Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) received a visit from the Regent of North Lombok and his delegation as a follow-up to the agreement regarding the implementation of the university’s Community Service Program (KKN-PPM UGM) in North Lombok Regency. The delegation was received directly by UGM Vice Rector for Research, Business Development, and Cooperation, Dr. Danang Sri Hadmoko, on Wednesday (May 20) at the Rectorate Meeting Room.
North Lombok Regent Dr. Najmul Akhyar stated that one of the outcomes of the KKN program was the development of ecotourism initiatives that continue to grow today. He explained that North Lombok is home to numerous cultural sites that have yet to be officially designated as cultural heritage sites. Therefore, he invited academics and researchers from UGM to conduct further studies to support the designation and preservation of these cultural sites.
In addition, Najmul highlighted the region’s agricultural development through date palm cultivation. After participating several times in the World Date Palm Festival, North Lombok’s date palm production was recognized as the seventh-best in the world.
He therefore requested UGM’s assistance in preparing a grand design for the development of date palm cultivation in North Lombok.
“Date palm cultivation has become one of the agricultural sectors attracting significant investment to North Lombok,” he said.
In response to the proposal, UGM Vice Rector for Research, Business Development, and Cooperation, Dr. Danang Sri Hadmoko, noted that UGM has a strong research track record in Lombok. Researchers from UGM’s Department of Archaeology, he said, have conducted numerous field studies that could help preserve the region’s cultural heritage.
“We have a Department of Archaeology that has carried out extensive activities, including research on sites buried by the eruption of Mount Samalas and efforts to preserve ancient manuscripts,” he explained.
Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Cooperation, and Alumni Affairs at the Faculty of Agricultural Technology, Dr. Sri Rahayoe, also expressed readiness to support the preparation of the grand design for the development of date palm cultivation.
In the field of education, Regent Akhyar also expressed hope for UGM’s support in improving human resource capacity in North Lombok. This includes expanding access for students from North Lombok to enroll at UGM through affirmative admission pathways and scholarship opportunities.
In addition, the collaboration is expected to include training programs and postgraduate study opportunities for civil servants to strengthen their knowledge and competencies.
“We can design training programs based on local needs,” said Dr. Hadmoko.
Author: Jesi
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-Editor: Zahra
Photo: Donnie