Looking ahead, Unanda hopes this excursion marks the beginning of broader collaboration, including internship programs, applied research, and community service activities.
maritimeposts.com/ – University Universitas Andi Djemma (Unanda) expressed deep appreciation to PT Vale Indonesia (PTVI) for the recent student excursion of its Mining Engineering program to the company’s operational site in Sorowako.
The event, held on 6 December 2025, served as a valuable opportunity to strengthen synergy between academia and industry — and to deepen students’ understanding of sustainable mining practices and mineral downstream processing.
A total of 150 enthusiastic students participated in the excursion. They received comprehensive explanations on nickel mining processes, downstream processing, and the sustainability commitments implemented by PTVI. The agenda included presentations on best mining practices, environmental management, and a visit to the company’s nursery area to directly observe reclamation and revegetation efforts on former mining land.
The Rector of Unanda, Dr. Annas Boceng, said the activity aligns with the university’s vision to produce graduates who are well prepared to face industry challenges.
“We appreciate PT Vale Indonesia for opening a learning space for our students. This excursion not only expands their technical knowledge, but also introduces them to values of sustainability and integrity in the mining industry,” he stated. maritimeposts.com/
During the discussion session, PTVI presented their Best Mining Practice standards — covering sustainable mining operations efficiency, implementation of internationally standardized safety technologies and procedures, and nickel downstream processing using Rotary Kiln Furnace (RKF) to produce nickel matte.
The company also described its commitment to achieving Net Zero Emission by 2050, powered by renewable energy from hydroelectric plants in Larona, Balambano, and Karebbe — positioning PTVI as one of the industrial actors in Indonesia with the lowest carbon footprint.
Students also gained in-depth insight into the importance of integrity in exploration and accurate resource estimation using geostatistical techniques, as well as technical challenges in mine management — from mining methods, mine-water management, to environmental impact control.
The discussion was lively and included critical questions such as: “Why is integrity in exploration the key to a sustainable mining industry?” The question encouraged students to understand that sustainability is not only about technology, but also about ethics and transparency in data for decision-making.
Looking ahead, Unanda hopes this excursion marks the beginning of broader collaboration, including internship programs, applied research, and community service activities.
“This synergy will shape local talent who are competent and adaptive to social, environmental, and technological challenges,” the Rector concluded.
Editor Denun