The 2025 Higher Education and Professional College Edu Fair was held enthusiastically at the Balai Serba Guna Kaliwates, Jember. The event was organized by the Jember Education Office in collaboration with the Counseling and Guidance Teacher Association (MGBK) of high schools in Jember Regency. A total of 40 universities from various regions of East Java participated in this event, providing students with the opportunity to gather direct information about various higher education options in one place.
According to Cahyo Budi Laksono, the Senior High School Coordinator of the Jember-Lumajang Education Office, this event aims to help students, especially those in grade 12, in choosing a university that aligns with their interests and talents.
“We facilitate this event so that students know more about higher education. Although attending university is not mandatory, we hope that high school students will continue their education to a higher level,” said Cahyo.
Cahyo also emphasized the importance of motivating students to continue their studies, including options for studying while working. He explained that senior high schools are more directed towards preparing students for university, while vocational high schools (SMK) prepare students for direct entry into the workforce through vocational education.
“Higher education is like a nice house, it needs to be checked inside. Whether the desired major is available or not. Nowadays, students are more critical in choosing,” he added.
The Edu Fair also served as a platform for universities to promote their flagship programs. Each participating institution set up an information booth containing materials about study programs, student admission pathways, scholarships, and career prospects after graduation. Students appeared enthusiastic as they visited various booths to gather the information they needed.
One of the universities participating in the 2025 Jember Edu Fair was Politeknik Negeri Jember (Polije). Drs. Syaiful Bachri, M.M., the Head of Polije’s Public Relations Team, explained that Polije was present at the event in collaboration with Management and Science University (MSU) Malaysia.
“At Polije, we offer a program in collaboration with MSU Malaysia. Through this program, students can study at Polije while also attending MSU Malaysia, and they will eventually receive two degrees,” he explained.
In addition to the international partnership program, Polije also offers various vocational programs that focus on industry needs. The university provides excellent facilities, such as laboratories and hands-on training in the industry, which add value for students who want real-world experience in their field of study.
The 2025 Edu Fair is expected to be an inspiring platform for students to determine their academic future. By presenting a variety of universities and flagship programs, the event opens up more opportunities for students in Jember and surrounding areas to achieve the best education according to their interests and career goals. Moreover, support from various parties is hoped to make this Edu Fair an annual event that continues to grow and provide greater benefits in the years to come. (rda)