Universitas Dian Nuswantoro (Udinus) recently hosted a grand launching event for the Wirausaha Merdeka (WMK) program, aiming to empower young entrepreneurs in Indonesia. Udinus was selected as one of the 34 universities in Indonesia to pioneer this program as a PTP or College Executive
The grand launching took place on the third floor of E building, with the entire Udinus community actively participating. Prof. Dr. Ir. Edi Noersasongko, M.Kom., the chancellor of Udinus, officially inaugurated the WMK program by striking the Gong.
The program, themed 'Precision Technopreneurship,' is designed to foster an ecosystem of sustainable entrepreneurship by utilizing the precision of technology, including artificial intelligence and business intelligence. It aims to benefit students across Indonesia. The theme signifies that the inauguration of the 'Wirausaha Muda Merdeka' program at Udinus showcases the university's commitment to enhancing the program. By integrating precision technology and leveraging Artificial and Business Intelligence, Udinus aims to strengthen a sustainable entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Dr. Kusni Ingsih, M.M., the manager of the WMK program at Udinus, encouraged Indonesian students to seize this opportunity. Udinus had implemented a strict selection process conducted by the Wirausaha Merdeka program reviewers. The selection criteria included evaluation of the university’s profile, engagement in entrepreneurship programs, and proficiency in financial management. Udinus had set a maximum quota of 400 students for participation in the program.
Dr. Kusi informed “Being the member of the PTP program provides Udinus with a significant opportunity. We have allocated a 60 percent quota for Udinus students and a 40 percent quota for students from outside Udinus. Furthermore, we encourage students to participate and embody the commitment of real contribution toward Indonesia.”
She also said that Wirausaha Merdeka (WMK) program would focus to provide innovative learning space outside of lectures. Supporting students to improve their competence in becoming high-quality human resources.
“Through WMK Udinus, we are expecting students to change their mindset on entrepreneurship, and hopefully they can support themselves with entrepreneurship competence until they can make their prototype.” Explained Dr. Kusni.
Prof. Dr. Ir. Edi Noersasongko, M.Kom. as the chancellor of Universitas Dian Nuswantoro commented that technology was related to entrepreneurship. In his perspective, two things needed to be done in running the technology-based entrepreneurship. The first step was to identify the basic needs, followed by understanding the technological requirements. The WMK program at Udinus provides an excellent platform for students to acquire hands-on business education, making it an ideal facility for direct business learning
“Two of the results of technology-based entrepreneurship were Gamelan Robot and Chess Robot of Udinus College (Rocaku). The technology-based entrepreneurship can change something that was considered old into a higher value.” Said the Chancellor.
Appreciation From Kemendikbud Ristek toward the WMK Udinus Program
The event which was initiated by The Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology (Kemendikbud Ristek) was aimed at students from various levels of education. Including Diploma (D3), Applied Bachelor (D4), Bachelor (S1), and Master (S2). The requirement to register in this program was active students at least in the third semester, filling out the administrations as well as the essential files. Which was listed on the official website of WMK Udinus.
Adrian Bany Kansil, the Manager of the Indonesian Ministry of Education and Culture's Independent Entrepreneurial Program, stated that 34 universities participated in the program, including Udinus. The WMK program is part of the government's initiative to foster entrepreneurship, aims to cultivate an entrepreneurial spirit among students. Additionally, it provides valuable entrepreneurial experience and enhances students' business potential.
“This program of Wirausaha Merdeka with the Technopreneurship concept was really effective to encourage students to be young entrepreneurs. By participating in this program, students can enjoy several benefits, one of which is the opportunity to convert their System Credit Semester.” Informed Adrian
Currently, the registration of WMK Udinus program is still available on the official website wirausahamerdeka.id until next Monday, July 10th 2023. (Udinus Public Relation/Alex. Photo: Udinus PR)