Student Internship at the Research Department of Petrokimia Gresik: Strengthening Academic–Industry Synergy
Gresik – The Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology (FST), Universitas Airlangga conducted a monitoring visit for student internships at the Research Department of PT Petrokimia Gresik on 23 February 2026. The visit was attended by Dr. Alfa Akustia Widati, Head of the Department of Chemistry; Satya Candra Wibawa Sakti, M.Sc., Ph.D., Secretary of the Department; and Prof. Mochamad Zakki Fahmi, Vice Dean I of the Faculty of Science and Technology, as part of the academic supervisory team and departmental representatives.
The activity included an evaluation of the internship program to ensure its alignment with the intended learning outcomes, while also reinforcing collaboration between the university and industry. During the visit, faculty members engaged in direct discussions with representatives of the Research Department of Petrokimia Gresik regarding student progress, their involvement in research projects, and their contributions throughout the internship period.
Internship students were involved in various research and development activities, ranging from laboratory analysis and product quality testing to observing production processes and industry-driven innovation in the fertilizer and chemical sectors. This experience provided practical insight into the application of chemical sciences at an industrial scale, while also fostering students’ professionalism and work ethic.
Dr. Alfa Akustia Widati emphasized the importance of monitoring as part of the academic quality assurance system, stating that the department seeks to ensure students gain optimal learning experiences relevant to industry needs. Similarly, Satya Candra Wibawa Sakti, M.Sc., Ph.D., highlighted the significance of integrating university research with industrial demands to generate applicable and sustainable innovations.
Prof. Mochamad Zakki Fahmi further noted that such strategic partnerships open opportunities for collaborative research, joint publications, and technology development with direct societal impact. Representatives from the Research Department of PT Petrokimia Gresik expressed their appreciation for the students’ contributions as well as for the Department of Chemistry FST UNAIR’s commitment to maintaining the quality of internship implementation and other forms of cooperation.
