approach to learning mathematics. Beyond merely aiming to improve the students' understanding of the subject matter, the activity sought to cultivate their interest in and passion for mathematics.
The UIN Sunan Kalijaga delegation for this event consisted of 15 lecturers and three students. The program began with an opening ceremony attended by all 9th-grade students of MTsN 9 Gunungkidul.
Dr. Epha Diana Supandi, S.Si., M.Sc., Head of the Mathematics Study Program at UIN Sunan Kalijaga, expressed her appreciation and gratitude to MTs N 9 Gunungkidul for the warm welcome and the opportunity granted to the UIN Sunan Kalijaga academic community to carry out this community service initiative.
"Thank you for allowing us to hold this activity at MTsN 9 Gunungkidul as part of fulfilling one of the university's 'Tri Dharma' pillars—sharing knowledge—and I hope this brief event brings blessings to all," she stated.
A positive welcome was also extended by the Principal of MTs N 9 Gunungkidul, Kendah Romi Widiyastuti, S.Pd., M.Si. She welcomed the UIN Sunan Kalijaga delegation and encouraged the students to participate in the entire program with enthusiasm, joy, and confidence.
"Aim for the stars. Even if we fall, we will land among the stars. To my students, enjoy this activity. Show off your abilities; do not be afraid or feel inferior, because we certainly can do it," she told the students. Following the opening ceremony, the event proceeded with a mathematics lesson designed to be highly interactive. Various educational games and quizzes served as learning tools to encourage active student participation. The students' enthusiasm was evident in their engagement throughout every session.
The "Fun Math Learning" activity represents a tangible implementation of the university's "Tri Dharma" mission, specifically in the area of community service. Through a creative and enjoyable teaching approach, UIN Sunan Kalijaga and MTs N 9 Gunungkidul sought to demonstrate that mathematics need not be synonymous with difficult or rigid instruction.
The learning experience gained from this activity is expected to boost students' confidence, alleviate their fear of mathematics, and foster an interest in and love for the subject. Ultimately, mathematics can come to be viewed as a fascinating, enjoyable field of study that is closely connected to everyday life.