The Industrial Chemical Engineering Technology (TRKI) study program at the Vocational School of Diponegoro University (Undip) continues to innovate in improving the quality of learning so that its graduates can quickly adapt to the needs and challenges of the current and future world of work. This is due to the demands of modern industry, which increasingly requires superior human resources, both mentally and physically.
The Head of the TRKI Study Program, Mohamad Endy Julianto, stated that higher education is currently required to continuously create breakthroughs in learning methods that are relevant to industry needs. To address these challenges, TRKI is implementing a modified vocational education revitalization approach, which includes an industry-based dual system, a teaching factory integrated with Project-Based Learning (PJBL), a retraining program (retooling), collaboration with industry practitioners, and the involvement of Professional Certification Bodies (LSP).
The results are very real. Many multinational companies come directly to campus to recruit potential employes. In fact, some students have already been accepted for employment even before officially graduating, using only their seven-semester transcripts and competency certifications. Some of these include Eternal Tsingshan Group, PT Jaya Trade Indonesia, PT Sutindo Chemical Indonesia, PT Hailiang Nova Material Indonesia, and PT LBM New Energy Indonesia. Four alumni have even completed three-month work training in China, including Muhammad Zaki Riadhus Shalihin.
Zaki, an alumnus of TRKI Undip, revealed that one of the dreams of many students is to work in a multinational company and gain experience abroad. He is now making that a reality. During his college years, Zaki was active in student organizations, collaborative research with lecturers (such as Dr. Eng. Vita Paramita and Mohamad Endy), funding programs like PWMV, P2MD, PMW, Business Plan competitions and LKTIN, and participated in various training and competency certifications.
Together with the lecturers, he successfully produced 7 intellectual works: 4 simple patents, including those related to the partial hydrolysis process of starch and the composition of hand sanitizer from rice waste, as well as 3 intellectual property rights certificates in the field of chemical technology and food ingredients
With all his experience and achievements, Zaki now works at PT LBM Energi Baru Indonesia, a subsidiary of Lopal Group China, located in the Kendal Industrial Area. This company is involved in the production of LiFePO4 (Lithium Ferro Phosphate)-based electric vehicle battery components – an important part of the national energy transition efforts.
Zaki feels that his career at this company is a valuable first step, especially since he had the opportunity to participate in direct training in Sichuan Province, China. There, he studied the LFP quality testing system, laboratory management, work culture, and various industry-specific work systems in China.
“It’s a great honor to be able to study directly in a country I never imagined I would be able to visit,” said Zaki. He also shared a message for TRKI students to make the most of their study time, especially by actively participating in positive activities on campus.
Regarding job searching, Zaki emphasized the importance of consistency and a never-give-up spirit. Keep sending your CV every day, and make sure there’s progress. “It’s better to be overwhelmed with job offers than to have none at all,” he concluded enthusiastically.