BENGKULU – University of Bengkulu (UNIB), in collaboration with the Indonesian Drone Pilots Association (Asosiasi Pilot Drone Indonesia – APDI), successfully hosted a public lecture (Kuliah Umum) titled “Smart Drone for Smart Development” on Wednesday, November 12, 2025. Held at the Meeting Room, 2nd Floor, Building B, LPPM UNIB, the event gathered academics, students, and drone industry practitioners to discuss the rapid advancement and multi-sectoral applications of drone technology in Indonesia.

The event commenced with an opening speech by Dr. Indra Cahyadinata, S.P., M.Si., Rector of University of Bengkulu, who highlighted the critical role of technology integration in higher education, research, and regional development.

The public lecture featured four distinguished speakers from academia and industry:

1. Dr. M. Akbar Marwan, S.T., M.M. (Chairman of APDI), delivered a comprehensive session on “The Development of Drone Technology in Indonesia,” sharing insights into current regulatory frameworks, industry growth trends, and future technological landscapes.

2. Dr. Eko Noprizal, S.Pt., M.Sc. (Lecturer in Marine Sciences at UNIB & Head of APDI Regional Bengkulu), presented on “Drone-based Mapping & Surveying,” demonstrating spatial data collection and modern mapping applications.

3. Nicko Arywibowo, S.P. (GM Public Relations, PT Tribuana Tekno Inovasi Teknologi), explored “Agricultural Drone Technology,” emphasizing modern precision agriculture, crop monitoring, and aerial spraying innovations.

4. Anton Chandra (Vice Chairman of APDI), showcased “Drone-based Photography & Videography,” sharing best practices in aerial creative media, safety standards, and visual storytelling.

A highlight of the event was the Special Live Drone Demonstration, where various types and models of drones were showcased in operation, providing participants with hands-on technical understanding and real-world exposure to drone flight capabilities.