To Expand Academic Achievements, Polman Negeri Babel Opens Three New Study Programs Through the Independent Pathway in 2026
The Bangka Belitung State Manufacturing Polytechnic (Polman Babel) is once again meeting the need for vocational education by opening three new technology-based study programs, coinciding with the opening of new student admissions for the independent pathway on Wednesday (April 8, 2026).
This strategic move is a breath of fresh air for the community, particularly in the Bangka Belitung Islands Province, who have previously had to travel outside the region to pursue higher education in certain fields.
The three new study programs officially opened are the Bachelor of Applied Plantation Crop Production Technology, the Bachelor of Applied Multimedia Engineering Technology, and the Bachelor of Applied Fisheries Cultivation Technology. These three programs are designed to meet the needs of industry and the region's leading potential.
The Director of Polman Babel, I Made Andik Setiawan, M.Eng., Ph.D., explained that the opening of these new study programs is based on the high demand for skilled workers in various strategic sectors. He noted the significant opportunities and needs in Bangka Belitung, "so that people who want to send their children to college no longer need to leave the region to receive education relevant to current industry needs."
I Made stated that the presence of these three study programs is expected to expand access to higher education while improving the quality of local human resources who will be competitive in job applications after graduation.
"Although initially, each study program will open one class with a student capacity tailored to the needs of the Department of Electrical Engineering and Agricultural Industry and the Department of Informatics and Business," I Made explained.
Furthermore, the Head of Academic, Student Affairs, and Cooperation at Polman Babel, Somawardi, M.T., stated that the opening of these study programs also takes into account the economic characteristics of the local community.
"Most of the people of Bangka Belitung work in the plantation and fisheries sectors. Therefore, the study programs we offer are highly relevant and needed," he explained.
He continued, "Graduates from these three study programs are expected to return to the region and contribute directly to the development of leading sectors, in accordance with the competencies they have acquired during their studies."
With the presence of these new study programs, Polman Babel is optimistic that it can become a center of superior vocational education that not only produces work-ready graduates but also drives sustainable regional economic growth," he explained.
