Students of the Computer Network Engineering Study Program Visit the Indonesian Internet Service Providers Association (ASIP)

Accompanied by the Head of the Computer Network Engineering Technology (TRKJ) Study Program, Faculty of Industrial Technology, Bung Hatta University, Zulfadli, S.Kom.,M.Sc along with two lecturers, Budi Sunaryo, S.T., M.T., and Ir. Arnita, M.T., a total of 32 TRKJ students from various cohorts conducted an industrial visit to the Indonesian Internet Service Providers Association (APJII) Riau–West Sumatra Region on Monday, July 28, 2024.

The student group was warmly welcomed by the APJII Riau–West Sumatra management team, consisting of professional practitioners in their respective fields.

In his remarks, Chairman of APJII Riau–West Sumatra, S. Bambang Hary P., expressed his appreciation for the visit by Bung Hatta University’s TRKJ students. He hoped that such visits would continue in the future and encouraged students to take on the challenge of becoming entrepreneurs in the Internet Service Provider (ISP) sector by establishing their own companies—adding that he was personally ready to provide guidance.

During the visit, the students received explanations about the history, vision, and mission of APJII, as well as the important role the association plays in internet development in Indonesia. They also had the opportunity to learn how internet networks and data centers are managed and monitored, including security systems used to protect user data.

According to Zulfadli, S.Kom.,M.Sc, the Head of the TRKJ Study Program, the purpose of the industrial visit was to provide students with a deeper understanding of the internet and networking industry in Indonesia, particularly in the Riau–West Sumatra region. He also noted that the activity is part of the curriculum designed to enrich students’ knowledge in the field of information and communication technology.

“By visiting APJII, students can gain a deeper understanding of internet network infrastructure, the role of internet service providers, and the challenges and opportunities that exist in this industry,” he explained.

It was also mentioned that during the visit, APJII Riau–West Sumatra expressed its readiness to become a strategic partner of the TRKJ Study Program in the future by collaborating in several mutually beneficial programs—such as hosting student internships, providing industry expert lectures, and offering professional certification training.

Industrial visits like this are considered highly valuable for broadening students’ perspectives. They not only gain theoretical knowledge in class but also witness the real-world applications of what they have learned. This experience is expected to inspire them to pursue careers in information and communication technology and prepare them to face future professional challenges.

TRKJ students were also encouraged to think critically about the future of the internet industry, including developments in Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and cybersecurity. With a deeper understanding of these emerging trends, they will be better prepared to become competent professionals ready to face the future.

The industrial visit to APJII Riau–West Sumatra was a valuable and insightful experience for the TRKJ students. Beyond providing knowledge about the internet industry, the visit also opened opportunities for networking and a deeper understanding of career paths in technology. It is hoped that this visit marks the beginning of a successful career journey for the students.