The Pendapa Manggala Praja Nugraha Hall of Trenggalek Regency hosted an important meeting on Tuesday morning between the Trenggalek Regency Government and a delegation from the Faculty of Pharmacy, Airlangga University (FF UNAIR). The visit was welcomed by the Regent of Trenggalek, H. Mochamad Nur Arifin, S.E., M.PSDM, along with the Head of the Trenggalek Regency Agriculture and Food Agency, Dr. Imam Nurhadi, S.P., M.Agr., in an atmosphere filled with enthusiasm and commitment to establishing a strategic partnership.
The team from the UNAIR Faculty of Pharmacy was led by Dr. apt. Neny Purwitasari, S.Farm., M.Sc., along with apt. Rosita Handayani, S.Farm., M.Si., and apt. Yusuf Alif Pratama, S.Farm., M.Farm., all three of whom are striving to implement the Tri Dharma of Higher Education.
In his remarks, Regent H. Mochamad Nur Arifin expressed his high appreciation for the UNAIR delegation's visit. He emphasized that the Trenggalek Regency Government is very open to collaborative efforts that can optimize local potential for community welfare. He believes that synergy between academics and the local government is crucial to fostering sustainable agricultural innovation.
"We have various local commodities with potential for development, especially plants that can be processed into quality essential oils. Collaboration with universities like UNAIR will open up new opportunities for farmers and MSMEs in Trenggalek," said the Regent. He hopes this activity will be the first step in integrating research and community empowerment.
Dr. apt. Neny Purwitasari, S.Farm., M.Sc., explained that the main purpose of the visit was to initiate collaboration in research and community service, particularly in the development of essential oils from local raw materials. She is currently the head of the research team under the RC DUDU-PDKL Equity funding scheme, which utilizes local plants, such as local lemons and fragrant lemongrass, as antidepressants.
Meanwhile, apt. Rosita Handayani, S.Farm., M.Sc., added that this research will cover aspects of production, standardization, and effectiveness testing. He emphasized the importance of a holistic approach so that research results can be implemented effectively by local communities and businesses.
A lively discussion ensued between the UNAIR delegation and the Trenggalek Regency Government, including discussions on potential plant species suitable for use as raw materials for essential oils, training for farmers, and technical assistance schemes. The presence of the Head of the Agriculture and Food Agency, Dr. Imam Nurhadi, S.P., M.Agr, also provided valuable perspectives on the production and distribution of agricultural products in the region.
The visit concluded with Imam's introduction of Dillem Wilis. Dillem Wilis is a potential tourist attraction that utilizes essential oils to produce products. It is hoped that this collaboration will not only strengthen the academic and government sectors but also serve as a catalyst for innovation-based economic growth in Trenggalek.
This collaborative activity aligns with SDG 17 "Partnership for the Goals."
