Strengthening Santri Husada Cadres as Peer Educators in Anemia Prevention in Pondok Pesantren Setting

Abstract

Like many other Islamic boarding schools (pondok pesantren), this institution provides dormitory facilities and meals for its students, yet animal-based protein is served only once a week. A community health screening conducted in 2024 revealed that 41% of participating students were suspected of having anemia. In response, we implemented a community service program to improve adolescent health by empowering kader santri husada (student health cadres) as peer educators for anemia prevention. This community development program involved education on anemia and educational media, the development of educational media, and peer-led education sessions. A total of 72.7% of cadres completed the training, producing two educational media outputs. Female cadres subsequently conducted anemia and iron supplementation (TTD) education for 60 female students, followed by a collective TTD consumption activity. This initiative shows that student health cadres can act as agents of change in pondok pesantren. Future programs should incorporate pre- and post-tests during peer education sessions and establish routine activities to reduce anemia prevalence among students.