UNDIP, Semarang (October 3, 2025) – Universitas Diponegoro (UNDIP) continues to strengthen its reputation in world-class applied research. At the end of September, the Industrial Chemical Engineering Technology (TRKI) Study Program of the Vocational School hosted an external examiner from Setsunan University, Japan — Prof. Hidefumi Yoshii, Ph.D. (Food Engineering, Emeritus Professor of Kagawa University) — during a student research defense session. This academic collaboration is part of the Adjunct Professor Program, designed to enhance UNDIP’s international network while enriching students’ insights in applied research.
During the session, Sheva Risga Tristarini, a TRKI student, presented her research titled “Encapsulation of Linalool in Beta Cyclodextrin/Potato Protein Isolate with Beeswax Coating Multi-Layer to Improve the Retention and Shelf Life of Aromatic Compound.” The study focuses on nanoencapsulation technology using natural materials to enhance retention and extend the shelf life of linalool, a compound widely used in the food and aromatic industries.
Supervised by Hermawan Dwi Ariyanto, Ph.D., the research represents a concrete effort to develop methods that are both efficient and environmentally friendly. The innovation not only responds to industrial needs but also provides sustainable solutions to global challenges in the food and health sectors.
During the open examination, Prof. Yoshii offered detailed assessments and valuable feedback to help refine the research direction. The involvement of an international examiner not only boosts the credibility of the research but also fosters broader academic discourse aligned with global standards.
The internal examining team—Prof. Dr. Ir. Budiyono, M.Si., Dr. Mohamad Endy Julianto, S.T., M.T., and Anggun Puspitarini Siswanto, S.T., Ph.D.—also provided critical analyses and constructive suggestions. The collaboration between internal and external examiners reflects academic synergy that strengthens the overall quality of student research at UNDIP.
According to Prof. Budiyono, Dean of the Vocational School, this activity is an important platform to introduce student research to the global stage.
“By inviting international examiners, students gain new perspectives that enrich the quality of their research and reinforce UNDIP’s position on the global map,” he stated.
Echoing this sentiment, Dr. Mohamad Endy Julianto, Head of the TRKI Study Program, emphasized that this experience is a strategic step better to prepare students for the challenges of the research world. “Direct interaction with international experts inspires our students to be more confident in scientific publications and future research careers,” he explained.
This initiative reflects UNDIP’s tangible commitment to its vision of “Noble and Valuable UNDIP”, supporting the “Diktisaintek Berdampak” program. Through innovative research based on natural materials, UNDIP contributes to the realization of sustainable industrial development, in line with SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure).
More than just an academic collaboration, this event demonstrates that vocational student research can significantly contribute to scientific advancement while addressing global challenges. UNDIP reaffirms its identity as a university that not only prioritizes education but also produces innovations that benefit society and the world. (Public Communication/UNDIP-SV/Endy; Ed. DHW)
