Navy Deputy Chief of Staff, Admiral Didit Herdiawan, M.P.A., M.B.A, said technology has influenced immensely to human lives through various ways. Science and technology have changed the world, for Indonesia, these have changed it from agrarian to maritime approach. But technology has also brought side-effects, including pollution and depleted natural resources.
“We know types of industry that will produce high pollution. We hope clean maritime industry can be created. Academics also want enviromental value industry in maritime sector, which is feasible,” he said, opening a workshop preliminary to the opening of the Underwater Engineering in Vocational School of UGM on Monday (22/9).
He explained maritime science and technology has a broad spectrum as there are many disciplines that can be implemented.
Director of the School, Ir. Hotma Prawoto Sulistyadi, MT., IP-Md, said the opening of the study programme is very important while Indonesia has a long coastal line, even longer than China’s.
“The idea to open Underwater Engineering diploma programme is a good breakthrough, it is also supported by the Navy Deputy Chief of Staff. I hope this would be able to help build maritime sovereignty,” he said.
Deputy Director of the School, Dr Wikan Sakarinto, S.T., MSc, said the Underwater Engineering would initially become subject interest in Diploma Civil Engineering. In two year’s time it will become D4 (4 year’s Diploma).”
Initially, the School will cooperate with the NDT that issues international diver certifications and will supply diving equipment.
Maritime Month
To mark the Maritime Month, Admiral Didit Herdiawan also opened an exhibition in maritime industry at Graha Sabha Pramana building that will last until 24 September to inform the public on maritime resources management. Participants include the Navy, Energy Study Centre, Maritime and Fisheries Ministry, Archeology Agency, and Vocational School.