Riau University Strengthens Entrepreneurship Ecosystem Through UPA PKK EXPO X INSTINCT IX 2025

University of Riau Strengthens the Entrepreneurship Ecosystem through UPA PKK EXPO X INSTINCT IX 2025

Pekanbaru, October 11, 2025 – The spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation among University of Riau students once again echoed through the UPA PKK EXPO X INSTINCT IX 2025, officially opened on Thursday (October 9, 2025) at the Integrated Classroom area of the University of Riau. The event was a collaboration between the Academic Support Unit for Career and Entrepreneurship Development (UPA PKK) of the University of Riau and the Institute for Scientific Studies and Information (LPII) of the Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB UNRI) , creating a lively and inspiring expo atmosphere filled with student creativity and innovation.

The opening ceremony was vibrant, attended by several University of Riau leaders, including the Vice Rector for Student Affairs and Alumni (WR III), Prof. Dr. Hermandra, S.Pd., M.A., who officially inaugurated the event. He was accompanied by Julita Saidi, S.E., M.Si., Ak., CA, Head of UPA PKK UNRI, along with other university leaders such as the Head of LPPMP UNRI and several faculty deans. Their presence symbolized the university’s strong support for fostering students’ potential and creativity in research and entrepreneurship.

The expo showcased a wide range of innovative products created by University of Riau students and alumni, reflecting the synergistic collaboration between UPA PKK UNRI and the Student Affairs and Alumni Department. The exhibits ranged from technology-based innovations and creative culinary products to culturally inspired local fashion. This year’s expo also served as a platform for participants of P2MW, KMP, and university entrepreneurship program recipients to present their works, introduce their innovations to the public, and receive direct feedback from visitors and university leaders.

This support plays a crucial role in strengthening the entrepreneurial ecosystem within the university, highlighting a shared commitment to developing students’ abilities to become independent, innovative, and globally competitive. Through the collaboration of various parties, this event not only serves as an appreciation platform for student projects and business ideas but also as a concrete step in building a sustainable entrepreneurship culture at the University of Riau.

In line with this, this activity also serves as a concrete part of Riau University's Key Performance Indicators (KPI), specifically in improving student achievement at the national and international levels, as well as developing entrepreneurial skills and graduate job readiness. Through activities like this, Riau University continues to encourage students to produce impactful, solution-oriented, and relevant work to meet the needs of industry and society.

In addition to the expo, the first day featured an inspiring seminar on entrepreneurship and business innovation, presenting two distinguished speakers. Jacob Win, a national P2MW judge, shared insights and strategies for succeeding in the KMI Expo and introduced the National Entrepreneurship Program 2026. Meanwhile, Wan Muhammad Hasyim, S.E., a business owner and Chairman of IKA UNRI, delivered practical insights on transforming a business idea into a sustainable enterprise.

The event was enthusiastically received by participants from various backgrounds, including University of Riau students and national competition finalists. Their enthusiasm reflected the strong spirit of the younger generation to innovate and contribute to the growth of Indonesia’s creative economy.

Through this collaboration, UPA PKK University of Riau hopes that the UPA PKK EXPO X INSTINCT IX 2025 will continue to serve as a platform for students to showcase their best potential, expand their entrepreneurial networks, and reaffirm the University of Riau’s commitment to being a nurturing home for young innovators ready to build the nation’s future.