Balikpapan - Another proud achievement has been recorded by a student of Institut Teknologi Kalimantan (ITK). Jerzan Hartadin, an ITK student from the 2022 cohort, successfully won 3rd Place in the Scientific Writing Competition (LKTI) organized by PT Pertamina Patra Niaga Refinery Unit V Balikpapan. The competition was held in Balikpapan, East Kalimantan, from January 18 to March 5, 2026.

In this competition, Jerzan presented a paper entitled “Utilization of Biofloc System and Automatic Feeding in Limited-Land Catfish Farming at Kampung Hijau Kaliandra.” This idea focuses on the use of simple and applicable technology to support more efficient catfish farming, particularly in areas with limited land availability.

Under the guidance of Muhammad Ridho Dewanto, Jerzan developed this scientific paper using a field-based problem-solving approach. Before joining the competition, he conducted field visits to directly observe the conditions and challenges faced by the local community. From this process, he formulated a solution through the implementation of a biofloc system combined with automatic feeding technology.

The innovation was designed to address community needs in developing catfish farming on limited land. The biofloc system is considered capable of helping maintain water quality and improving farming efficiency, while automatic feeding technology supports more regular and effective feed management. Through this idea, catfish farming is not only positioned as a productive activity, but also as a potential effort to strengthen food security and the local economy.

Jerzan stated that his motivation for joining the competition was his desire to channel the ideas he gained during his studies and turn them into solutions that could be implemented and benefit society.

“My reason for joining this competition was to channel the ideas I gained during my studies, so they could be implemented and bring benefits,” Jerzan said.

This achievement proves that ITK students are not only capable of competing academically, but also able to present solution-oriented ideas that are closely connected to community needs. Through this work, the spirit of ITK Berdampak is reflected in the student’s contribution to connecting knowledge, technology, and community empowerment.

Jerzan’s achievement also highlights the importance of learning experiences beyond the classroom. Field visits, problem analysis, and solution development became part of an academic process that shaped him to be more sensitive to social and environmental issues.

By winning 3rd Place in the Pertamina Patra Niaga RU V Balikpapan Scientific Writing Competition, Jerzan Hartadin is expected to continue developing his innovation so that it does not stop as a written concept, but can also be applied more broadly. This achievement further strengthens ITK’s role as a campus that encourages students to create, innovate, and deliver meaningful impact for the people of East Kalimantan.