BONDOWOSO — Politeknik Negeri Jember (Polije) delivered a portable solar-powered dryer to KTH Sejahtera in Bondowoso. The handover took place in Petung Hamlet, Kretek Village, Taman Krocok District, Bondowoso, on September 21, 2026.

Qanitah, S.ST., M.T., led the implementation of the appropriate technology program. The technology helps coffee farmers address challenges in drying coffee beans in mountainous areas.

Previously, KTH Sejahtera members relied on direct sunlight to dry coffee beans. This method made the drying process highly dependent on weather conditions.

The area’s geographical conditions also create challenges for coffee post-harvest processing. The Polije team had to travel through difficult mountainous roads to reach the partner’s location.

The solar-powered dryer has a capacity of approximately 30–40 kilograms of wet coffee beans. The equipment uses solar energy and provides a more protected drying space.

Faruq Avero Azhar, S.ST., M.Eng., a member of the implementation team, said that technology should adapt to local community conditions. This adaptation includes geographical conditions and energy availability at the partner’s location.

“Technology should consider not only technical aspects, but also geographical conditions and energy availability,” said Faruq.

The Polije team began the program with field visits and technical discussions with KTH Sejahtera. The team then designed, built, and installed the solar-powered dryer at the partner’s location.

Head of the Jember Regional Forestry Branch Office, Sumantri Radiasnyah, S.Hut., M.Si., attended the activity. KTH Sejahtera advisor Edy Yulianto also participated in the event.

KTH Sejahtera Chairperson Sudaryanto expressed his appreciation for Polije’s technology implementation. He said the equipment provides farmers with an alternative method for drying coffee beans.

The Polije team also provided information sessions and hands-on training on operating the equipment. After the training, the team officially handed over the solar-powered dryer to KTH Sejahtera as the technology recipient.

The Directorate of Research and Community Service under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology funded the program. The funding came from the 2025 fiscal year.

The implementation of the solar-powered dryer supports coffee post-harvest processing in the mountainous areas of Bondowoso. The technology also expands the use of renewable energy to support local communities.