Workshop of Department of Agribusiness of IPB: Developing an Online Based Curriculum
The current technological developments and online trends are challenges. The concept used for the online trend can also further improve the processes in managing agribusiness. In line with this phenomenon, Bogor Agricultural University (IPB) continues to develop a curriculum that is not only in the line, but also online based, thus the power of agribusiness science achievement will be all out. This was conveyed by the Institute Secretary (SI) of IPB, Dr Ibnul Qayim, when delivering the keynote speech of Rector of IPB in the event "Workshop on Curriculum Evaluation and Development of Undergraduate Program of Agribusiness" at IPB International Convention Center (IICC) in Bogor (1/2).
Dr Ibnul Qayim added that the existing curriculum needs to be strengthened in accordance with the Indonesian National Qualification Framework (KKNI) as well as the mandate of the vision and mission of IPB in the future. In addition, it should also be noted that the suitability of the curriculum does not only arbitrarily follow the existing trends, but is also in line with the needs of the appropriate science or curriculum. "This is because the development of agribusiness education should be based on the demands of positive and negative changes. If these changes are the logical consequences of the development of human civilization, then the demand for agribusiness education is not a momentary phenomenon," he explained.
The direction of agribusiness education needs to be distinguished according to the approach of the substance of agribusiness studies and the administration of agribusiness education. Substantial studies are emphasized on vertical and horizontal approaches. Vertical approach is the direction of study at the level of agribusiness depth that implicates at academic levels, ranging from undergraduate to postgraduate degree. The horizontal approach is approached from the mastery of professional aspects enrichment in the management of agribusiness and the widespread employment opportunities.
Therefore, a curriculum that is relevant to the actual condition of agribusiness is needed to produce professional graduates so that they will get a job easily. Actual conditions can only be achieved if the preparation of the curriculum involves the parties concerned, especially the industries which seek graduates. In this process of preparation, a debate of interest between the special needs of the company and the rules of higher education often occurs.
"IPB's Long-Term Plan (RJP-IPB) 2019-2045 has confirmed IPB to be Techno-Socio-Entrepreneurial University, then the contribution and role of IPB in the future will be more demanded in the enforcement and enrichment of Indonesian society (Social Enrichment), focused on superior quality of education for all, leading research, and solution maker to the national problems," explained Drs Ibn al-Qayim.
The effort to bring the future into the present must be imbued with the spirit of strengthening the college marwah as a pillar of the strength of scientific and moral integrity and the pillar of independence to always spread the goodness and continue to fight for truth and justice. Therefore, he said, the campus not only needs the technocratic intelligence, but also needs intellectual intelligence and high heart sensitivity.
Meanwhile, Dean of Faculty of Economics and Management (FEM) of IPB, Prof Dr Yusman Syaukat, conveyed that these changes and evaluations are needed.
Secretary of Department of Agribusiness of FEM IPB, Dr Burhanuddin, said that the workshop involved a number of partners, namely education partners, private partners, government, NGOs and alumni representatives. (TK)
