<![CDATA[Black rice (Oryza sativa L.) has potential as a functional food because it contains anthocyanins and other bioactive compounds; however, its cultivation at the farmer level remains limited, partly due to limited knowledge of appropriate cultivation practices. This community engagement activity aimed to improve the knowledge and skills of the Kenconowungu Farmer Group in Sumbersalak Village, Ledokombo District, Jember Regency, in implementing black rice cultivation technologies through socialization, a demonstration plot, and assistance during one growing season from July to September 2026. The demonstration plot consisted of local Banjarnegara black rice and Menthik Susu as a white rice comparison, using technologies including 25 × 25 cm planting spacing, seed imbibition with KNO₃ solution, Leaf Color Chart (LCC/BWD) based nitrogen management, and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) principles. Evaluation through pretest and posttest involving 25 farmers showed an increase in the average percentage of correct responses from 33.2% to 86.0%. Improvements were observed across all evaluated indicators, including seed selection, planting techniques, and fertilization, while pest and disease management showed the lowest posttest percentage. The results indicate that a combination of socialization, hands on practice through a demonstration plot, and field assistance can improve farmers' understanding of black rice cultivation technologies. Further development of black rice cultivation at the farmer group level requires improved access to reliable seed sources and markets for the harvested product.]]>
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