On August 27, 2024, Institut Teknologi Kalimantan (ITK) and Pegadaian signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at expanding collaboration across various fields, including education, research, community service, and the development of science and technology. The MoU signing ceremony was held on ITK’s campus, marking the beginning of several strategic initiatives that are expected to bring significant benefits to students and the wider community.

This collaboration is designed to create synergy between academia and the financial sector, with the expectation that it will provide broad benefits for both students and society. For students, these programs offer opportunities to gain practical experience, manage finances wisely, and support them in starting their own businesses. Additionally, this partnership has the potential to drive local economic growth by supporting MSMEs (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises) managed by students.

For ITK, this collaboration strengthens the institution’s commitment to providing education that is relevant to real-world needs, while also opening new opportunities in the development of science and technology. Meanwhile, Pegadaian gains the opportunity to collaborate with a higher education institution and reach a broader market segment through programs specifically designed for students.

The signing of this MoU marks a significant step forward in the relationship between ITK and Pegadaian. With these innovative programs, it is expected that there will be a lasting positive impact on ITK students and the broader community through enhanced economic and educational development. This is a tangible example of a mutually beneficial collaboration between the education and financial sectors, which is hoped to become a model for similar partnerships in the future.