Title: Sanskrit Language Education for the Community: A Strategic Collaboration between UHN I Gusti Bagus Sugriwa Denpasar and the Dvip?ntara Sa?sk?tam Foundation
Authors: I Gede Suwantana, I Komang Suastika Arimbawa, I Made Adi Brahman, I Made Suyasa, I Wayan Manek Astawa, Ni Wayan Sri Prabawati Kusuma Dewi
Volume: 9
Issue: 7
Pages: 179-188
Publication Date: 2025/07/28
Abstract:
This community service program aims to enhance Sanskrit literacy among the general public through a strategic collaboration between UHN I Gusti Bagus Sugriwa Denpasar and the Dvip?ntara Sa?sk?tam Foundation. Sanskrit, as the classical language of Hinduism, carries profound historical, philosophical, and spiritual value; however, its mastery remains limited to academic circles. This initiative is designed to open access to Sanskrit learning for the wider community through participatory methods, a thematic approach based on ?loka texts, and the use of digital technology. Participants came from diverse age groups and educational backgrounds, demonstrating high enthusiasm for the materials and methods taught. The main impact of the program is seen in the improvement of participants' abilities to read, write, and understand simple Sanskrit texts, as well as a growing awareness of dharma values and Hindu cultural heritage. Challenges such as limited study time and varying levels of participant comprehension were overcome through a modular approach and intensive mentoring. This program demonstrates that classical language education can serve as a sustainable medium for strengthening the community's spiritual and cultural identity.