Research, Service and Collaboration

Pasuruan, December 10, 2024 — In an effort to strengthen the character of the young generation and realize the ideals of an independent and competitive nation, the activities of the Pancasila Student Profile Strengthening Project (P5) are in the spotlight again. One of the implementations was shown in a guest lecture with the theme "P5 Activities: Healthy Food Based on Local Wisdom" held at the SMAN 1 Bangil-Pasuruan Hall. This event is led by Prof. Dr. Ir. Elfi Anis Saati, MP., a food and nutrition expert as well as the Head of the Halal Product Research & Development Study Center of Muhammadiyah University Malang (UMM).

This festive event was attended by around 430 students from SMAN 1 Bangil-Pasuruan and SMA Taruna Madani I East Java. In addition, the event was also filled with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between SMAN 1 Bangil-Pasuruan, Muhammadiyah Malang University, and the APSAI Community (Indonesian Adiwiyata School Development Action) Malang Raya. The signing was done directly by the Principal of SMAN 1 Bangil, Dr. H. Imron Rosidi, M.Pd., together with the Board of Professors of UMM, Prof. Dr. Tobroni, M.Si., and Drs. Samsudin, M.Si. as a representative of APSAI.

Instilling Character Based on Local Wisdom

In her presentation, Prof. Elfi Anis Saati emphasized the importance of utilizing local wisdom as an integral part of strengthening the character of the young generation. The material delivered includes the superiority of local natural resources as well as innovation in the processing of food and non-food products. For example, local rose flowers from Bangil-Pasuruan can be processed into a high antioxidant drink, while the moringa plant can be an additive to analog rice with a high protein, iron, and pro-vitamin A content.

"Local wisdom not only preserves cultural identity, but also becomes an innovative solution to answer healthy and sustainable food needs. By understanding the local biodiversity, the younger generation can create regional superior products that are able to compete globally," said Prof. Elfi. She also highlighted the importance of using organic waste, such as dragon fruit peel, which can be processed into a source of fiber and natural dyes for products such as jelly or nuggets.

Synergy of Education and Community Service

This activity is part of the "Professor Back to Alumnus" program, an initiative from Muhammadiyah University of Malang that connects professors with their almamaters. This program not only aims to strengthen the relationship between schools and universities, but also integrates the values of the Tri Dharma of Higher Education in a tangible form. UMM, which has been recognized as an Excellent Private University, continues to show its commitment in community service through innovation and collaboration.

As one of the leading universities with superior accreditation and various international awards, UMM also offers internship opportunities at home and abroad. This program paves the way for students to compete at the global level while still rooted in local wisdom.

Facing Demographic Bonus with Innovation

Indonesia is currently at the peak of the demographic bonus, where the proportion of the population of productive age reaches the highest level. This is an opportunity as well as a challenge. The high unemployment rate of college graduates, which reached 12,49%, shows the need for additional skills to support national targets, especially in food and energy security.

"The younger generation must be equipped with science and technology skills, digital skills, and foreign language proficiency. However, more than that, they need to love their nation by recognizing and utilizing local biological wealth," said Prof. Elfi.

In the discussion session, many participants enthusiastically asked questions about the extraction method of natural materials, challenges in the utilization of organic waste, to the prospects of processed products based on local wisdom. Professor. Elfi answered the question by providing research-based insights that she has done for more than two decades, including projects that have received awards from DIKTI and international institutions.

Collaboration for a Sustainable Future

In addition to being a place to share knowledge, this activity also aims to open up opportunities for sustainable cooperation between schools, universities, and communities. By involving various elements, such as teachers, students, and the community, it is hoped that this program can give a broad positive impact.

The closing of the event was marked by great expectations from Prof. Elfi so that the results of research and innovation that have been produced not only stop in Malang, but also can be implemented in Bangil-Pasuruan. "Bangil-Pasuruan has great potential to become a religious and educational tourism city. With the right development, we can realize the welfare of the community while preserving the environment," she concluded.

This event is a real proof that the synergy between the world of education and the community can be the driving force of sustainable development. With the spirit of gotong royong and innovation based on local wisdom, the ideal of a healthy and prosperous Indonesia is getting closer to reality. (red/dik)