UNS – A team of Chemical Engineering students from the Faculty of Engineering (FT), Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS), achieved first place in the 2024 National Scientific Writing Competition (LKTIN) organized by the Student Research Unit (BRM) of FMIPA Universitas Tadulako (Untad). The team, comprising Fikriyyah Nur Hidayati, Raihanah Faridah C.A., and Dio Pratama, triumphed over the tough competition to secure the top prize in the event held by BRM FMIPA Untad.
The competition consisted of several stages, starting with registration and submission of papers, paper assessment, announcement of the Top 10, submission of presentation videos and posters, poster voting, and the final announcement of winners. The FT UNS team faced significant challenges, particularly as they received information about the competition close to the deadline.
“When we learned that 99 teams from various universities had registered, we felt a bit pessimistic. However, Alhamdulillah, we made it to the Top 10 and regained our enthusiasm, eventually winning the competition. The event was held virtually from October 28 to November 30, 2024,” Raihanah, one of the team members, said as quoted from ft.uns.ac.id on Friday (3/1/2025).
In their project, the team proposed an innovative solution addressing two major issues: the harmful effects of Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) in soaps on sensitive skin and the problem of biomass waste from palm kernel shells. They successfully developed a natural soap (non-SLS) enriched with activated charcoal derived from palm kernel shells. This solution was praised for being environmentally friendly and safe for long-term use.
“Our academic advisor provided invaluable assistance, particularly in administrative processes. After our victory, they congratulated us and offered constructive feedback for further improvement,” the team added.
Despite the time constraints, the FT UNS team proved their excellence. “We are incredibly grateful for this achievement. It feels like a remarkable way to close the year,” they expressed emotionally.
The team hopes their success will inspire other students to actively participate in future scientific competitions.
“We hope more students will join competitions next year, bringing pride to FT and UNS,” they concluded.
The accomplishment by the FT UNS Chemical Engineering students highlights the faculty’s commitment to innovation and finding solutions to real-world problems while prioritizing sustainability. Their innovation is expected to continue developing and providing tangible benefits to society.
Through this achievement, the FT UNS students contribute to advancing several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to sustainability and environmental impact, reflecting a commitment to a greener and more sustainable future.
HUMAS UNS
Editor: Dwi Hastuti
