The Aquatic Resources Management Study Program, Department of Fisheries, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), conducted an evaluation of the Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka (MBKM) Internship Program on April 29, 2025. This evaluation was carried out through on-site visits by academic supervisors to various MBKM partner institutions to observe internship implementation and gather feedback from stakeholders. The MBKM internship program aims to enhance students’ competencies by offering hands-on learning experiences in real-world work environments. Students were placed at various partner locations, including Pelabuhan Perikanan Nusantara (PPN) Rembang, PPN Brondong, Pelabuhan Perikanan Pantai (PPP) Mayangan, and PPP Tamperan.
During the visits, internship supervisors received positive feedback from host partners. At PPN Rembang, for instance, MBKM students were seen as highly supportive of port operations, assisting in both technical and administrative tasks that improved operational efficiency. Similarly, PPN Brondong reported favorable outcomes and proposed increasing the number of MBKM interns from six to ten for the next period. Partners from both ports expressed interest in establishing long-term collaboration with the Department of Fisheries, and recommended implementing a regular online communication platform such as Zoom meetings to facilitate ongoing evaluation and coordination between the university and internship sites.
The Department of Fisheries reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaboration with partners and improving protection measures for interns. Planned initiatives include drafting Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), regular coordination on ethics and safety protocols, student preparedness training, and the development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for reporting and supporting cases of violence or misconduct. These efforts aim to ensure that the MBKM program not only enhances students’ technical skills but also provides a safe and supportive learning environment.
One of the most remarkable testimonials came from the Head of Cilacap Oceanic Fishing Port, who praised UGM students for their exceptional diligence during the internship. The evaluation results indicate that the MBKM program has a positive impact on both students and partner institutions, and it is expected to become more effective in the future. This initiative aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, SDG 14: Life Below Water, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
Author: Fathurrahman Kafi
Editors: Nahla Alfiatunnisa, S.Pi.