LPKP/East Java Institute for Community Research and Development
LPKP means Institute for Community Research and Development, an NGO that was established in 1988 and certified a year later, after a decision was reached by its key members to formalize what was once a study group - that focuses on limited sociological discussions and lecture tasks of the students of Special Education School, Faculty of Education from the Malang Teachers’ Training College (IKIP) – into a social organization with broad access to East Java’s social problems to become advocates of human development, provide shelter and help the realization of a society free of gender inequality, poverty, oppression and discrimination, working in perspective of improving human rights (children’s rights) gender and environment as well as micro business economy through providing assistance, research and education based on traditional values.
Among the numerous programs implemented by the two divisions who have been delegated of the Institute’s responsibilities - Assessment and Training and Program Development –their focus on farming have been in line with BIRU’s visions of sustainable agriculture. By providing training programs all across East Java ranging from women and children trafficking to clean and water sanitation, BIRU assists in paving the way to improved living conditions by strengthening home industries and local institutions with alternative source of money-saving energy, developing organic fertilizer or even opening up opportunities for women as part of its contribution to urban development and community participation.