IPB University and UM Kuningan Establish Collaboration to Explore Herbal Medicine Potential in Mount Ciremai
IPB University has established a collaboration with Universitas Muhammadiyah (UM) Kuningan to explore the potential of herbal medicine in the Mount Ciremai National Park area. The partnership was marked by the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) at the Science Techno Park (STP) of IPB University, Taman Kencana Campus, Bogor City (4/7).
The MoU was signed by the Rector of IPB University, Dr Alim Setiawan Slamet, and the Rector of Universitas Muhammadiyah Kuningan, Dr apt. Wawang Anwarudin.
Dr Wawang expressed his appreciation for the collaboration opportunity provided by IPB University. He stated that this partnership is a strategic step for his institution, which has just entered its second year following the merger of several educational institutions.
“This MoU signing serves as motivation for us to grow into a higher-quality university,” he said.
He explained that UM Kuningan currently has 14 study programs, including pharmacy, which focuses on the development of herbal medicine. The campus’s proximity to Mount Ciremai National Park is considered a significant opportunity for bio-pharmaceutical development.
However, he noted that the lack of modern research facilities remains a challenge. Therefore, his institution hopes to collaborate with IPB University, particularly in bio-pharmaceutical research and the downstream development of herbal products.
In addition, the collaboration is also directed toward the development of the livestock sector. UM Kuningan, which offers a livestock study program, sees great potential in the Kuningan region for developing cattle and poultry, and hopes this collaboration will bring direct benefits to the community.
Meanwhile, the Rector of IPB University, Dr Alim Setiawan Slamet, welcomed the partnership. He stated that UM Kuningan has strong potential for growth, especially with study programs that align with IPB University’s areas of excellence.
He added that IPB University has 14 faculties with hundreds of study programs, supported by more than 1.500 lecturers. He also opened opportunities for broader collaboration, including joint research, educational programs, and fast-track schemes for UM Kuningan students to pursue higher education at IPB University.
“We are open to various forms of collaboration, including the development of thematic research in food, agriculture, and health, as well as community service programs,” he said.
This collaboration is expected to encourage the development of bio-pharmaceutical research based on the local potential of Mount Ciremai, while also enhancing the academic capacity and contributions of both institutions in supporting community welfare. (dh) (IAAS/AS)
