Youth Participation in Village Governance: The Role of Former Japanese Internship Alumni in the Agriculture and Livestock Sectors.

Village governance transformation is no longer solely dependent on formal institutional structures but is increasingly influenced by the participation of young generations who bring cross-cultural and technological experiences—particularly those gained abroad. This study highlights the contribution of youth who are alumni of Japanese internship programs in the dynamics of rural development, with a focus on the agricultural and livestock sectors in Selaawi Subdistrict, Garut Regency. These alumni not only return with technical skills but also embody values of productive work, discipline, and innovation acquired during their time in Japan. Using a qualitative approach through interviews and direct observation, the study reveals emerging patterns of youth participation in strengthening local institutions, managing resources, and initiating productive ventures for young farmers in rural areas. The main findings indicate that the presence of internship alumni contributes to the emergence of a more responsive, collaborative, and locally innovative governance model. The study also underscores that successful transformation depends not only on individual capacity but also on a supportive and adaptive socio-institutional environment. Within the policy framework of Indonesia’s vision for food self-sufficiency as outlined by President Prabowo, the involvement of rural youth holds a strategic role in enhancing national food security.