FIKKIA NEWS – The role of alumni of the Faculty of Health Sciences, Medicine, and Natural Sciences (FIKKIA) Airlangga University has once again demonstrated a tangible impact on society. One such example is Fakhriyyah, an alumna of the 2019 Aquaculture study program who successfully developed a technology-based tilapia cultivation innovation in Banyuwangi through a business unit called i-Tawar.
Present at the 2026 Employer Meeting on Friday (10/04/2026), Fakhriyyah shared stories about her career development after graduating from FIKKIA.
Local Innovation with National Impact
Starting from Lateng Village, Banyuwangi, Fakhriyyah was able to integrate the knowledge she gained during her studies with the application of modern technology. Through technological approaches such as the Biofloc system and Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS) which focuses on tilapia cultivation, Fakhriyyah has succeeded in creating a freshwater cultivation model that is water efficient, has high stocking density, and is adaptive to land limitations in Lateng Village, Banyuwangi.
This bold step also led him to become a Finalist in Jagoan Tani, a prestigious event that is proof of recognition of his business capacity and marketing strategy and became a Young Awardee 30 held by Global Future.
The Steel Mentality Behind Success
Fakhriyyah acknowledged that the transition from student to professional wasn't instantaneous. She recalled how the struggle of studying, especially the practical exams in the laboratory—the iconic "Jedog Test"—played a significant role in shaping her mentality.
"The biggest challenge at the start of a career is the fact that theory and practice are different. We're required to be adaptable, understand professional ethics, and the unwritten rules of the workplace. That's where our mental toughness is truly tested," he said.
He also added that the experience that most influenced his current abilities was his Field Work Practice (PKL). For him, the key to working in the field is staying focused, maintaining a strong sense of curiosity, and actively asking questions to hone his communication skills.
Message for the Younger Generation
As part of Generation Z, Fakhriyyah advised FIKKIA students not to only focus on seeking theoretical knowledge in class, but also to focus on self-development.
“Don't just seek knowledge, but also focus improving ourselves. Build relationships and Branding yourself, and practice critical thinking and problem solving. If you never try, you will never know,” he said.
Closing the discussion, Fakhriyyah summed up tonight's event in three words: Warm, Inspiring, and Nostalgic. She hopes that FIKKIA will become even more global and visionary in the future, both nationally and internationally.
"Hopefully, the alumni ties from each study program at FIKKIA will become even stronger as a major supporter of FIKKIA's success in the future," he added.
Fakhriyyah's success is clear evidence that FIKKIA graduates not only excel academically but also become agents of change in society. The resulting innovations are expected to continue supporting food security and technology-based local economic development in the future.
Author: Farra Azzahrani
Editor: Avicenna C. Nisa