Polibatam Hands Over Coastal Plastic Waste Processing Technology to SMK Kartini Batam to Support STEM Learning

BATAM — Politeknik Negeri Batam (Polibatam) carried out a Community Service Program in collaboration with SMK Kartini Batam on October 16, 2026, at Politeknik Negeri Batam. The program aimed to support Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)-based learning through the use of coastal plastic waste processing technology, while strengthening competencies in digital design and manufacturing.

The activity was part of the 2026 BIMA-funded Community Service Program supported by the Directorate of Research and Community Service (DPPM), Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology. This funding support plays an important role in encouraging the application of science and technology to provide tangible benefits for the community, particularly in strengthening vocational education and environmental awareness.

The program included training in product design using SolidWorks, hands-on practice with 3D printing technology, as well as training on the operation of plastic shredding machines and extruders. Through these activities, teachers and students gained direct experience in digital product design, plastic material processing, and the application of manufacturing technology in STEM-based learning.

As part of the program, Polibatam also officially handed over a plastic shredding machine and an extruder to SMK Kartini Batam. The equipment is expected to support the continuity of practical learning, improve the skills of teachers and students, and create opportunities for the development of innovative products made from plastic waste.

The community service program was conducted by a team of Polibatam lecturers led by Adi Syahputra Purba, together with lecturers from the Department of Mechanical Engineering. Students from the Mechanical Engineering Study Program at Politeknik Negeri Batam were also involved as activity assistants.

Through the collaboration between Polibatam and SMK Kartini Batam, supported by BIMA 2026 funding, the program is expected to strengthen innovative, practical, and sustainable STEM learning. The initiative also reflects the contribution of vocational higher education in improving the competencies of younger generations while providing technology-based solutions to coastal plastic waste issues.

#Polibatam #BIMA2026 #DPPM #Kemdiktisaintek #CommunityService #SMKKartiniBatam #STEM #SolidWorks #3DPrinting #MechanicalEngineering #PlasticWasteProcessing #VocationalEducation #SustainableInnovation