Lamongan – The Biology Study Program, Faculty of Science, Technology, and Education (FSTP), Muhammadiyah University of Lamongan (UMLA), conducted an industry visit to the Technical Implementation Unit (UPT) Herbal Materia Medica Laboratory in Malang on Tuesday (December 3, 2024) as part of the Technobiopreneur course. Fifth- and seventh-semester students participated in the visit, with lecturers Dr. Rofiatun Sholekha, S.Si., M.Sc., and Moh. Badrut Tamam, S.Pd., M.Sc.

The visit aimed to enhance students' practical knowledge, particularly in the use of medicinal plants. One of the main agenda items was a seminar on the use of herbal plants to control non-communicable diseases (NCDs). The seminar provided in-depth insight into the properties of various medicinal plants, which offer natural solutions for health management.

In addition to the seminar, students were also invited to participate directly in the practical process of making herbal products. One of the most interesting activities was a demonstration of making instant herbal drinks, a drink made from powdered rhizomes, such as turmeric. Students learned the processing process from raw materials to ready-to-consume products with high economic value.

Dr. Rofiatun Sholekha stated that this activity not only broadened students' knowledge about the potential of medicinal plants but also encouraged them to develop biotechnology-based entrepreneurial ideas. "Hopefully, this will equip students to contribute to the growing herbal industry," she said.

The activity received high enthusiasm from the students, who felt the experience opened up new opportunities for developing their knowledge and skills. Through this activity, the Biology Study Program hopes to continue producing innovative graduates who are ready to compete in the workforce.