Aceh — BEM FISIP Malikussaleh University, in collaboration with Aneuk Muda Aceh Unggul Hebat (AMANAH) Aceh, held an MSME Seminar on Friday, August 30, 2024 in North Aceh with the theme “Students as the Driving Force of MSMEs: From Ideas to Implementation” in North Aceh.
The seminar, which was attended by hundreds of participants, aims to provide students with an in-depth understanding of their strategic role in the development of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
Vice Dean 3 for Student Affairs and Alumni of the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Subani, emphasized the importance of the role of students as agents of change. He hopes that through this seminar, students will not only be able to produce creative ideas, but also be able to implement them to build strong and competitive MSMEs.
“Through this seminar, we hope that students will not only be able to create new ideas, but also be able to apply these ideas to build strong and competitive MSMEs in everyday life,” he said.
Furthermore, Zulhery, Head of BEM FISIP UNIMAL, also gave his full appreciation for the collaboration between AMANAH Aceh and BEM FISIP UNIMAL. He emphasized that this synergy is a positive step in encouraging students to be more involved in the world of entrepreneurship.
“BEM’s commitment, which this time coordinates with AMANAH, is to continue to support activities that build students’ potential and skills, especially in the MSME sector, which is the backbone of the nation’s economy,” said Zulhery.
In addition, Sufi, Head of Study Program and also lecturer of Business Administration UNIMAL, as the first speaker said “The process for an entrepreneur is very important. Because it is the difference between a trader and a businessman, where a businessman has a plan to develop a business and expand its reach, while a trader will only sell his merchandise to make ends meet”. Sufi continued that an entrepreneur must have courage.
The second speaker, Yasur Arafat, a Young Entrepreneur, conveyed the importance of young people’s understanding of MSMEs to create jobs and their own businesses.
“Understanding MSMEs for the younger generation can provide business insights that support the local economy and teach business management, finance, HR, marketing, branding, public speaking, and business negotiation skills,” explained Yusuf.
Finally, Dahlan Ar Rahman, the third speaker and Former Chairman of the Small Business Incubation Center (PINBUK), said the importance of commitment and values of togetherness in business. He reminded that success in business requires commitment, human resources, and togetherness, not just willpower.
“If you want to start a business, you need commitment, human resources, and togetherness, not just a desire. Because policies in the environment and groups in business can affect success in business,” he concluded.
It is hoped that with this seminar, students will not only help MSMEs develop, but also gain practical experience that will be useful in their future careers.