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| UMM's Electrical Engineering Program Introduces Renewable Energy Learning Modules to Vocational Schools in Malang (Photo : Special) |
The Renewable Energy (RE) sector continues to be one of the strategic priorities of the Indonesian government in efforts to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and curb carbon emissions. In line with this, the Electrical Engineering Program at the University of Muhammadiyah Malang (UMM) has introduced a learning module based on renewable energy. This initiative includes visits to various vocational schools in Malang, including SMK Muhammadiyah 7 Gondanglegi, to introduce solar power plants (PLTS) since late September.
Amrul Faruq, Ph.D., the coordinator of the outreach program, explained that in the National General Energy Plan (RUEN), Indonesia aims for 23% of its national energy mix to come from renewable energy sources by 2025. Solar Power Plants (PLTS) are expected to play a significant role in achieving this target.
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“Certainly, the government's efforts to accelerate this energy transition will not succeed without adequate educational support. Mastery of renewable energy technology, such as PLTS, is essential for producing human resources ready to face future challenges. Therefore, vocational and technical education at various school levels is a critical element. We are contributing to this effort through our outreach activities,” he stated.
Faruq is accompanied by Ilham Pakaya, M.Tr., and students from the Electrical Engineering program at UMM. They provided intensive training to students and teachers on the fundamentals of PLTS technology, covering its principles and applications in everyday life. The learning module developed by the outreach team is expected to be integrated into the educational activities at vocational schools, thus supporting a curriculum that is more aligned with the needs of the renewable energy industry.
Faruq also emphasized the importance of introducing PLTS technology early in school education. He hopes that vocational students will not only grasp theoretical concepts but also acquire practical skills necessary for contributing to green energy development in Indonesia. “This outreach program is part of UMM's commitment to support national targets in the development of renewable energy through strengthening vocational education,” he asserted.
The initiative has been well-received by the SMK community, including the head of SMK Muhammadiyah 7 Gondanglegi, Munali, S.T., M.Pd. Munali appreciated the contributions of the UMM electrical engineering team in developing a curriculum based on green technology. With the introduction of the PLTS module, he hopes students will not only understand the basic concepts of renewable energy but also develop practical skills applicable in the workforce.
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“With this initiative, I hope SMK Muhammadiyah 7 Gondanglegi can become one of the schools ready to produce graduates competent in the field of renewable energy. Especially with the increasing demand for workforce in the green technology sector. Students now have the opportunity to learn and engage directly with PLTS technology, which is projected to become one of the main energy sources in Indonesia in the future,” he concluded. (*/wil/fajr)
