Physics Department — Industrial visits to PT Sebalang Berkah and PT Suhita Lebah Indonesia as part of the Department of Physics’ efforts to strengthen collaboration between higher education institutions and the industrial sector.  This activity aligns with the policy of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (Kemdiktisaintek), which encourages research and community service that have a tangible impact on development and public welfare.

The visit, which involved faculty members and students from the Department of Physics at the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA) of Unila, aimed to identify various challenges and technological needs faced by the industry, while also opening opportunities for collaboration in applied research, technology development, and community service programs relevant to on-the-ground needs.

At PT Sebalang Berkah, the delegation gained insight into modern shrimp farming processes, pond water quality management, aeration systems, and the monitoring of environmental parameters—all of which are critical factors in successful production. The discussions that followed opened up opportunities for research collaboration on the development of water quality sensors, Internet of Things (IoT)-based monitoring systems, artificial intelligence for predicting pond conditions, and the use of renewable energy to support more efficient and sustainable aquaculture operations. 

Meanwhile, a visit to PT Suhita Lebah Indonesia provided insights into beekeeping practices, honey production and processing, product quality control, and the challenges faced in maintaining the quality of the final product. Various research opportunities that can be explored include the use of sensor technology to monitor the beekeeping environment, temperature and humidity control systems, the development of honey quality testing instruments, and the application of data analysis and artificial intelligence to improve productivity and product quality.

The Head of the Physics Department at Unila’s Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA) stated that this initiative is a strategic step to ensure that research conducted by the academic community not only results in scientific publications but also provides solutions to real-world problems faced by society and the business sector. Additionally, collaboration with industry is expected to expand opportunities for students to undertake internships, final-year research projects, and field-based experiential learning activities.

Through this visit, the Department of Physics at FMIPA Unila reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the “Diktisaintek Berdampak” program by strengthening synergies between universities and industry. The established collaboration is expected to generate practical technological innovations, enhance the competitiveness of local industries, and make tangible contributions to regional and national development.

This event also serves as an opportunity to strengthen the role of the Department of Physics at FMIPA Unila as a center for the development of science and technology that is responsive to the needs of society and the industrial sector, ensuring that the research and community service outcomes truly provide broad and sustainable benefits.