UMS Chemical Engineering Students Visit National Research and Industry Institutions

Undergraduate students from the Chemical Engineering Program, Faculty of Engineering (FT), Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta (UMS), class of 2022, carried out a Field Practices (KKL) at several institutions. This activity aims to bridge academic theory with real-world practice and is part of the implementation of a competency-based curriculum.

One of the main visits was to the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN). Accompanied by two faculty supervisors,  Denny, S.T., M.EngSc., Ph.D., and Siti Fatimah, S.Si., M.Sc.,  the group of students was warmly welcomed by BRIN representatives.

“They received direct explanations regarding ongoing research projects, particularly in the areas of chemical engineering, process engineering, and renewable energy,” said Denny, Monday (19/5/2025)

UMS Chemical Engineering students carrying out KKL, January 20-22, 2025.

The students also had the chance to tour the laboratories and engage in discussions with researchers. Topics covered included the development of new materials, catalysis processes, separation technologies, and waste treatment. This activity served as a crucial opportunity for students to deepen their understanding of real-world applications of chemical engineering principles.

In addition to BRIN, the students also visited several chemical industry companies in the Banten area, one of which was PT Dover Chemical. At the company, students were introduced to the production processes of industrial chemicals such as paraformaldehyde, formaldehyde resin, and adhesive emulsions.

The visit to PT Dover Chemical provided insights into process management systems, quality control, and occupational safety standards applied in the chemical industry. Students learned firsthand how chemical engineering principles are implemented in a factory setting.

The KKL also included a visit to PLN, where students learned about the role of chemical engineering in the power generation sector. Topics covered included energy conversion, energy management, waste treatment from power generation processes, and challenges in transitioning to renewable energy.

Denny stated that this activity was effective in integrating academic knowledge with practical experience.

“Through the field practices, students can directly observe how the theories they’ve learned are applied in real-world settings,” he explained.

Meanwhile, Siti Fatimah added that the program also served as a platform to build networks between students, educational institutions, and the industrial world.

“We hope that students can learn not only from a technical perspective but also develop their soft skills,” she said.

The students responded positively to the activity, which took place from January 20–22, 2025. They felt that they gained new experiences that cannot be found in the classroom. It is hoped that this field practice will help shape UMS Chemical Engineering graduates to be competent, adaptable, and ready to compete at both the national and global levels.

Writer: Yusuf Ismail

Editor: Fika Annisa Sholihah

Translator: Farizal Luqman Majid