Banjarmasin, August 13–14, 2025 — Semarang State University (UNNES) and Sogang University Korea successfully implemented an international community service program through the Leading University Project for International Cooperation (LUPIC) in Banjarmasin, South Kalimantan. This activity involved three partner universities: Lambung Mangkurat University, UIN Antasari Banjarmasin, and the Islamic University of Kalimantan Muhammad Arsyad Al Banjari. It was attended by lecturers, chemistry education students, and teachers from the Banjarmasin Chemistry MGMP.
The event began with the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) between UNNES and the three partner universities in Banjarmasin. This event also saw the handover of three 3D printers from Sogang University through UNNES, which will be used as innovative tools to support the development of laboratories and learning media at the partner universities.
Figure 2 MoA Signing
Following the MoA ceremony, a series of community service activities began with inspiring presentations from experts. Prof. Dr. Edy Cahyono, M.Sc., opened the session with a presentation on the importance of reengineering chemical synthesis pathways for environmental sustainability. This was followed by a hands-on workshop by Harjito, M.Sc., who introduced the integration of the Internet of Things (IoT) for innovative chemistry teaching. Participants were then invited to apply the concept of small-scale chemistry with Endah Fitriani Rahayu, M.Sc., Devy Lestari, M.Pd., and Ridho Prasetyo, S.Si., who emphasized the importance of small-scale laboratory experiments that are environmentally friendly, safe, and cost-effective. The first day concluded with an Ethno-STEM training session by Prof. Dr. Woro Sumarni, M.Sc., which combines science, technology, and local wisdom as a foundation for contextual and relevant learning.
Figure 3 Workshop on the importance of re-engineering chemical synthesis pathways
Figure 4 Internet of Things (IoT) integration workshop for chemistry teaching innovation
Figure 5: Microscale Practical and Ethno-STEM Training
On the second day, August 14, 2025, the UNNES and Sogang University community service team visited SMA Negeri 1 Alalak, Barito Kuala Regency. Students and teachers were presented with practical and enjoyable chemistry training. One of the most engaging topics was the training on making eco-friendly aromatherapy candles from used cooking oil, titled “From Waste Oil to Wellness.” In addition, students participated in a Life Skills Chemistry practical, which taught them how chemistry is present in everyday life through simple yet meaningful microscale practicals.
Figure 6: Joint Activities with Banjarmasin Chemistry MGMP Teachers
This program received an enthusiastic response from all participants. A lecturer from Lambung Mangkurat University said, “This activity not only broadened our knowledge but also inspired us to develop chemistry learning that is more innovative and relevant to today’s needs.” Meanwhile, a Banjarmasin Chemistry MGMP teacher said, “Small-scale workshops are very beneficial because we can implement them directly in the school laboratory at a lower cost and remain safe for students.” Similar enthusiasm was expressed by students from SMA N 1 Alalak. “I’m really happy to be able to learn how to make environmentally friendly candles from used cooking oil. It turns out that chemistry can be practiced in a fun and useful way for everyday life,” said one student.
Figure 7: Community Service Activities at SMAN 1 Alalak Banjarmasin
This international community service activity demonstrates UNNES’ commitment as a world-renowned university to strengthening global networks, supporting the Tri Dharma of Higher Education, and promoting inclusive, innovative, and sustainable education in line with the conservation vision and SDGs.
