TEKIM-UNIMAL-NEWS|Lhokseumawe, 2024 – Following the 2024 Curriculum Workshop held by the Chemical Engineering Program at Universitas Malikussaleh (Unimal), plans have emerged to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the new curriculum. This decision was made during the post-event discussions, which involved users, alumni, and community representatives.
The workshop, which initially aimed to enhance the Outcome-Based Education (OBE) curriculum, provided a platform for further discussions and evaluations of the proposed curriculum. The discussions continued among Chemical Engineering lecturers and the two invited experts, Prof. Suhendrayatna, M.Eng. from Syiah Kuala University and Prof. Ir. Maya Sarah, S.T., M.T., Ph.D., IPM from the University of North Sumatra, at the Faculty of Engineering.
During this follow-up session, the experts emphasized the necessity of adapting to the current era, where AI has become a significant part of both industry and society. They recommended integrating AI into various curriculum components, from data analysis and process simulation to advanced research methods.
“Integrating AI into the curriculum is crucial, not only to keep pace with technological advancements but also to equip students with competitive skills needed in the rapidly evolving industry,” said Prof. Suhendrayatna.
Participants of the meeting, including alumni such as Mr. Chasri Hanif (PT. Perta Arun Gas), Mr. Sabri (PT. Pema), and Mr. Agus (PT. Pupuk Iskandar Muda), endorsed the initiative, stressing the growing demand for AI knowledge in modern industries.
“AI skills are essential in areas like process optimization, predictive maintenance, and safety management. Students need to be familiar with these technologies,” remarked Mr. Chasri Hanif.
Dr. Lukman Hakim, S.T., M.Eng, the Head of the Chemical Engineering Program, expressed strong support for this plan:
“The decision to include AI in our curriculum aligns with our commitment to create an academic program that prepares students to face real-world challenges in the chemical industry.”
The meeting concluded with a plan to update the draft curriculum to include AI-focused courses, such as AI in Chemical Engineering, data-driven process analysis, and AI-based safety management. Lecturers, led by Dr. Fikri Hasfita, S.T., M.T., will collaborate further with industry experts to ensure that the AI components are practical, relevant, and aligned with industry demands.
Integrating AI into the curriculum represents a strategic move for Unimal's Chemical Engineering Program, demonstrating its dedication to innovation and excellence in education. As AI becomes increasingly vital in everyday life and the industrial sector, this initiative aims to better equip Unimal graduates to thrive in the evolving field of chemical engineering.
