Through the Bureau of Cooperation and Public Relations (BKH), Universitas PGRI Madiun (UNIPMA) initiated a strategic step by exploring plans for collaboration with Rumah Atsiri Indonesia in Tawangmangu, Karanganyar, on Friday (6/2). This meeting aimed to expand academic networks oriented toward applied research and strengthening students’ practical experience.

The UNIPMA delegation was led directly by the Vice Rector for Division IV, Dr. Jeffry Handika, M.Pd., accompanied by the BKH team. Their presence was warmly welcomed by Fira, the Person in Charge (PIC) of Rumah Atsiri Indonesia, who expressed full openness to synergy with higher education institutions.

Fira explained that Rumah Atsiri is currently not only engaged in the creative industry and tourism sectors, but also places great emphasis on product innovation development. “We also focus on the sustainable utilization of biological resources so that they provide long-term added value,” she said.

In response, Dr. Jeffry Handika, M.Pd., stated that the collaboration would be directed toward joint research and student internship programs. “This cooperation opens opportunities for students, especially from the Biology Education, Physics Education, Science Education, and Pharmacy study programs. These disciplines are highly relevant to the development of essential oil plants and their various derivative products,” he said.

This initiation is a tangible step by UNIPMA in carrying out the transformation of higher education as an “Impactful Campus.” In line with the direction of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (Kemdiktisaintek), universities are required to become active actors in solving economic and environmental issues.

The Head of BKH UNIPMA, Dr. Sri Lestari, S.Pd., M.Pd., highlighted the richness of the learning ecosystem at Rumah Atsiri. According to her, this partnership represents a balanced space for synergy. “Rumah Atsiri provides a rich learning ecosystem, while UNIPMA brings intellectual capacity and innovation. This is a productive exchange of values to produce research outputs with broad impact for society,” she said.

This meeting marked the beginning of a long-term collaboration that prioritizes professionalism and institutional equality. Both parties are committed to promptly formulating concrete programs that not only enhance academic quality, but also serve as a catalyst for the growth of industries based on local potential in support of the Indonesia Golden Vision 2045.

For more complete information regarding campus activities, please visit UNIPMA’s official Instagram account at @official_unipma. UNIPMA has also opened new student admissions for the 2025/2026 academic year. Registration for new students in the Regular and RPL programs for the 2025/2026 academic year is also open.