DPMA IPB University Discusses Strategic Collaboration with CENTEX Sarawak
The Directorate of Agromaritime Community Development (DPMA) of IPB University conducted a visit to the Centre for Technology Excellence (CENTEX) Sarawak, one of the leading technology training and certification centers in Malaysia.
This visit aims to explore opportunities for cooperation in community service and research programs, as a strategic step to expand the impact of IPB University’s innovations in the international arena.
Located at the CENTEX building in Kuching, the DPMA IPB University delegation was led by Dr Mohammad Iqbal Irfany as Assistant Director of Social Entrepreneurship. The delegation was welcomed by Dr Nadianatra Binti Musa, Chief Academic Officer Industry and ESG Academy CENTEX Sarawak.
The discussion began with the introduction of IPB University as a research-based higher education institution that prioritizes innovation in community service. Dr Iqbal explained various excellent programs of IPB University, such as the National Community Service Program (KKN).
He also introduced the One Village One CEO (OVOC) program that successfully empowered communities in various regions. In addition, he also explained some of IPB University’s superior innovations in the fields of agricultural, social, and environmental technology.
CENTEX Sarawak then explained their main focus in industry-based technology training and competency certification, with special attention to sustainability integration (ESG). CENTEX Sarawak’s scope of expertise opens up opportunities for strategic collaboration in various community empowerment-based programs and innovative research.
From the discussion, various potential collaborations emerged, one of which was the implementation of KKN programs by IPB University students in the Sarawak region. This program is designed to apply IPB University innovations directly to local communities, according to local needs and characteristics.
This collaboration is in line with the vision of IPB University as a techno-sociopreneur campus that not only focuses on developing cutting-edge technology, but also emphasizes a social approach in every innovation produced.
“With the support of CENTEX Sarawak, programs such as this international KKN are expected to have a significant impact, both for students, cooperation partners, and beneficiary communities,” explained Dr Iqbal.
According to him, this visit is the first step to build closer synergy between IPB University and CENTEX Sarawak, with the aim of expanding the impact of IPB University’s innovation at the global level.
“Further discussions will be held to realize the various opportunities for cooperation that have been agreed upon, so as to support the achievement of sustainable development goals through education, research and community empowerment approaches,” he concluded. (*/Rz) (IAAS/NYS).