YOGYAKARTA (KU) - Institute for Research and Community Service (LPPM) UGM promotes various products of superior research results in the exhibition entitled the 12th National Exhibition on Appropriate Technology taking place in Jogja Expo Center (JEC) from 22 to 26 September 2010.
Some of the products on display are 'Green Biogas Motorcycle' (motor vehicles that use biogas), landslide detection equipment, biogas cylinders, 'Gama Indigo ND' natural batik dye, hydrant pump for areas lacking in water, and 'Innovation Medical Device' and bone plate connector.
Head of National and International Cooperation of LPPM, Ir. Ambar Pertiwiningrum, M.Sc., Ph.D., told reporters that LPPM UGM continues to encourage the researchers to produce research that is useful for society. For the product research that can be applied in society, she invites external partners, one of them is the Ministry for Development of Disadvantaged Areas. "For research that can be applied and marketed in society, we invite partners," said Ambar who was accompanied by Science and Technology Expert Staff of the Ministry, Bambang Sarwono, Head of The Agricultural Training, Research and Development Station of Universitas Gadjah Mada (KP4 UGM), Dr. Ir. Agus Cahyono, M.Agr.Sc., and researcher of landslide detection device, Prof. Dr. Ir. Dwikorita Karnawati.
Ambar explained the categories of research products in collaboration with the Ministry are reserved for technology products that can be applied in under-developed regions. One of them is the use of biogas from cattle droppings. "Cattle’s dropppings can also be used to produce biogas to overcome fuel scarcity in the remote areas," she explained.
Ambar said that UGM is committed to continue research programs and community service in providing products that are useful for society. In fact, UGM is always ready to assist the community to apply new technology that has been generated by researchers. "At least, people know the use of the tools. We are always ready to do the socialization and mentoring," she added.
Expert staff, Bambang Sarwono, conveyed that the Ministry deliberately works with universities to continue applying superior products in underdeveloped regions. That is done to alleviate 50 of 183 disadvantaged areas. "We have the target to alleviate 50 disadvantaged areas by the year 2014. Each year, at least 10 disadvantaged areas can be alleviated," he said.
To support the program, this year they have allocated funds amounting to 115 billion rupiah to accelerate the development of industrial estates in disadvantaged areas. The funds are intended for 120 disadvantaged areas. "This fund is stimulant fund, which, in its implementation, synergizes with local governments and local communities," he said.
He mentioned that many disadvantaged areas are located in eastern Indonesia regions, covering continental based, region based, and marine-based areas. In all three areas, appropriate technology is planned to be applied, which is the product of university research results.
The exhibition opened by Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Hatta Rajasa, displays 386 booths from various regions, investors, entrepreneurs, and universities. In his speech, Hatta conveyed that the development of appropriate technologies is expected to provide ways for Indonesian people to reach welfare with their independence.
In accordance with government strategies as stipulated in the National Medium Term Development Plan (RPJMN) 2010, it is targeted by the year 2014 there is increasing public welfare by massive use of appropriate technology in various areas. "Utilization of appropriate technologies can strengthen the economic foundation of the people. We hope that the economy would grow by 6.3 - 6.8 percent per year with the implementation of technology-based development," he said.