Industry and SMK Collaborate to Develop Local Food Products

Jakarta: PT Banjarnegara Agro Mandiri Sejahtera (PT BAMS) is collaborating with SMK Negeri Satu Rakyat Bungkal, Central Java. This collaboration involves a teaching factory (TEFA) program for industry-based practical learning.

The collaboration aims to strengthen students' skills in processing local food resources. It also paves the way for regional products to penetrate national and international markets.

PT BAMS Director Trisila Juwantar stated that SMK must align with the needs of the industrial world. "When we talk about the teaching factory industry, we inevitably have to talk about the market," Trisila said during a Public Discussion and Joint Commitment of Ministries/Institutions at Building A of the Ministry of Education and Culture Complex in Jakarta, Tuesday (10/14/2025).

The TEFA program encourages students to understand the production process, from raw material processing to product distribution. This way, students are better prepared for the real world of work.

PT BAMS uses vacuum drying technology to process tropical fruits such as pineapple, papaya, and mango. This innovation maintains the quality of local ingredients and increases the competitiveness of export products.

Trisila emphasized the importance of innovation in maintaining the quality and sustainability of local products. "We want students' work to be accepted in the global market," she said.

The Head of the Language Agency, Hafidz Muksin, appreciated the partnership between businesses and schools. He believed that contextual learning like this is crucial for preparing graduates who are ready to work.

"The education ecosystem must involve businesses and industry," said Hafidz. He believes this synergy makes vocational education more relevant and impactful.

This collaboration also supports the preservation of local food as a national economic asset. The developed local products also have added value and export opportunities.

This model of collaboration between industry and schools can be implemented in other regions. Local potential will develop if supported by appropriate training and technology.

This partnership is expected to produce superior and independent human resources based on regional potential. Vocational education also serves as a solution for strengthening community-based economies.