EduAsiaNews, Padang — Universitas Negeri Padang (UNP), through its Training and Certification Unit (UPT Diklat dan Sertifikasi), in collaboration with the Faculty of Tourism and Hospitality (FPP), held competency assessments for the Barista, Baker, and Butcher occupational certification schemes on Thursday (August 13). The initiative is part of UNP’s efforts to strengthen students’ professional competencies while enhancing graduates’ readiness to meet the needs of the workforce and industry.
In his remarks, Head of the UPT Diklat dan Sertifikasi UNP, Dr. Zikri Alhadi, S.IP., M.A., said competency assessments play a strategic role in bridging higher education with the practical demands of the workplace. According to him, students are not only expected to possess academic knowledge but must also be able to demonstrate their skills against measurable and recognized competency standards.
“Competency certification is expected to provide added value for UNP students and graduates. The competencies acquired through the learning process must be demonstrable, recognized, and beneficial when they enter the workforce or pursue independent business ventures,” he said.
He further emphasized that strengthening training and certification is part of the implementation of Kampus Berdampak, an approach that encourages universities not only to produce graduates but also to develop human resources capable of making tangible contributions to communities, businesses, industries, and regional development.
The event also featured remarks and guidance from FPP UNP Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs, Dr. Kasmita, S.Pd., M.Si. She highlighted competency certification as an important component in improving the quality of FPP graduates, particularly in tourism, hospitality, culinary arts, and service industries, where professionals are expected to demonstrate verified competencies.
“This competency assessment provides students with an opportunity to demonstrate that the knowledge and skills they have acquired during their studies can be applied in accordance with professional standards. We hope participants will take the assessment seriously, remain confident, and uphold professionalism,” she said.
On the occasion, the FPP UNP Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs officially opened the Barista, Baker, and Butcher Occupational Competency Assessments.
The competency assessment is also aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, through the enhancement of learning quality and professional-standard competencies, and SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, through strengthening students’ skills, employability, and entrepreneurial capacity.
Through the initiative, UNP continues to advance the spirit of Kampus Berdampak by providing education that goes beyond academic achievement to deliver practical competencies, professional recognition, and graduates who are prepared to contribute to society and the workforce. The competency assessments are expected to serve as a concrete step toward producing UNP graduates who are competent, adaptable, professional, and competitive.
(UNP Training and Certification Unit)
