The Farmers and Fishermen Center of IPB University and Tompotika University Establish a Collaboration for the Independence Internship Program
The Farmers and Fishermen Center (TNC) of IPB University has recently signed an agreement of collaboration (SPK) with Tompotika University (Untika) in Luwuk, Bunggai, Central Sulawesi, on the subject of the Student Internship Program, Freedom of Learning – Independence Campus (MBKM). The SPK signing took place in the Senate Academic Session Hall at IPB Dramaga Campus, Bogor, on Wednesday (16/8).
Prof Ernan Rustiadi, the Vice Rector of IPB University for Research, Innovation, and Agromaritime Development, warmly welcomed the collaboration between Untika and TNC IPB University. He explained that the main task of TNC IPB University is to provide services, particularly to the farming and fishing communities.
“In line with IPB University’s core competency in the field of agriculture, we have a moral responsibility to accompany farmers. This means that, if there are farmers in need of services, the first door that is wide open is at TNC IPB University,” explained Prof Ernan.
One of the initiatives that is currently being pursued by TNC IPB University is Digitani, a platform application aimed for communication and consultation between the community, especially farmers, and experts at IPB University in the field of agriculture and rural development. Anyone who is in need of comprehensive agricultural services can make use of the Digitani application.
“The essence of MBKM is a breakthrough in the education system in Indonesia, aiming to bring both the academic and practical world closer together. At TNC IPB University, students are not limited to internships, but they are also given the opportunity to learn and work at the same time. We also welcome other collaborations beyond the MBKM program,” he stated.
Dr Isnanto Bidja, the Vice Rector for Administration and Academics of Untika Luwuk, mentioned that they came with six students who will participate in the internship program for approximately one semester.
“We are still learning a lot from university clusters, one of them being IPB University. Our hope regarding this collaboration is to exceed the mere sharing of knowledge and encompass the sharing of experiences as well. There is no such thing as being too late for the development of knowledge, and through the MBKM program, students have the opportunity to learn beyond their campus,” he explained.
He also mentioned that the students of Untika Luwuk are very fortunate to be given the chance to participate in the MBKM program. Dr Isnanto emphasized that they should make good use of it while upholding the reputation and name of their alma mater.
“As a small higher education institution in the region, we greatly hope for guidance, input, and direction from IPB University to provide the transfer of knowledge and experience. My hope is that this collaboration goes beyond just MBKM and expands into cooperation in other fields such as research that directly involves the resources possessed by Central Sulawesi Province,” he concluded. (Lp/Rz) (IAAS/ZRT)
