DIGITALIZATION OF INDEPENDENT AND SUSTAINABLE VILLAGES BASED ON LOCAL WISDOM

Abstract

South Sulawesi, specifically Takalar Regency, has 86 underdeveloped villages. Various government efforts to develop villages to become independent include implementing digitalization in the administrative systems of every village office. Research conducted in the first year has reflected that local wisdom and the value of mutual cooperation have begun to fade, so it is important that this research be continued to digitize villages in Takalar Regency based on local wisdom. The urgency of this research is seen from various problems that arise, such as limited internet access in some villages that hinders the implementation of digital services, low digital literacy among various stakeholders, and the lack of an integrated village information system. The purpose of this study is to analyze and develop the implementation of village digitalization to facilitate access to information and administration in village offices in Takalar Regency and to create independent and sustainable villages without neglecting local identity. The research method used is qualitative with a phenomenological approach. Data collection andThe data used were observation, interviews, and documentation. In addition, focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted involving 75 informants, including 25 village officials, 20 traditional leaders, and 30 village residents. Data analysis employed the Miles and Huberman interactive analysis model, consisting of data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The data was also supported by the Atlas TI measurement tool. The results of this study indicate that digitalization aligned with local wisdom can improve village social and economic resilience. Several indicators demonstrating positive impacts include increased citizen participation in digital deliberations, increased income for local business actors, efficiency of village administrative services, and the emergence of technology-based social innovations. The researchers emphasized the importance of long-term mentoring and regular evaluation to ensure that the digitalization process remains within the framework of sustainable development that does not ignore local values.