Efforts to strengthen the competitiveness of local products on the national stage demand continuous innovation, especially for the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) sector. In response to this challenge, the Community Service Team (TPM) from the Faculty of Agricultural Technology, Andalas University (Unand) took concrete steps by providing technological assistance for cracker artisans in Agam Regency, West Sumatra.
The head of the Faculty of Agricultural Technology TPM Unand, Mislaeni, explained that the main focus of this assistance is to transform the production methods, which have so far remained conventional. Traditionally, cassava cracker artisans in the region relied on drying under direct sunlight in open fields, which is highly dependent on weather conditions and vulnerable to dust exposure.
As a solution, the academics designed a 1x2 meter drying dome or house. This facility is built with a rust-resistant galvanized hollow frame structure that is knock-down or collapsible. This technology is equipped with a circulation fan and an exhaust fan to automatically maintain the temperature and humidity inside the room, thereby ensuring a more hygienic and efficient drying process.
"This drying house is capable of accommodating around 20 trays in a single production cycle. In addition to eliminating weather dependence, this tool ensures that the shape and quality of the product remain well-preserved," said Mislaeni, Friday (10/7/2026).
Not only limited to the technical production sector, the assistance program, which involves 50 students, also covers business development aspects. The lecturer team also provides guidance on flavor diversification, packaging design improvement, and obtaining business legalities so that MSMEs can penetrate wider markets. The assistance program, planned to run for six months, received positive appreciation from the local village government, particularly the Wali Nagari of Koto Tangah, Amrizal Gunawan, as a strategic step to advance the people's economy.
