In an effort to strengthen the creative economy within the fisheries sector, the Livestock and Fisheries Office of Bojonegoro Regency collaborated with the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, Universitas Airlangga (FPK UNAIR) Surabaya, to hold a catfish processing training program in Tlogorejo Village, Kepohbaru District. This initiative reflects the implementation of a collaborative partnership between FPK UNAIR and the Livestock and Fisheries Office of Bojonegoro Regency to enhance the added value of fishery products while empowering local communities. The training event was officially opened by Dr. Hj. Cantika Wahono, the Chairperson of the Bojonegoro Family Welfare Empowerment Team (TP PKK), who also attended and supported the activity.
Held on July 30, the training provided participants with both theoretical insights and hands-on experience in processing catfish into economically valuable products such as nuggets and catfish crackers. Participants included members of village and sub-district PKK teams, local residents, fish farmers, and small business owners involved in fish product processing. Through direct practice, participants learned techniques for improving product quality, extending shelf life, and enhancing product presentation to appeal to broader markets.
This community service activity represents FPK UNAIR’s ongoing commitment to implementing the Tri Dharma of Higher Education, particularly in the area of community empowerment and knowledge transfer. By collaborating with local government agencies, FPK UNAIR aims to bridge academic knowledge with local needs, ensuring that scientific innovations and research findings directly contribute to improving the welfare of rural communities. The Faculty also emphasized that catfish, as one of the most commonly cultivated freshwater fish species in Indonesia, holds great potential to drive rural economic growth if processed creatively and marketed effectively.
Moreover, the training program is expected to encourage local entrepreneurs to innovate further in developing diverse catfish-based products with higher market value. By adopting good processing practices and simple packaging innovations, communities can expand their business reach, gain consumer trust, and strengthen the regional fishery economy. The initiative aligns with Universitas Airlangga’s vision to create a positive impact on society through sustainable innovation and inclusive collaboration.
Through activities like this, FPK UNAIR continues to demonstrate its dedication to community engagement, empowering local residents to transform potential challenges into economic opportunities. The Faculty believes that empowering rural communities through education, technology, and entrepreneurship development is an essential step toward building a more sustainable and competitive fishery sector in Indonesia.
