JEMBER – A team of lecturers from Politeknik Negeri Jember (Polije) is encouraging students at SMK Negeri 2 Jember to develop Internet of Things (IoT) technology. The technology helps students monitor moisture levels during coffee and tobacco drying and storage.

The kick-off activity took place at SMK Negeri 2 Jember on September 25–26, 2026. The program is part of experiential research-based learning initiated by the Directorate General of Science and Technology under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology.

Coffee and tobacco were selected because they are among Jember Regency’s leading commodities. Through the program, students connect IoT technology with agricultural processing needs.

Ahmad Fahriyannur Rosyady, S.Kom., M.MT., head of the Polije Titik Kumpul Program, said the program consists of seven sessions. The initial stage covers program introduction, a pre-test, and basic mechatronics and electronics.

“The Titik Kumpul program will be conducted in seven sessions. At the initial stage, students will receive an introduction, take a pre-test, and learn the basics of mechatronics and electronics,” said Ahmad.

Next, students receive soft skills training and begin developing prototypes during the fourth session. They also visit Polije to learn about coffee and tobacco drying technologies.

In addition, students are introduced to Polije’s Coffee Teaching Factory (TeFa) facilities and receive materials from industry partners. These activities allow students to observe the direct application of technology.

Nurfarida Kusumastuti, S.Pt., M.P., Head of SMK Negeri 2 Jember, said the program provides students with new learning experiences. Students from the Mechatronics and Computer and Network Engineering programs have opportunities to develop prototypes.

“This activity strongly supports the improvement of students’ competencies. Students also gain experience in collaboration and developing prototypes that they had never worked on before,” said Nurfarida.

Meanwhile, Ir. Hendra Yufit Riskiawan, S.Kom., M.Cs., Head of the Polije Department of Information Technology, said the program strengthens collaboration. Polije and SMK Negeri 2 Jember also connect vocational learning with research outcomes.

“The Titik Kumpul program provides a platform for collaboration between Polije and SMK Negeri 2 Jember. It also promotes the downstream application of research on coffee and tobacco drying and storage,” explained Hendra.

Through the program, students connect mechatronics, electronics, and IoT knowledge with agricultural needs. They therefore gain practical experience in developing technology through learning and hands-on activities.