On May 10, 2012, the Governmental Science Laboratory coordinated with the course instructors to organize a field visit to the Trenggalek Regency Government.
To sharpen and develop the insights of Governmental Science students, classroom learning alone is not enough. Field practice is necessary to observe firsthand the activities of the bureaucracy in carrying out its tasks and functions to serve the community. Drs. Krishno Hadi, MA., Head of the Governmental Science Laboratory, said, "Considering the rapid development of governmental science, students must be guided to actively understand both the concepts and practices of government. The visit to the Trenggalek Regency Government is part of the practical course on Regional Development Planning."
Dr. Rudianto, MA., the course instructor, said, "We were warmly welcomed by the Regent of Trenggalek. The Regent presented material to the students about the development planning carried out in the Trenggalek Regency Government," he said when speaking with a reporter from prodipnews.
"This visit aims to build and develop the students' understanding of government practices in the field. So, the students do not only understand the theory presented in class," continued the Head of the Industry and Trade Office of Malang Regency, explaining the purpose and goals of the field practice.
The visit, attended by 74 students, was welcomed by the Regent of Trenggalek, who presented material on the regional development planning of Trenggalek Regency. Ir. H. Mulyadi WR., M.MT, the Regent of Trenggalek, said, "A good regional development program is based on the local potential. Therefore, the development program of Trenggalek Regency is directed at empowering the local potentials, such as maritime resources, mining, and mineral resources," he explained, outlining the direction of Trenggalek's government development.
"Besides natural resource potential, the creativity of the community must also be empowered through strengthening local businesses, such as the production of roof tiles and typical Trenggalek snacks," he continued, elaborating on the development concept being implemented.
In addition to being welcomed by the regent, these sixth-semester students were also welcomed by the Secretary of the Trenggalek Bappeda, who specifically explained the regional development planning mechanism of Trenggalek Regency. The Bappeda Secretary said, "The regional development planning mechanism in Trenggalek Regency is the same as in other regions, which involves Musrenbang activities conducted annually. Musrenbang is carried out starting at the village, district, and up to the regency level. This mechanism is very effective for formulating development programs based on local potential," he explained to help the students understand.
From this visit, the students gained a lot of knowledge and experience. Rica Dwiyanti, a student who participated in the visit, said, "We are grateful to be able to join this program (field practice). We gained a lot of knowledge and experiences that we could never have obtained in class," she said.
