Innovating Since 21 Years Ago, This UMM Lecturer Wins Prestigious Lecturer Award

Elfi who has just been awarded a commendable lecturer award. (Photo: Rino Public Relations)

The University of Muhammadiyah Malang (UMM) does not only produce high-achieving students. But also the lecturers who are increasingly making the name of the White Campus proud. One of them is Prof. Dr. Ir. Elfi Anis Saati, MP. Through her innovations, she managed to get various prestigious achievements. Most recently, Elfi successfully got an award as a Commendable Innovative Lecturer given by the Region VII Higher Education Service Institution. Who held the award on Wednesday (18/8).

Elfi, her nickname, is a lecturer who consistently innovates, especially in terms of nutrition and food technology. Previously, she was often named the best presenter, receiving a series of awards such as the Association of Indonesian Food Technology Experts (PATPI) Award, which she received some time ago.

Asked about this award, Elfi admitted that she did not know if there was an assessment and recognition like this. But she knows very well that monitoring and evaluation are covering various aspects every six months. Starting from how she teaches, research, publications, patents, and dedication. "Maybe that's where I was finally named as one of the toughest lecturers, especially in the aspect of the latest innovation," she said.

Remarkably, the woman who is the coordinator of the UMM Halal Center has also been researching anthocyanin pigments since 21 years ago. In addition, she also has more than 12 patents that focus on food and nutrition. Some are natural dyes from roses, natural dyes made from seaweed, and antioxidant drink juices from roses.

Especially for the last one, Elfi has also managed to get a brand, a Home Industry Production Permit (PIRT), and halal certification. She has even built a production house and marketed it to various regions. "It doesn't just stop at research. Innovation must also be able to provide benefits to various parties, especially the community," she said.

Recently, Elfi and several of his colleagues are developing analog rice for toddlers. This innovation departs from the phenomenon of toddler stunting, which recently occurred. According to him, it can happen due to a lack of nutrients, especially protein and minerals.

The lecturer, a member of the Muhammadiyah Halal Examination Institute's expert team, also briefly explained why she continues to innovate. According to him, the innovations made are nothing but to provide solution options for problems in the community. In addition, to innovate and make good use of nature is the duty of a caliph. "As caliphs on Earth, of course, we must try to be creative and intelligent humans so that we can spread benefits to others," added Elfi.

Finally, she hopes that this award will not only have a positive impact on himself. However, it can motivate the younger generation to respect Indonesia's natural wealth and technology so that the community can optimize local potential to the maximum. "Let's raise a superior society together not only from academia, but also from industry, the private sector, and the government. The hope is that Indonesia can be more advanced and be able to reduce the current poverty rate," she concluded. (apg/wil)