History of the Culinary Arts Study Program in Politeknik Pariwisata Makassar
Politeknik Pariwisata (POLTEKPAR) Makassar began its academic journey with the establishment of the Balai Pendidikan dan Pelatihan Pariwisata (BPLP) in Ujung Pandang on September 18, 1991. Initially, BPLP utilised a building provided by the South Sulawesi Provincial Government and offered certificate programs in Front Office, Housekeeping, Food and Beverage Service, and Food Production for hotel employees. In 1992, BPLP opened Diploma 2 programs to the public, adding a Travel Business program in 1993 to meet the needs of the tourism industry.
In 1997, BPLP Ujung Pandang was upgraded to Akademi Pariwisata (AKPAR) Ujung Pandang, transitioning its Diploma 2 programs to Diploma 3, including the Food Production Management program. This marked a significant milestone in the institution’s culinary education. In 2007, along with the city’s name change, the academy was renamed Akademi Pariwisata Makassar.
In the same year, Akademi Pariwisata Makassar moved to a new 16-hectare campus in Tanjung Bunga, equipped with modern facilities to ensure high-quality education. The Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy fully funded the campus development.
The Food Production Management program at Poltekpar Makassar has undergone several accreditation processes to ensure the quality of education provided. In 2007, the program received a “B” accreditation rating, which was maintained in subsequent accreditations in 2013 and 2015. The third accreditation process in 2018 and 2019 saw several programs, including Culinary Arts Management, achieve an A rating.
In 2015, Akpar Makassar officially became Politeknik Pariwisata Makassar. Later, the Minister of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology issued Decree No. 369/D/OT/2022, renaming the Food Production Management program to the Culinary Arts Program for the Diploma Three degree.
The Culinary Arts Program at Poltekpar Makassar continued to evolve and received an “Excellent” accreditation from BAN-PT in 2021, based on Decree No. 59/SK/BAN-PT/Akred/Dipl-III/I/2021, valid until 2026. This program focuses on developing culinary and managerial skills while meeting the high standards of higher education quality set by national accreditation bodies.
With international-standard facilities such as a Kitchen Laboratory, Restaurant and Bars, Library, and IT Center, Learning Class Poltekpar Makassar ensures that students receive comprehensive and practical learning experiences, preparing them for successful careers in culinary and restaurant management.