The main focus of this academic visit was to explore the potential integration between the agriculture and fisheries sectors in supporting national food security. Both parties recognized that cross-disciplinary collaboration can generate innovative solutions — ranging from the utilization of marine resources, development of sustainable agricultural technology, to environmentally friendly post-harvest innovations. This collaborative initiative reflects the shared vision of both institutions to foster synergy between land and sea-based industries as an essential strategy in ensuring food sustainability and resilience in Indonesia.
During the discussion, which took place in a warm and dynamic atmosphere, students from both faculties actively exchanged ideas about strategies for sustainable development. They emphasized that achieving food security requires a holistic and ecosystem-based approach, in which agriculture and fisheries complement one another as interconnected systems. This dialogue not only deepened their understanding of each discipline’s role but also encouraged them to think beyond sectoral boundaries, promoting a spirit of innovation and collective responsibility for addressing national and global challenges related to food availability, environmental balance, and economic inclusivity.
As a follow-up to the meeting, the Student Executive Board (BEM) of the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, Universitas Airlangga (FPK UNAIR), and the Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Pembangunan Nasional “Veteran” Jawa Timur (UPNV Jatim) agreed to design a joint agenda for the upcoming year. This plan includes collaborative workshops, academic discussions, and student-based projects that bridge both disciplines in research and community service. Such initiatives are expected to pave the way for a long-term partnership that promotes interdisciplinary collaboration and contributes directly to sustainable food production and environmental stewardship in Indonesia.
The partnership between FPK UNAIR and UPNV Jatim also highlights the increasing importance of student leadership in driving scientific collaboration and innovation. By fostering an interdisciplinary network of young researchers and changemakers, this cooperation aims to strengthen national capacity in food resilience while aligning with global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 14 (Life Below Water). Through this synergy, students are empowered not only as academic learners but also as active contributors to the nation’s development agenda.
This initiative marks an inspiring beginning for future cooperation between the two faculties. Both institutions expressed optimism that this academic partnership will continue to evolve, creating more inclusive, sustainable, and impactful programs that benefit students, local communities, and the broader academic landscape. With this joint effort, FPK UNAIR and UPNV Jatim reaffirm their commitment to advancing interdisciplinary education and real-world innovation for Indonesia’s food security and sustainable future.
