BENGKULU – In a major milestone toward technological advancement and academic collaboration, University of Bengkulu (UNIB) officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indonesian Drone Pilots Association (Asosiasi Pilot Drone Indonesia – APDI) on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at the LPPM UNIB Building.

The strategic synergy aims to accelerate the development of education, research, and innovation in drone technology across Sumatra and nationally.

The signing ceremony was led by Dr. Indra Cahyadinata, S.P., M.Si. (Rector of University of Bengkulu) and Dr. M. Akbar Marwan, S.T., M.M. (Chairman of APDI), alongside representatives from APDI Regional Bengkulu and key industrial partners, including PT Tribuana Tekno Inovasi Teknologi.

Key Scope of the Strategic Cooperation:

• Educational Integration & Certification: Collaborative workshops, flight safety training, and potential pilot certification programs tailored for university researchers and students.

• Joint Research & Innovation: Collaborative projects focusing on agricultural technology, marine and coastal surveying, spatial mapping, and environmental monitoring.

• Community Service & Development: Implementing drone technology solutions for smart development in Bengkulu Province and surrounding regions.

Speaking during the ceremony, Rector Dr. Indra Cahyadinata emphasized that this collaboration bridges academia and practical industry applications, equipping UNIB graduates and researchers with cutting-edge skills relevant to Industry 4.0. Both parties expressed strong optimism that this institutional alliance will make UNIB a key hub for drone innovation and research in western Indonesia.