The contributions and challenges of higher education on the value chain of halal certification

This study analyzed the distinctive contributions and obstacles encountered by higher education institutions in supporting halal certification in Indonesia. Employing a qualitative approach, the research utilized both primary and secondary data sources. Primary data was acquired through extensive interviews with key personnel such as the head of the halal center, halal process assistants, and halal auditors within higher education establishments. Secondary data, on the other hand, was gathered from various sources including halal centers, auditing bodies, and regulatory frameworks. The study revealed that the regulatory framework in Indonesia has positioned higher education as a pivotal player in the halal certification value chain alongside governmental bodies, ministries, Islamic organizations, and religious institutions. Emphasizing the roles and dilemmas faced by higher education, the research underscored the sector's significance in the halal certification process while highlighting persistent challenges, notably in terms of sustainability. State-affiliated higher education institutions were found to have significantly contributed to the advancement of halal certification, particularly through the self-declare scheme, and by cultivating essential resources for ensuring halal product integrity, such as proficient halal auditors and PPH assistants. Nevertheless, challenges persist in areas such as institutional dynamics, financial administration, and bureaucratic processes. The study's findings not only enrich the understanding of the halal certification value chain but also offer valuable insights for policy assessment and implementation.