Fakultas Pertanian Universitas Gadjah Mada (Faperta UGM) continues to Play an Active Role in the Inter-University Flagship Program (PUAPT), particularly through the Food Security Working Group (WG). One of its main focuses is the development of research and innovation in the production of nutrient-rich and environmentally friendly rice, including the advancement of the food industry and agricultural down streaming. Flagship products, such as fortified rice to prevent stunting, are part of these efforts and align with Indonesia’s food security goals.
To support this development, the PUAPT Team from the Faperta UGM conducted a visit to the Department of Food Technology and the Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Thailand. The visit was attended by Ir. Jaka Widada, M.P., Ph.D., Prof. Dr. Ir. Irham, M.Sc., Prof. Subejo S.P., M.Sc., Ph.D., and Dewanti Cahya Widi, M.Eng., who participated in a series of workshops, laboratory benchmarking, and knowledge-sharing sessions with academics and researchers from Chulalongkorn University.
The workshop began with an introduction to the organizational structure, facilities, and research focuses of the Department of Microbiology and the Department of Food Technology. During this session, both the Faperta UGM and Chulalongkorn University presented their leading research topics, such as the development of microbes for food biotechnology and innovations in local-based food processing technology.
The next agenda was a laboratory tour at the Food Technology Department, including visits to the Food Product Development Laboratory, Food Quality Assurance Laboratory, Sensory Evaluation Laboratory, and the Mini Plant Food Production. This tour provided direct insights into the use of advanced technologies, sensory analysis, and small-scale production simulations, which are relevant to be adapted within Faperta UGM.
The agenda continued with a discussion with Prof. Dr. Pranut Potiyaraj, Dean of the Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, focusing on potential research collaborations, student exchange programs, double degree initiatives, and strategic steps to strengthen inter-university partnerships.
The outcomes of this visit include new knowledge related to food technology, product down streaming, and laboratory management, which will be assessed for potential development at the Faperta UGM. This activity also marks an important step in building international networks, enhancing food technology innovation, and supporting national sustainability and food security.
This workshop reflects the commitment of the Faperta UGM to continue innovating and contributing to the achievement Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 1: No Poverty, SDG 2: Zero Hunger, SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.
Authors: Dewanti Cahya Widi, Agrit Kirana Bunda, Naomi Cahaya Dewi
Editor: Desi Utami