To provide a real-world perspective on public policy—particularly at the local government level—45 of sixth-semester students from the Development Economics Program, Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB), Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS), took part in a Field Study Lecture (Kuliah Kunjungan Lapangan/KKL) on Tuesday, 17 June 2025, at the Sukoharjo Regency Government Office.

This activity is part of the learning program for two courses: Public Policy Analysis and Public Economics II, taught by Ariyanto Adhi Nugroho, SE., M.Ec.Dev., MAPPI (Cert), a lecturer at FEB UNS. “Through this field study, students are expected to learn directly from public policy actors—not just through theories and literature. This is undoubtedly a valuable experience for students, especially as they can engage directly with the Vice Regent, department heads, and other relevant officials,” explained Ariyanto.

The activity was warmly welcomed by the Vice Regent of Sukoharjo, Eko Sapto Purnomo, SE. In his address, he stated that the current generation is working toward the vision of Indonesia Emas 2045. One of the ways to achieve this is by expanding access to education, including through initiatives like this field study. Students can learn how policies are formulated at the regional level. At the same time, students can also contribute through their research, offering insights and solutions to current issues.

He also highlighted the rapid development of Sukoharjo Regency. With a complex regional profile that includes rural, urban, and metropolitan areas, it demands policies that are both precise and contextually appropriate.

The event concluded with an open discussion session, allowing students to pose questions directly to department heads or their representatives. Among the most discussed topics were waste management, the digitalisation of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), and local innovations in addressing societal challenges.