Agroecotechnology Alumni Reunite with Former International Internship Mentors at UNIB Public Lecture and Workshop
Bengkulu, April 2026 — A meaningful moment took place during the Public Lecture and International Journal Workshop at the University of Bengkulu (UNIB), when two alumni, Andika Jody Setiawan and Puja Tri Rahma, reunited with their former international internship mentors, Prof. Kasem Soytong and Dr. Jiaojiao Song.
The event was held as part of UNIB’s 44th Dies Natalis celebration and featured discussions on modern organic agriculture, AATSEA certification systems, and international journal publication.
A Meaningful Academic Reunion
Andika Jody Setiawan, an alumnus of the Agroecotechnology Study Program, and Puja Tri Rahma, an alumna of the Soil Science Study Program, previously participated in an international internship program at King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang (KMITL), Thailand.
During the internship, both students were supervised by Prof. Kasem Soytong and Dr. Jiaojiao Song. The program provided them with valuable research experience in organic agriculture, which later became an important foundation for their undergraduate theses.
Long-Term Impact of International Internship
The data and experience gained during the internship significantly supported their academic work and final research projects. Their successful completion of undergraduate studies reflects how international exposure can strengthen students’ research capacity, academic confidence, and professional development.
This reunion marked more than a personal meeting. It also reflected the long-term impact of international academic collaboration between UNIB and partner institutions abroad.
Strengthening Global Academic Connections
The presence of Prof. Kasem Soytong and Dr. Jiaojiao Song at UNIB provided an opportunity to strengthen academic networks and explore future collaboration in organic agriculture, research training, and student mobility.
For the Agroecotechnology Study Program, this moment highlighted the importance of international partnerships in supporting student development, expanding academic horizons, and preparing graduates to compete in a global academic environment.
The reunion between alumni and their former mentors also served as an inspiring example for current students to pursue international learning opportunities and actively engage in research-based academic activities.
