Governance Dynamics in SPPG Volunteer Recruitment to Support The Implementation of The Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) Program in Wonorejo District

Abstract

The Free Nutritious Meal Program (MBG) is a national program whose implementation requires adequate human resources at Nutrition Fulfillment Service Units (SPPG). This study aims to analyze the governance of SPPG volunteer recruitment in Wonorejo District and identify its supporting and inhibiting factors. The study uses a descriptive qualitative approach. Data were obtained through observation, interviews, and documentation involving the SPPG Head, a partner, two volunteers, and five residents or prospective applicants. The analysis applies Kooiman’s (2003) governance concept, particularly inter-actor involvement, inter-actor interaction, coordination, the recruitment process, and decision-making. The findings show that recruitment is flexible and based on operational needs. Information is mainly disseminated through WhatsApp, personal relationships, recommendations, village officials, and the surrounding community. Recruitment decisions consider staffing needs, quotas, domicile, experience, ability, and operational conditions. This mechanism helps SPPGs meet staffing needs quickly, but it is not yet fully formal because there is no standardized recruitment SOP and information does not always reach the community equally. Supporting factors include public interest, recruitment flexibility, social networks, and inter-actor coordination, while inhibiting factors include the absence of a recruitment SOP, limited information openness, inconsistent recruitment considerations, and staffing limitations under certain conditions. The study concludes that recruitment governance has operated through interaction and coordination among actors, but needs to be strengthened through more transparent and structured guidelines and mechanisms. Keywords: governance; volunteer recruitment; SPPG; MBG; Kooiman.