UNAIR NEWS – In pursuit of its internationalization objectives, Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR), through Airlangga Global Engagement (AGE), launched the Airlangga Global Program in collaboration with the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences (FPK). The program welcomed students from Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) to participate in hands-on fisheries studies at FPK from December 2 to 7, 2024.
During the program, UMT students attended lectures at FPK and engaged in practical workshops, including aquascape creation and the preparation of wontons using fishery products. The agenda also included visits to seaweed farms, freshwater fish cultivation sites, and a cultural tour of Batu City.
The initiative aimed to introduce FPK to international students, bolster UNAIR’s global recognition, and attract international students to pursue academic programs at the university. It also served to advance Indonesia’s fisheries sector through international collaboration.
Positive first impressions
Khairul Azri Azhari, a UMT student and AGP participant, shared his positive impressions of UNAIR. He commended the university for its outstanding facilities and supportive academic environment.
“I was surprised to learn that UNAIR has a faculty dedicated to fisheries and marine sciences. At UMT, we have a similar faculty, but as a non-fisheries student, this program has given me a deeper understanding of fisheries,” he remarked.
Broadening knowledge
Azhari highlighted the program’s visit to the Rejeki Bintang Samudera seaweed farm in Sidoarjo as a particularly enlightening experience. He gained insights into the potential of seaweed across various industries.
“We explored different types of seaweed and its applications in culinary and cosmetic fields. We also visited aquaculture sites for catfish and tilapia and learned about fish feed production, which is a vital component of sustainable fish farming,” he explained.
Takeaways
Azhari expressed appreciation for the program, emphasizing how it provided him with fresh perspectives on fisheries and valuable insights into Indonesian society. He also reflected on the personal growth he experienced while studying at UNAIR.
“As young people, we should not confine ourselves to our comfort zones. Programs like AGP offer an excellent opportunity to explore new fields and gain knowledge. It’s a stepping stone for personal and professional growth,” he concluded.
Penulis: Rifki Sunarsis Ari Adi
Editor: Khefti Al Mawalia
