UNAIR NEWS – Advanced countries always develop their aeronautics and space independently. The statement was made by the Chairman of Indonesian National Institute Aeronautics and Space (LAPAN), Prof. Dr. Thomas Djamaluddin M.Sc., during a public lecture in Adi Sukadana Hall, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (FISIP), Universitas Airlangga on Friday, March 3.

Thomas delivered a lecture on “Aeronautic and Space Science and Technology to Realize Advanced and Independent Indonesia” in presence of students and lecturers of FISIP, and the Dean of FISIP. The lecture was moderated by a lecturer of International Relations Department, Joko Susanto, M.Sc.

The chairman of LAPAN explained that Indonesia needs to be independent in this field. For example, Indonesian government has bought satellites from other countries when our experts can make our own satellites.

“Actually, Indonesia has everything. The experts, the skills but the problem is in funding,” said Thomas.

Beside public lecture, UNAIR and LAPAN have signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA). It was signed by the Chairman of LAPAN and the Dean of FISIP UNAIR in Cakra Global Strategic Studies (CSGS), a center of studies in FISIP UNAIR.

Thomas said that his unit needs recommendations on international policy from the academicians of FISIP UNAIR. “LAPAN understands the substances, but we need support for the study aspects, therefore LAPAN is looking for a partner from the university for this aspect,” said the chairman of LAPAN.

In his address, Dean of FISIP, Dr. Falih Suaedi, Drs., M.Si said that Indonesia has not been independent, especially in space technology. Falih appreciates the International Relations department who organized the event.

The collaboration in three different programs will be valid for three years. They are public lecture, scientific journals composition and research publications. LAPAN also gives opportunity to FISIP students to hold field practice (PKL) and internship in the institute.

“With this public lecture, we will gain more knowledge on space and the technology,” said one of the students attending the public lecture.

Author: Ainul Fitriyah

Editor: Defrina Sukma S