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Politeknik Negeri Jember (Polije) in collaboration with Kyungpook National University (KNU), South Korea, officially launched the 2025 World Friends Korea – ICT (WFK-ICT) Volunteers Program at Polije Campus 2 Bondowoso. This international collaboration, held from 11th to 20th August 2025, aims to enhance knowledge exchange in the field of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) while supporting the implementation of a Smart City initiative in Bondowoso.
The program brings together student volunteers from KNU and Polije, working in joint teams to develop innovative solutions that integrate digital technology with urban management. Through this initiative, Bondowoso is expected to strengthen its digital infrastructure and improve public services, aligning with Indonesia’s national agenda of advancing smart city development in regional areas.
During the opening session, participants engaged in team presentations where they introduced their backgrounds, expertise, and project goals. This created an atmosphere of collaboration and cross-cultural learning, as both Indonesian and Korean students shared ideas on how ICT can be utilized to address local community needs. The event also emphasized the importance of global partnerships in fostering technological innovation.
The Smart City project itself focuses on several key aspects, including digital mapping, smart waste management, e-governance, and the application of Internet of Things (IoT) solutions for community services. Teams of students are currently working on prototypes that will be tested within the campus environment and potentially expanded to the wider Bondowoso community.
In addition to the technical projects, the program also promotes cultural exchange between Indonesia and South Korea. Both sides engage in interactive sessions such as language sharing, traditional games, and cultural performances. These activities strengthen mutual understanding and build long-lasting friendships beyond academic collaboration.
Faculty members from both Polije and KNU expressed their support for the initiative, highlighting that the program is not only about technology transfer but also about shaping young leaders with global competencies. They emphasized that the hands-on experience of working in a real-world environment will benefit students in preparing for future careers in the digital economy.
The presence of the WFK-ICT 2025 volunteers in Bondowoso also brings direct benefits to local stakeholders. Government representatives and community leaders have been involved in discussions, ensuring that the Smart City solutions developed by the students are relevant and applicable to the local context. This synergy is expected to accelerate the readiness of Bondowoso in adopting digital transformation initiatives.
As the program continues, participants are scheduled to present their final outcomes in a wrap-up session, showcasing their prototypes and recommendations for Smart City development. These outcomes will serve as a foundation for further collaboration between Polije, KNU, and local authorities in Bondowoso, paving the way for sustainable innovation and stronger international cooperation in the future.