Transformative Learning Through Green Technology: The SEGTA Program 2024
Surabaya, Indonesia: In a landmark initiative for sustainable development, the Faculty of Advanced Technology and Multidiscipline (FTMM) at Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR), in collaboration with Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) and other prestigious institutions, hosted the Sustainable Energy and Green Technology Applications (SEGTA) Program. This nine-day program, from February 29th to March 8th, 2024, marks a pivotal step towards integrating academic prowess with real-world environmental challenges.
1. Empowering Communities: The Gili Iyang Project At the heart of SEGTA’s community development pillar was the project at Gili Iyang Island. Here, participants installed solar shelters developed by FTMM UNAIR, addressing the island’s pressing need for sustainable electricity. This initiative not only harnessed solar energy but also served as a living lab for the participants, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG7) – Affordable and Clean Energy. The practical experience gained in implementing these technologies was invaluable, providing a hands-on approach to community empowerment and sustainable practices.
2. Academic Enrichment and Innovations at FTMM UNAIR SEGTA offered a rich tapestry of academic courses and laboratory activities. Participants were exposed to groundbreaking innovations, including the use of multicopter drones in precision agriculture, electric bike development, and IoT-based weather systems. These sessions underlined the transformative role of technology in sustainable practices and ignited a passion for innovation among the students. By blending theoretical knowledge with practical applications, the program expanded the technological horizon of its participants.
3. Sustainable Tourism: Learning from Probolinggo and Bromo Mountain The program’s final phase focused on sustainable tourism policies at Probolinggo and Bromo Mountain. This component offered insights into the importance of holistic approaches in promoting environmental sustainability. The discussions and on-site experiences provided a unique perspective on balancing tourism with ecological conservation, emphasizing the role of policy frameworks in achieving sustainable tourism.
Global Participation and Future Outlook The SEGTA Program’s success is also attributable to its diverse participation, involving students and academics from 17 countries. This multicultural exchange enriched the learning experience, fostering a global dialogue on sustainability.
In conclusion, the SEGTA Program stands as a testament to the power of collaborative and innovative approaches in addressing environmental challenges. By bridging the gap between academic learning and practical application, it not only contributed to the personal and professional growth of its participants but also signified a proactive step towards a more sustainable future.
Prepared by: Hollis Bunyeh Anak Francis Mengga, Paramees Rao Ramachandran & Ts. Dr. Rosnita binti Muhammad.