Building “Homeland” Technocrats: Inspiration from In-Depth Learning OJT at Al Zaytun Community Learning Center
By Ali Aminuloh
A New Gateway to Vocational Education: Indramayu as a Laboratory of the Future
Saturday, October 25, 2025, marked a significant milestone in the efforts to improve the quality of education in Indramayu, West Java. The Al Zaytun Community Learning Center (PKBM) in Mekarjaya, Gantar, Indramayu, was chosen to host the third On-Job Training (OJT) activity of the In-Depth Learning Training. From 8:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Western Indonesian Time, 17 participants—consisting of PKBM tutors and early childhood education (PAUD) teachers from various schools—along with two facilitators, Casudin, S.Kom., and Maftukhah, S.Pd., gathered for a transformative event.
The event, attended by two host tutors, Sahrul Abadi Haryanta, S.Pd., and Abdul Karim, S.M., M.Pd., was not simply a routine training session, but rather a space for in-depth reflection, encompassing coordination, implementation of OJT by model teachers, reflection and evaluation, and coordination of preparations for the upcoming “In ke2” training. However, the most inspiring essence came from the opening remarks.
“Critique” of Higher Education and the Birth of the Tanah AIR Polytechnic
The Head of the Al Zaytun Community Learning Center (PKBM), Dr. Ali Aminulloh, S.Ag., M.Pd., ME., opened the event with a thank you for the trust placed in him and an apology for any shortcomings in the welcome. More than just a welcome, the Head of the Al Zaytun Community Learning Center (PKBM) led the audience on a bold and down-to-earth vision for education. He outlined the development of education within Al Zaytun, including the establishment of the Tanah Al-Zaytun Indonesia Raya (Tanah AIR) Polytechnic.
He explained that this polytechnic was born from a profound critique of the higher education system, which has tended to overemphasize theory. Al Zaytun responded to this challenge by opening study programs precisely tailored to Indramayu’s local potential and simultaneously contributing to the nation’s economic strength: agriculture, fisheries, animal husbandry, forestry, and mechanical engineering.
“Now I’m concerned, no one wants to pursue those (agriculture, animal husbandry, and fisheries) because they’re synonymous with poverty. Yet, that’s the potential and what humanity needs.”
Dr. Ali Aminulloh then encouraged the training participants to instill the right mindset in their students. His grand vision is to produce technocrats in agriculture, fisheries, and animal husbandry who implement precise, science-based practices. This is an inspiring call to transform the image of the primary sector from a sweat-soaked job to a science-based profession.
Teaching Practice and Campus Tour Full of Lessons
After the inspiring opening session, the activity continued with a visit and hands-on teaching practice in PKBM classes. The enthusiasm of the 10th-grade Package C students was clear evidence that the spirit of learning knows no age limit. The training participants, who acted as model tutors, felt the positive energy and burning enthusiasm emanating from the students.
As recounted by Kasnali, S.Pd., from PKBM Al Hikmah: “We were given the opportunity to learn together with the 10th-grade Package C students. They were so enthusiastic and eager to participate in the learning. I hope this learning is beneficial and blessed.”
After the practical session, the inspiring agenda continued with a tour of the Ma’had Al Zaytun campus. The group visited the Education Secretariat, the Student Shipping Workshop, the Rice Palace, the North Main Gate, and the Rahmatan Lil Alamin Mosque. This opportunity served not only as an inspection but also as an extension of the learning environment.
Deep Impressions: Discipline, Independence, and the Learning Environment
This visit provided a holistic experience. Kasnali, S.Pd., emphasized: “The tour and environmental survey of Ma’had Al-Zaytun were extraordinary in complementing the learning facilities (teaching class) to complement the environment-based and grounded learning in the surrounding environment.”
Two facilitators also shared their deep impressions. Ms. Maftukhah, S.Pd., expressed her gratitude: “We were warmly welcomed and gained a wealth of new knowledge that not only broadened our horizons but also inspired us to continue learning and growing.”
Similarly, Casudin, S.Kom., was impressed by the campus atmosphere: “The well-organized environment, peaceful atmosphere, and camaraderie among the participants fostered a sense of gratitude and awe for the greatness of Allah SWT. Every corner of the Ma’had provides lessons in discipline, independence, and a love of knowledge.”
After lunch together, the participants returned to their respective assignments, carrying with them knowledge and inspiration that goes beyond just the OJT materials.
Epilogue: Changing Mindsets, Creating Strength
The story of PKBM Al Zaytun is a calling. It reminds us that true education is not just about memorizing theory, but about instilling a vision and changing our perspective. When we succeed, instill in students that the agriculture, fisheries, and livestock sectors are fertile ground for intellectuals and technocrats. That’s when we sow the seeds of the nation’s economic independence.
Let us work together to bridge the gap between classroom knowledge and the realities of the fields, seas, and farms. Because it is there, in our “Homeland,” that the power of a precise and sustainable future lies.*
Indramayu, October 25, 2025
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