CHINA – Politeknik Negeri Jember (Polije) is strengthening the quality of practical education through a lecturer’s participation in a Smart Agriculture training program in China. Dr. Elly Kurniawati, a lecturer in the Food Engineering Technology Study Program, explored food quality testing techniques at the Microbiology Laboratory of Jiaxing Vocational Technical College.

The international program, conducted in collaboration with HOPE Indonesia, runs from August 15 to September 15, 2026. The program enables lecturers to explore modern microbiological analysis technologies and food safety applications for tropical food products.

Elly conducted microbial isolation, bacterial culture testing, and food safety analysis directly with researchers in China. She also operated advanced digital laboratory equipment, complementing the theoretical knowledge taught in the classroom.

The laboratory research experience reinforces Polije’s commitment to modernizing practical learning facilities. The latest microbiological analysis techniques will also enrich practical course materials for Polije students.

“Hands-on practice in a microbiology laboratory in China provides new insights into international food testing standards,” said Polije representative Dr. Elly Kurniawati.

Elly explained that integrating microbiological testing methods with virtual simulations makes modern fermentation processes easier to understand. She also highlighted the efficiency of laboratory operations in China as a relevant model for strengthening applied research at Polije.

“We will apply these modern microbiological analysis methods to improve the quality of research conducted by Polije students,” Dr. Elly Kurniawati added.

Elly emphasized that Polije is ready to adapt laboratory procedures and standards learned in China into its practical course modules. This approach is expected to make students’ practical skills more relevant to the needs of the global food processing industry.

The international laboratory experience demonstrates the active role of vocational higher education in developing highly skilled human resources. The collaboration also expands Polije’s academic network at the global level.