The eight-month competition featured several stages. It began with socialization and participant selection, continued with journalism workshops, and concluded with a final round on January 23, 2025, at the TVRI Operational Support Building (GPO) in Jakarta. Finalists were asked to submit journalistic works that inform and impact their communities.

In his winning article, titled “Surakarta, Chinese, and Indigenous: Tracing the Footsteps of Conflict and the Path to Peace,” Rohmat explored the long history of ethnic tensions in Surakarta. He focused on challenges between the Chinese and indigenous communities. His work examined social, economic, and political factors and stressed the value of multicultural education and cross-cultural dialogue in building harmony.

Appreciation from Faculty

Faculty members celebrated this achievement. Prof. Dr. Ir. Wahyudi Sutopo, S.T., M.Si., Dean of the Faculty of Engineering at UNS, expressed pride in Rohmat’s success. He said, “We hope this victory inspires other students to join competitions, sharpen their critical thinking, and expand their knowledge beyond engineering.”

Rohmat reflected on his journey, adding, “I gained new insights into journalism and learned how a well-crafted article can impact society. I also met students from many regions who shared diverse perspectives, which enriched my understanding of national issues.” He shared his thoughts with ft.uns.ac.id on Monday (3/2/2025).

Rohmat encouraged his peers by stating, “Journalism is not just about writing. It is a platform to share the truth and contribute to our nation. I hope more UNS students will take part in such competitions and represent our university on larger stages.”

This win proves that engineering students can excel beyond their field. It shows that creativity, insight, and civic awareness can thrive in any discipline.

HUMAS UNS

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The open dissertation defense was led by Prof. Dr. Ir. Eko Surojo, S.T., M.T., as the head examiner, with Prof. Dr. Ir. Triyono, S.T., M.T., as the secretary. The supervisory team included Prof. Dominicus Danardono Dwi Prija Tjahjana, S.T., M.T., Ph.D. as the main supervisor, along with Prof. Dr. Eng. Ir. Agus Purwanto, S.T., M.T., and Prof. Ir. Muhammad Nizam, S.T., M.T., Ph.D., as co-supervisors. The internal examiners were Prof. Dr. Ir. Zainal Arifin, S.T., M.T., and Dr. Rendy Adhi Rachmanto, S.T., M.T., with external examiner Dr. Eng. Gunawan Dwi Haryadi, S.T., M.T., from Universitas Diponegoro. 

During his doctoral studies, Ahmad Ilham conducted extensive research and participated in an international conference at Universitas Brawijaya, Malang. His research focused on innovating propulsion systems for fishing boats, which have traditionally relied on internal combustion engines (ICE) and hybrid engines. Ahmad proposed an electric engine solution powered by lithium-ion batteries to address challenges such as high emissions, low efficiency, and limited operational range. 

In his presentation, Ahmad outlined the five stages of his research, which included observation and modeling simulations using Maxsurf Modeller, development and preliminary testing of the battery, torque testing using the Prony Brake method, no-load testing of the electric engine, and prototype performance testing in marine waters. 

His findings revealed that a battery configuration based on Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) packs with a “15S12P” specification met the electric engine’s power needs. Simulations and testing also demonstrated enhanced boat performance when the battery placement was optimized for stability and propulsion system efficiency. 

“This research significantly contributes to the transition toward zero emissions for marine vehicles. By converting mechanical propulsion systems to electric, this prototype improves efficiency and is environmentally friendly,” Ahmad explained during his presentation. 

The research supervisor, Prof. Dominicus Danardono Dwi Prija Tjahjana, praised Ahmad’s achievement. 

“We take full responsibility for the outcomes of Ahmad Ilham Ramadhani’s research. This study represents a major step forward in the use of renewable energy for marine transportation. With these results, we are optimistic that this concept can be further developed to support sustainable fisheries and transportation,” he stated. 

Responding to a question from Prof. Dr. Zainal Arifin, S.T., M.T. regarding the economic feasibility of the innovation, Ahmad emphasized its cost-effectiveness. “Economically, the electric engine is more sustainable and affordable as it eliminates the need for frequent returns to the dock for refueling. However, there is an initial cost for the lithium battery,” Ahmad noted, as quoted from ft.uns.ac.id. 

With his dissertation, Ahmad Ilham Ramadhani has positioned himself as a pioneer in the development of lithium-ion battery-powered electric boats. The Faculty of Engineering at UNS hopes this research will have a tangible impact on achieving environmentally friendly marine transportation and supporting the zero-emission agenda.

HUMAS UNS

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According to ft.uns.ac.id on Wednesday (10/30/2024), this RO system, with a capacity of 1.000 gallons per day (GPD) and powered by photovoltaic (PV) panels, harnesses solar energy to store power in batteries that drive the pump and RO machine. This setup produces high-quality drinking water, reducing dependency on external electricity and water sources.

Professor Zainal Arifin, Ph.D., Head of the Nano Converter Research Group, noted that this technology is ideal for areas with limited electricity access. “We aim to create an environmentally friendly and practical solution, particularly for Islamic boarding schools and rural villages. By utilizing solar energy, the system is efficient and produces high-quality drinking water, verified in laboratory testing,” he explained.

The UNS service team consists of experts in mechanical engineering and energy, including Prof. Dominicus Danardono, Prof. Dr. techn. Ir. Suyitno, Dr. Wibawa Endra Juwana, Dr. Rendy Adhi Rachmanto, and Dr. Indri Yaningsih. Their expertise and dedication have made Tijarotul Qur’aniah Islamic Boarding School self-sufficient in meeting drinking water needs while promoting environmental preservation through renewable energy use.

Laboratory tests confirm that the water produced by this RO system meets all physical and chemical standards for drinking water safety. This innovation not only demonstrates energy efficiency but also makes a significant contribution to environmental conservation and the advancement of eco-friendly technology in Indonesia. HUMAS UNS

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The team members consisted of Hafida Salsabila, Tri Rahmaji, Sukmo Utomo Abdillah Amin, Muzakiya Lailatul Karima, Hasna Fatin Hanifah, Muhammad Dzaky Musyaffa, Muhana Fawwazy Ilyas, Muhammad Dzaki Darmawan, Inas Nuha Mumtazah, Hanifah Fathimatuzzahrah, Gading Nasywaa Aji Azzahra, Shastri Cahyaningtyas, and Hidayat Fatahillah. The team was supervised by Dr. Revi Gama Hatta Novika, SST., M.Kes and Ubaidillah, S.T., M.Sc., Ph.D.

Dr. Revi Gama Hatta Novika, SST., M.Kes, stated that the product prototype was funded by MBKM Grant and supported by the National Research and Innovation Center (BRIN) Indonesia in the product development stage. The product was named Effleurage Robot, a pain-relieving innovation for mothers experiencing labor contractions or before labor.

Dr. Revi discussed the idea with Ubaidillah, S.T., M.Sc., Ph.D., Rufidah Maulina, SST., M.Sc, Siti Nurhidayati, S.S.T., M.Keb, and Nurul Jannatul Wahidah, S.ST., M.Kes, and her students. The idea came from the Covid-19 condition, which prevented the soon-to-be-mother from having her family member accompany her and provided effleurage massages to reduce her muscle pain. “During the Covid-19 condition, (she) needs something to replace those family members’ role,” Dr. Revi explained on Thursday (24/2/2022).

Effleurage Robot is a chair robot that provides effleurage massage with strong, medium, and soft settings on pregnant women’s hips to reduce labor pain. The robot also reduces the work of people accompanying a mother in labor and is equipped with adjustable features that can be used when walking, sitting, and lying down. The study on Effleurage Robot effectiveness was implemented in Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) Hospital for a pregnant woman in 1^st stage labor. The research showed significantly reduced pain, showing high effectiveness for stage 1 labor.

Hafida Salsabila, the student coordinator, stated that she obtained lots of experiences and learned from her participation in the grant. The innovation was also submitted for Student Creativity Program (PKM), International essay competition, and MBKM Grant before finally winning the current competition in the Tertiary School category with Biotechnology and Health subtheme. She added that the midwifery and medical science students could prepare the idea of such a robot, but they need help from mechanical engineering to create such innovation. “Thus, the assembly process runs well and creates a usable tool,” she added on Thursday (24/2/2022).

The competition was held by the Malaysian Invention & Design Society (MINDS) in 1989 and was participated by students from various countries. ITEX is a platform for researchers to introduce their innovations and finding to the business community. It is always participated by universities, research institutes, individual researchers, young researchers, and companies. Humas UNS

Reporter: Rangga Pangestu Adji
Editor: Dwi Hastuti

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Prof. Dr. Sayekti Wahyuningsih, S.Si. M.Si., is the 241^st professor in UNS and 19^th professor in FMIPA UNS. Her inauguration ceremony was titled Photocatalyst Material: Challenges and Potential for Development in Indonesia. In her press release, Prof. Sayekti explained that literally, photo means the energy of light, and catalyst means the compound/matter that initiates a reaction. Therefore, the photocatalyst is the reaction that occurs with the help of light. Photocatalyst materials absorb light energy as a source of electronic transition (electron transfer) from the basic to the excitation state. The basic condition of photocatalyst material of semiconductors is the valance band (VB), and the excitation condition is the conduction band (CB).

The photocatalyst technology is a green technology that is appropriate for tropical areas with large sunlight exposure. Prof. Sayekti added that her Inorganic Materials research group focuses on inorganic materials, separation, purification, nano-material synthetic and composite, and inorganic materials functionalizing. These studies then directed for the development of photocatalyst materials, DSSC’s, self-cleaning materials, drug delivery system, and separation technology. “At least three natural sources are developed for photocatalyst materials, iron sand, silica sand, and ilmenite,” Prof. Sayekti explained in a press conference in Ruang Sidang 2 dr. Prakosa Building UNS, Tuesday (14/12/2021).

Prof. Ir. Agung Tri Wijayanta, S.T., M.Eng., Ph.D., is the 242^nd professor in UNS and 19^th professor in FT UNS. His inauguration speech was titled The Role of Thermofluids Science in Improving Thermal Performance Towards Environmentally Friendly Energy Saving. Prof. Agung explained that the International Energy Agency (IEA) reported in the Outlook Energy 2021 that currently, 30% of global energy is consumed by housing and commercial buildings. High-rise building consumes around 60% of global electrical energy for air conditioning and water heater that consume a higher amount of electrical energy.

In the context of Indonesia, Prof. Agung explained that the increase in population and improved infrastructure would lead to an increase in demand for air conditioning and energy consumption. This condition, combined with the fluctuating electricity consumption, causes complicated power supply production from renewable sources such as solar panels and winds turbines. Thus, the dependence on fossil fuels will continue to grow. However, the government has declared the development of Energy Mix from 5% of 166 MTOE (Million tonnes of oil equivalent) in 2015 from renewable energy sources to 31% from 1.012 MTOE in 2050.

Thermofluids, Prof. Agung’s expertise, discusses the flow of fluids, its energy content, and its movement in the flow after considering environmental sustainability. “Sustainability with positive impact and environmentally friendly is vital. Thus, with my fellows in Mechanical Engineering Program, we established a Sustainable Thermofluids research group in 2016 to study the main supporting knowledge comprehensively, Thermodynamics, Heat Transfer, and Fluid Mechanics. These are essentials for Mechanical ENgineering,” Prof. Agung explained.

Further, Prof. Agung explained that thermofluids could become an alternative to energy-saving and achieving environmentally friendly sustainable energy. Amid the Covid-19 pandemic, thermofluids is also expected to be a successful effort in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in 2030 to alleviate poverty, reduce inequality, and protect the environment. “Thermofluids knowledge, again contributed in a real science is our expectation, taking a role in Indonesia energy resilience while considering the environmentally friendly aspect,” Prof. Agung added.

Prof. Dr. Agus Supriyanto, S.Si., M.Si., is the 243^rd professor in UNS and 20^th professor in FMIPA UNS. He delivered an inauguration speech on The Role of DSSC-Based Solar Cell Material in New Renewable Energy Innovation Towards Energy Transition. The speech was based on the challenges on energy, environmental, and security issues that will be faced by Indonesia. The energy transition towards the Net Zero Emission (NZE) in 2060 or earlier is Indonesia’s commitment to transforming its economy based on clean and sustainable renewable energy sources. One of the four agreed points in The Conference of Parties (COP)-26 di Glasgow Scotland focuses on energy transition and environmentally friendly processes, demanding Indonesia to reduce its carbon emission while increasing its energy production. To achieve this objective, a concept of energy transition that replace fossil-based fuels and provide environmentally friendly energy sources that reduce greenhouse emission needs to be mapped.

Solar cells are a tool that converts energy from sunlight into electricity through the photovoltaic effect. The first generation of solar cells was made from silicon and germanium or inorganic solar cells (SSA), followed by the dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) as an alternative for sunlight energy conversion to electrical energy. DSSC received increasing research interest recently because it applied the photosynthesis concept in plants. This process converted sunlight into chemical energy in which the generated electrons are targeted to acceptors.

However, despite the increasing interest from the research community, the development of DSSC into prototypes needs further studies and standardized assessment of the characteristics of the transparent solar cell. Prof. Agus also mentioned that a multidisciplinary approach is essential in this study, and inter-institutions collaboration is needed to develop a transparent solar cell prototype. “Especially in combining the science and technology and the advantages of natural potentials in creating added values for nanotechnology and economic fields.” Prof. Agus also emphasized that the opportunity for novelty, research, journal publication, and patent are widely available for DSSC solar cell technology.

Prof. Dr. Ir. Eddy Triharyanto, M.P., is the 244^th professor in UNS and 37^th professor in FP UNS. He delivered an inauguration speech on The Role of Planting Materials in Improving Horticultural Productivity and Quality. Horticultural is a combination of science, technology, arts, and economy as a branch of agronomy with four types olericulture (vegetable plants), pomology or fruticulture (fruit plants), floriculture (flower plants), and biopharmaceuticals (herbal plants). Modern horticultural farming developed based on the scientifical development that produce technology to produce and handle horticultural commodities in generating economic benefits.

Horticultural products have high demand and diverse product variety. From fresh to processed products because these products provide essential nutrients for people. To meet the standard from the World Health Organization (WHO), fruit consumption per capita should be higher than 200 grams or 50 Kcal per day and 250 grams or 62.5 Kcal per day for vegetables. In the case of Indonesia, fruit consumption is far below the WHO standard, with an increase of 15% in the last ten years from 39.44 Kcal to 45.37 Kcal. A similar condition is reported on vegetable consumption with an average of 29 to 39 kcal per person per day.

“Generally, in horticultural farming, the selection of high-quality planting material is the key to success in increasing the productivity and quality of horticultural products. Therefore, developing the national seeding industry should receive more attention from all parties,” Prof. Eddy stated. Humas UNS

Reporter: Dwi Hastuti

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LNTRBM is an industrial tool design and innovation competition that aims to improve university students’ ability in innovating and their awareness of the nation’s independence through technology innovation. The Team has four members: Mohammad Inggi Hilmawan, Adriansyah Bagus Aryanto, Muhammad Imaduddin Hanif, and Andhika Bagus P.V.P won their achievements after fiercely competing with the other 24 teams from national universities. Due to the tight competition with many famous universities in Indonesia, Inggi, a team member, stated that they had hesitation in hoping for the best results.

“But when (we) saw the announcement, we were delighted and surprised because our Team won two categories. All feelings of tiredness seem to be paid off immediately,” Inggi said.

The competition held by Indonesia Mechanical Engineering Cooperation Institute (BKSTM) started with participating Team sending their technical proposal for their design explaining the details on their tool that meet the competition theme “Mechanic Educational Game Tool”. UNS Team proposal was selected among the Best 15 and was required to prepare a presentation video as a selection for the semifinal round. The Team was also required to participate in the question-and-answer session with the committee through an online meeting platform. The whole selection process took three months to complete before the Team could reap the results of their hard works.

The preparation stages included tool designing, tool production, and proposal review. The Team also revised their proposal and prepared a presentation video asked by the committee, followed by a question-and-answer simulation. Inggi stated that the team members obtained valuable lessons from the competition, including being confident and giving their best.

“Our team was pessimistic when observing competitors from better universities, but with confidence and high fighting spirit, Alhamdulillah, our team brought home awards and proud name for UNS,” Inggi stated. Humas UNS

Reporter: Ida Fitriyah
Editor: Dwi Hastuti

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