BALIKPAPAN – The Faculty of Sustainable Development (FPB) of the Institut Teknologi Kalimantan (ITK) engaged various stakeholders from government institutions, industries, academia, and professional associations in developing its 2026–2030 Strategic Plan (Renstra). This initiative was carried out through a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) held on Tuesday (November 3, 2026), at Room A307, Building A, ITK Campus, Balikpapan, in a hybrid format.

The event aimed to gather input and recommendations to formulate a more focused, measurable, and adaptive direction for the faculty's development over the next five years, in alignment with regional and national development needs.

The FGD was officially opened by the Dean of FPB ITK, Ir. Alamsyah, S.T., M.T., followed by a presentation of the proposed Strategic Plan by Dr. Eng. Ir. Arief Hidayat, S.T., M.S.P., M.T., IPM., IAP. Presentations on the development directions of each department were also delivered by Mohtana Kharisma Kadri, S.T., M.Eng., representing the Department of Civil Engineering and Planning, and Basransyah, M.T., representing the Department of Maritime Technology.

The forum brought together several strategic partners, including the Regional Development Planning, Research, and Innovation Agency (Bappeda Litbang) of Balikpapan City, Balikpapan City Transportation Agency, Balikpapan City Youth, Sports, and Tourism Agency, PT Pelindo Multi Terminal, PT PGN LNG Indonesia, PT Meranti Nusa Bahari, Astra Infra Port, PT Wijaya Karya, Balikpapan Merchant Marine Polytechnic, Hasanuddin University, as well as representatives of professional associations and other relevant institutions.

During the discussion, one of the key recommendations highlighted the importance of expanding FPB ITK's contribution to development across Kalimantan. The faculty's development is expected not only to focus on the development of the Nusantara Capital City (IKN), but also to address the broader development needs of Balikpapan City and East Kalimantan.

A representative from the Balikpapan City Regional Development Planning, Research, and Innovation Agency encouraged the use of Balikpapan as a living laboratory to develop innovations and address various urban challenges. Key issues discussed included transportation, water resource management, logistics, disaster mitigation, infrastructure, and the utilization of digital technology.

Beyond regional development, the forum also addressed the importance of improving educational quality and graduate competencies to meet evolving workforce demands. Stakeholders encouraged curriculum adjustments in response to technological advancements, the expansion of project-based learning, and greater student involvement in applied research.

In the maritime sector, developments in port technology, modern logistics systems, and hybrid energy were highlighted as areas requiring stronger student competencies. Meanwhile, representatives from industries and professional associations emphasized the importance of student readiness for internship programs and the development of practical skills.

The development of educational facilities and infrastructure was also a key concern, particularly the availability of integrated laboratories and practical equipment that meet technological advancements and industry standards. Collaboration with local governments and industry partners is expected to support facility development, joint research, and community service initiatives.

Based on the discussions, three main priorities were identified to refine the FPB ITK Strategic Plan for 2026–2030: aligning the faculty's strategic direction with Kalimantan's development needs, strengthening the curriculum and student competencies to prepare graduates for the workforce, and accelerating the development of educational facilities and infrastructure through collaboration with government institutions and industries.

In response to these recommendations, the Vice Dean of FPB ITK, Dr. Eng. Ir. Arief Hidayat, stated that the input gathered during the FGD would serve as a basis for refining the Strategic Plan. The faculty will also continue to encourage student participation in research and technological development while expanding its academic contributions to society.

The event continued with a presentation of the discussion outcomes and the signing of the minutes of the meeting to document the shared understanding and recommendations of the stakeholders. The FGD concluded with closing remarks from the Rector of ITK, Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Agus Rubiyanto, M.Eng.Sc.

Through this initiative, FPB ITK is committed to developing its 2026–2030 Strategic Plan through a participatory approach that considers the needs and recommendations of various stakeholders. The document is expected to serve as a guideline for the faculty's development in improving the quality of education, research, community service, and strategic partnerships.

By strengthening collaboration among universities, government institutions, and industries, FPB ITK aims to produce competent human resources and innovations that deliver meaningful contributions to sustainable development in East Kalimantan and Indonesia.