Vice Regent of Sumenep, Hj. Dewi Khalifah S.H., M.H., M.Pd.I., conveyed efforts to explore and manage regional natural resources in order to increase local products that can contribute to community economic growth during her visit to the Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Brawijaya (FP UB), The meeting which took place at the Senate Hall on the 6th floor of the Central Building of FP UB was also attended by the Dean of FP UB, Prof. Mangku Purnomo, and Vice Dean for Academic Affairs, Dr. Afifuddin Latief.
The Vice Regent also highlighted the advantages of Moringa leaves in his area compared to other regions and emphasized that this natural resource has great potential to be developed. Therefore, he invited academics and lecturers from UB FP to participate in increasing the production and utilization of Moringa leaves by utilizing various expertise and scientific backgrounds.
“In Sumenep there are many abundant plantation, marine, or agricultural resources, but we are aware of deficiencies in research or management so that they have not become more downstream products,” he said.
“Exploring potential and managing regional natural resources will bring great benefits to the Sumenep people’s economy. We hope that the lecturers from FP UB can help in improving it with their respective abilities, and collaborate to produce local products that are beneficial to society,” said Dewi Khalifah.
In answering the challenge of increasing local products, Prof. Mangku welcomed the invitation. He stated that FP is ready to contribute by conducting research and developing technology that can increase the production and utilization of natural resources in Sumenep.
“We will work with local governments and communities to optimize natural resource management and produce competitive local products. This collaboration is also expected to improve people’s welfare and provide alternatives for young people to have careers and contribute in their own regions,” added Prof. Mangku.
The visit of the Vice Regent of Sumenep is the first step to build synergies between the local government and universities in facing various local development challenges. With the support of academics and the ability of rich natural resources, Sumenep has the potential to realize the vision of strengthening the economy and empowering communities in increasing regional welfare. (zma/siti-rahma/ UB PR/ Trans. Iir)
