Empowering Rural Communities in Papua: Exploring Village Fund Management Socialization in Tablasupa, Jayapura

: This study investigates the effectiveness of training and socialization on village fund management in Tablasupa Village, Jayapura Regency, and its impact on participants' understanding of village fund management concepts and regulations. The uniqueness of Tablasupa Village as a case study lies in its rural setting and distinct socio-economic characteristics. By focusing on Tablasupa Village, this research presents a localized perspective on village fund management, emphasizing the need for tailored approaches that consider the specific needs and dynamics of rural areas. Prior to the training, participants had limited knowledge regarding key areas such as the definition of RPJMK (Regional Medium-Term Development Plan), the Village Law, types of village income, reporting of activity/program results, and accountability. However, after the training and discussions, participants showed significant improvement in their ability to answer questions correctly, indicating the effectiveness of the training. The study suggests that the training has practical implications in enhancing participants' understanding of financial management practices and empowering rural communities. However, it is important to consider the limitations of the study, such as its narrow focus on Tablasupa Village and the constraints of time and resources. Therefore, future research should encompass a larger sample size and explore multiple locations to obtain a more comprehensive understanding of village fund management in a broader context.


INTRODUCTION
The effective management of village finances plays a pivotal role in ensuring the optimal utilization of funds, with both village officials and community participation being key contributors to this process. Community participation, as defined by Foster (2017), involves the active involvement of the community in all developmental activities, enabling them to contribute to and benefit from the outcomes of such initiatives. In the context of kampung in Papua, community participation holds significant potential for shaping financial management practices and fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility among villagers.
Drawing from the perspectives of Yabbar & Hamzah (2015), the implementation of Law No. 6 of 2014 incorporates two approaches: "Desa Membangun" (Village Development) and "Membangun Desa" (Developing the Village), which are seamlessly integrated into village development planning. This integration necessitates the formulation of development plans by individual kampung in alignment with their respective jurisdictions, while referring to the broader district/city development plans. These plans consist of Medium-Term Village Development Plans (RPJMK) and Village Development Plans (RPK), which subsequently serve as the basis for formulating the Village Revenue and Expenditure Budget (APBK). Understanding how these planning processes and budgeting frameworks are implemented at the village level is crucial to exploring the intricacies of financial management in Papuan kampung.
With villages acting as the fundamental building blocks of governance and the primary providers of services to their respective communities, the effective management of financial resources is paramount (Handayati & Palil, 2020;Putri et al., 2023;Santoso et al., 2017). This encompasses the planning and execution of various programs and activities, as well as ensuring transparent accountability for both physical and financial aspects (Diansari et al., 2023;Sofyani et al., 2022). Village officials and residents, being integral components of the developmental process (Sara et al., 2023), therefore require adequate knowledge and understanding of financial management in the context of kampung administration. Equipping them with the necessary skills and insights will not only enhance their decision-making capabilities but also contribute to the overall development and welfare of the community (Arifin et al., 2020;Hartojo et al., 2022;Viverita et al., 2022).
Consequently, the implementation of community engagement initiatives that focus on socializing financial management within villages, targeting both village officials and residents, becomes essential. By providing comprehensive and accessible training and knowledge-sharing platforms, such initiatives can empower individuals and foster a collaborative environment where the principles of effective financial management can be understood and applied (World Bank, 2017). Furthermore, these initiatives can promote transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in the financial management practices of kampung, ensuring that the allocated funds are utilized efficiently and in line with the developmental objectives of the community.
Limited research has been conducted on the socialization of financial management in rural communities, especially in the context of Kampung in Papua (see, for example, Lestari et al., 2023;Suripatty & Ferdinandus, 2020). While the importance of community participation and effective financial management in village development has been acknowledged, there is a lack of comprehensive studies that specifically examine the implementation, effectiveness, and outcomes of financial management socialization initiatives in kampung. Therefore, there is a need to bridge this research gap and gain insights into the specific challenges faced by Tablasupa Village and the potential impact of financial management socialization on rural community development.
The novelty of this research lies in its focus on empowering rural communities through financial management socialization. By examining the case of Tablasupa Village, this study aims to shed light on the unique dynamics and factors influencing the socialization of financial management in a rural setting. The research will explore the effectiveness of current socialization efforts, identify any gaps or shortcomings, and propose strategies for enhancing community participation and financial management practices in kampung. The findings from this study can contribute to the existing literature on community development, financial management, and governance in rural areas, particularly in the context of kampung in Papua.
This research aims to fill the research gap by investigating the socialization of financial management in Tablasupa Village and offers novelty by focusing on empowering rural communities through financial management socialization. The study will provide valuable insights into the challenges, opportunities, and potential impacts of financial management socialization in Kampung, ultimately contributing to the sustainable development and resilience of rural communities.
In light of the unique socio-cultural and environmental contexts of kampung in Papua, conducting research on the socialization of financial management in these settings is crucial (Kareth et al., 2021). By gaining insights into the challenges, practices, and successes of financial management in Papua's kampung, policymakers, government bodies, and other stakeholders can formulate targeted strategies and interventions that are responsive to the specific needs and aspirations of these communities. Ultimately, this research aims to contribute to the economic development and improved well-being of kampung in Papua through the enhancement of financial management practices and community engagement.

Exploring the Unique Setting of Tablasupa, Jayapura
Tablasupa, Jayapura offers a unique setting that makes it important to be studied in the context of village fund management. Firstly, Tablasupa is located in a remote rural area in Jayapura Regency, Papua. Its geographical conditions and remoteness create distinct challenges in village fund management and development in the region. Conducting a study in Tablasupa can provide insights into how village fund management can be adapted and tailored to unique geographical and social conditions like this.
Secondly, the cultural and ethnic diversity in Tablasupa is intriguing to explore. Papua is known for its rich cultural and ethnic diversity, and Tablasupa is one area where various tribes and communities coexist. This aspect influences the dynamics of village fund management and raises questions about how cultural and diversity factors play a role in decision-making and the implementation of development programs in the village.
Thirdly, Tablasupa also serves as a strategic location to study the implementation of government regulations and policies related to village fund management. In this research, the village fund management in Tablasupa is examined based on the Ministry of Home Affairs Regulation No. 20 of 2018 on Village Fund Management. By examining how this regulation is implemented in Tablasupa, the study can provide a better understanding of the effectiveness and challenges in implementing such policies at the village level.
Considering these factors, Tablasupa, Jayapura becomes a unique and important setting to be studied in the context of village fund management. Research in this area can offer deeper insights and understanding about village fund management in remote rural areas, the influence of cultural diversity on decision-making, and the implementation of government regulations and policies at the village level.

Analytical Techniques and Data Collection
The research methodology employed in this study aims to empower rural communities in Tablasupa Village by exploring the socialization of financial management. It involves a comprehensive and participatory approach to ensure the effective dissemination of knowledge and skills related to village fund management practices.
The research will adopt both qualitative and participatory action research methods to gain in-depth insights into the current financial management practices and identify areas for improvement. The qualitative approach will involve data collection through interviews, observations, and document analysis. This will allow for a deeper understanding of the perceptions, experiences, and challenges faced by village officials and community members regarding financial management. Community Leader 3 17.00 Female Figure  2 11.00 Youth Figure  1 6.00 Source: Author's Document (2022) The participatory action research component will involve active involvement and collaboration between the researchers, village officials, and community members (see Table 1). Through workshops, focus group discussions, and interactive sessions, participants will have the opportunity to share their perspectives, exchange ideas, and cocreate solutions to enhance financial management practices in Tablasupa Village.
The research will also include a comprehensive review of relevant legislation, policies, and guidelines related to village fund management at the national and local levels. This will provide a contextual framework for understanding the existing legal framework and its implications for financial management in Tablasupa Village.
The research participants will include village officials, members of the Village Consultative Body (Bamuskam), community leaders, and other stakeholders involved in village governance and financial management. A purposive sampling technique will be employed to ensure the inclusion of diverse perspectives and experiences.
Data analysis will be conducted using thematic analysis to identify common themes, patterns, and emerging issues related to financial management. The findings will be presented in a descriptive and analytical manner, providing a comprehensive overview of the current financial management practices, challenges, and opportunities for improvement in Tablasupa Village.

Details on Training Material Delivery
The training conducted in Tablasupa Village, Jayapura Regency, aimed to empower rural communities by exploring financial management socialization. The material presented during the training was based on the Ministry of Home Affairs Regulation No. 20 of 2018 on Village fund management. The focus of the training was on the principles of village fund management, the holders of village fund management authority, and the implementation of village fund management, which included planning, implementation, bookkeeping, reporting, and accountability.
By providing training on village fund management, the aim was to enhance the understanding and capacity of the participants in effectively managing the financial resources of the village. The principles of village fund management served as a guideline for the participants to ensure transparency, accountability, and proper utilization of funds.
The training emphasized the importance of identifying the holders of village fund management authority, who play a crucial role in managing the financial affairs of the village. These individuals need to possess the necessary knowledge and skills to carry out their responsibilities effectively.
The implementation of village fund management was discussed in detail, covering various aspects such as planning, implementation, bookkeeping, reporting, and accountability. Proper planning ensures that the financial resources are allocated appropriately and in line with the development goals of the village. The participants were encouraged to develop comprehensive plans that consider the needs and priorities of the community.
Effective implementation involves executing the planned activities in a timely and efficient manner. The participants were guided on the importance of monitoring the progress of projects and ensuring that the allocated funds are used as intended. Bookkeeping practices were highlighted to emphasize the importance of accurate and transparent financial records.
Reporting was discussed as a means to provide stakeholders with an overview of the financial management activities and outcomes. The participants were encouraged to prepare regular reports that reflect the financial status of the village and highlight the achievements and challenges faced during the implementation process.
Accountability was emphasized as a fundamental aspect of village fund management. The participants were reminded of their responsibility to ensure that the funds are utilized for the intended purposes and that they are answerable to the community for their actions. Transparent and accountable practices help build trust and confidence among the community members.
Overall, the training on village fund management in Tablasupa Village aimed to empower the rural communities by providing them with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively manage their financial resources. The discussions and presentations focused on the principles, holders of authority, and implementation of village fund management, emphasizing transparency, accountability, and proper utilization of funds. By strengthening the financial management practices in the village, it is expected that the community's overall well-being and development will be enhanced.

Question and Answer Session to Explore Village fund management Issues
The findings and discussions of the study depict the interaction between participants and presenters during the training session on village fund management in Tablasupa Village. The Q&A session provided an opportunity for participants to raise questions and share their perspectives on the implementation of village fund management in accordance with government regulations. The questions raised by the participants addressed several significant issues related to financial management at the village level.
In response to Mr. MS's inquiry regarding suggestions for the potential Village-Owned Enterprises (BUMDes) in Tablasupa Village, the presenter emphasized the importance of considering the village's potential when establishing BUMDes/BUMKam. The formation of BUMKam should begin with the creation of business units that can stimulate economic activities and enhance the welfare of the community. The presenter also underscored the need to ensure that the establishment of these business units does not undermine existing businesses within the community. Furthermore, the Department of Economics at the University of Cenderawasih expressed its willingness to support Tablasupa Village in developing BUMKam.
Mr. MS also raised a concern about the local government making changes to the proposed programs/activities approved by the Village Government and requesting village funds as supplementary resources for regional government activities. In response, the presenter clarified that, according to existing regulations, the local government does not have the authority to alter programs/activities that have been jointly approved by the Village Government. However, it is recommended that the local government enhance communication and coordination with the Village Government regarding planned programs/activities for the village. This is crucial to ensure alignment between the village government's objectives and the requests made by the local government for development purposes.
Ms. OR posed a question regarding the mechanism for educational assistance and the responsibilities of the village government and regional government. The presenter explained that the educational assistance provided by the village government through village funds is essentially a subsidy. Education is primarily the responsibility of the government, and the division of tasks and responsibilities in development should be carefully considered. The village government should not bear an excessively large financial burden for activities that fall outside its jurisdiction.
Mr. AA's question pertained to the requirements for student education costs, specifically the Family Welfare Card (KPM) and an Active Enrollment Certificate, with concerns about the use of previous year's documents. The presenter clarified that providing financial assistance for education to students from the village is the obligation of the village government. However, in allocating these funds, considerations of fairness need to be taken into account. Eligible recipients should be active students, substantiated by an active enrollment certificate and Student Identity Card. The active enrollment certificate is issued each semester and can be obtained upon payment of the tuition fee.
Lastly, Ms. HY inquired about the reasons behind not all residents being eligible for Direct Cash Assistance (BLT). In response, the presenter explained that if the BLT is a program implemented by the village government, there are mandatory eligibility criteria to determine who qualifies to receive the assistance.
The discussions and inquiries during the training session played a crucial role in identifying challenges and finding solutions to enhance the effectiveness and impact of village fund management in Tablasupa Village. By addressing these issues, it is hoped that the empowerment of rural communities in Tablasupa Village can be enhanced, leading to sustainable development and improved well-being for its residents.

Training Evaluation Results
The effectiveness of the training program on financial management socialization in Tablasupa Village, Jayapura Regency was evaluated through pre and post-tests administered to the participants. The aim was to assess their understanding of the concepts and regulations related to village fund management. Prior to the training, participants were provided with a range of questions covering different aspects, including the definition of RPJMK (Regional Medium-Term Development Plan), the Village Law, types of village income, reporting of activity/program results, and accountability. The same questions were posed to them after the training to measure their improvement in comprehension (see Appendix 1 which describes the questioning instrument used in this study).
The initial assessment revealed that only 34.26% of the participants provided correct answers, while the remaining 65.74% gave less accurate responses or incorrect answers. This indicates a need for enhanced knowledge and understanding of financial management practices among the participants before the training. However, following the training and subsequent discussions, the average post-test results showed a significant improvement in the participants' ability to answer the questions correctly.
Furthermore, in terms of increased knowledge after the training and discussions, the percentage of participants providing incorrect answers decreased to 20.37%, while 79.63% of the participants answered the questions correctly. This demonstrates a considerable enhancement in participants' understanding of the concepts and regulations related to village fund management. The increase in knowledge percentage serves as a positive indicator of the training's success in improving participants' comprehension.
The training program on financial management socialization in Tablasupa Village has played a crucial role in providing valuable insights and enhancing the participants' understanding of financial management practices. Empowering rural communities through effective financial management is essential for achieving sustainable development and improving the quality of life in Tablasupa Village, Jayapura Regency.

The Role of Socialization Programs in Strengthening Village Fund Management: Insights from Tablasupa Village, Jayapura
This research has several unique findings that differentiate it from similar studies in Indonesia (see, for instance, Harun et al., 2021;Jamal et al., 2023;Nurlinah et al., 2020;Permatasari et al., 2021;Ronaldo & Suryanto, 2022;Sidik & Habibi, 2023;Suandi et al., 2022;Viverita et al., 2022) Firstly, the study focuses on the socialization of village fund management and the empowerment of rural communities in remote villages of Papua, specifically in Tablasupa Village, Jayapura Regency. This research provides valuable insights into the principles of village fund management, the holders of authority in managing the funds, and the implementation of village fund management at the village level. Additionally, the study highlights the importance of transparency, accountability, and proper utilization of funds in the context of village fund management.
Secondly, the research emphasizes the active participation of rural communities in decisionmaking and the implementation of village fund management. Through a question and answer session, participants were given the opportunity to raise questions and share their perspectives on the implementation of village fund management in accordance with government regulations. This facilitated in-depth discussions on significant issues related to financial management at the village level. These findings underscore the importance of collaboration and coordination between the village government and regional government in planning and implementing development programs and activities in the village.
Overall, this research provides a unique contribution to the understanding of village fund management and the empowerment of rural communities in Indonesian villages. By focusing on remote villages in Papua, the study enriches our knowledge of financial management practices in isolated areas and emphasizes the importance of community participation in decision-making processes. The research findings can serve as a foundation for efforts to enhance the effectiveness of village fund management and sustainable development in similar regions across Indonesia.

CONCLUSIONS
This study reveals that through the training and socialization on village fund management in Tablasupa Village, Jayapura Regency, there was an improvement in participants' understanding of the concepts and regulations related to village fund management. Prior to the training, a significant number of participants had an inadequate understanding of key areas such as the definition of RPJMK (Regional Medium-Term Development Plan), the Village Law, types of village income, reporting of activity/program results, and accountability. However, after the training and discussions, participants demonstrated an enhanced ability to answer questions correctly, indicating the effectiveness of the training.
The findings of this study have significant practical implications. The training and socialization on village fund management in Tablasupa Village have provided valuable insights and improved participants' understanding of financial management practices. By empowering rural communities through effective financial management, sustainable development and an improved quality of life can be achieved in Tablasupa Village, Jayapura Regency.
Nevertheless, it is important to acknowledge the limitations of this study. Firstly, the research was conducted solely in Tablasupa Village, Jayapura Regency, limiting the generalizability of the findings to that specific context. Additionally, the study was constrained by limited time and resources, which influenced the depth of analysis. Therefore, further research involving a larger sample size and multiple locations is needed to obtain a more comprehensive understanding of village fund management in a broader geographical area.
This study offers several directions for future research. Firstly, research can be expanded to involve more villages in the Jayapura Regency and even other regions. This would provide a more comprehensive overview of village fund management practices in diverse contexts. Furthermore, future studies can focus on evaluating the impact of the village fund management training, including aspects such as economic growth, improved community well-being, and social changes that occur as a result. Lastly, research can delve deeper into the challenges faced in implementing village fund management practices and explore appropriate solutions to overcome these obstacles.
By continuing this line of research, it is anticipated that village fund management will become more effective and have a positive impact on empowering rural communities, ultimately contributing to sustainable development at the local level.

ACKNOWLEDGMENT
We thank the Faculty of Economics and Business, Cenderawasih University, who contributed to the community service process and writing scientific articles. All statements in this study do not represent the official opinion of any institution

DISCLOSURE OF CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
The author declares no conflict of interest in this research.