All manuscripts submitted to KJCDT: Kepanjen Journal of Community Development & Transformation undergo a rigorous peer-review process to ensure the quality, originality, relevance, and contribution of the published articles. The journal is committed to maintaining high academic standards through a fair, objective, and transparent review system.

Initial Editorial Screening

Upon submission, each manuscript is evaluated by the editorial team to determine its suitability with the journal’s focus and scope, compliance with author guidelines, originality, and overall quality. Manuscripts that do not meet the journal’s requirements may be returned to the authors for revision or rejected before entering the peer-review process.

Double-Blind Peer Review

Manuscripts that pass the initial editorial screening are assigned to at least two independent reviewers who have expertise in the relevant subject area. The journal applies a Double-Blind Peer Review process, in which the identities of both authors and reviewers are concealed to ensure an impartial and unbiased evaluation.

Review Criteria

Reviewers assess manuscripts based on several criteria, including:

• Originality and innovation of the community service program.
• Relevance to the journal’s focus and scope.
• Significance and practical impact on community development and transformation.
• Clarity of objectives and problem identification.
• Appropriateness of methods and implementation strategies.
• Quality of analysis and discussion.
• Validity of conclusions and outcomes.
• Adequacy and relevance of references.
• Overall quality of writing and presentation.

Reviewers’ Recommendations

Based on their evaluation, reviewers may recommend one of the following decisions:

• Accept without revisions.
• Accept with minor revisions.
• Accept with major revisions.
• Reject.

The editor considers the reviewers’ comments and recommendations before making a publication decision.

Revision Process

Authors may be requested to revise their manuscripts in response to reviewers’ and editors’ comments. Revised manuscripts must be resubmitted within the specified timeframe and accompanied by a response explaining how the comments have been addressed.

Where necessary, revised manuscripts may be sent back to the reviewers for further evaluation.

Final Decision

The final decision regarding acceptance, revision, or rejection of a manuscript is made by the Editor-in-Chief based on the reviewers’ reports, the quality of the revised manuscript, and the journal’s publication standards.

Confidentiality

All manuscripts and review reports are treated as confidential documents. Editors and reviewers must not disclose, discuss, or use any information contained in submitted manuscripts for personal benefit or purposes unrelated to the review process.

Conflict of Interest

Reviewers must inform the editor and decline the review assignment if any conflict of interest exists that could influence their judgment. Editors will ensure that manuscripts are reviewed objectively and fairly.

Commitment to Ethical Review

KJCDT: Kepanjen Journal of Community Development & Transformation is committed to conducting an ethical, professional, and constructive peer-review process that supports academic excellence and contributes to the advancement of community service, community empowerment, and sustainable social transformation.