Yogyakarta, 11 October 2023 – Faculty of Biology UGM received a students visit from the Faculty of Biotechnology, Universitas Kristen Duta Wacana (UKDW), Yogyakarta. The visit is part of the Practicum activities for the DNA Technology Course. The visit was received at the Tropical Biology Auditorium as well as the Animal Systematics Laboratory, Faculty of Biology, UGM, by Dr. Dwi Sendi Priyono, S.Si., M.Si. as Public Relations Officer for the Faculty of Biology and Lecturer in the Animal Systematics Laboratory.
Dr. Sendi presented material related to the phenomenon of violence and illegal wildlife trade in Indonesia. He revealed the contribution of forensic DNA analysis in uncovering crimes against wildlife through DNA analysis of protected wild animals as well as various collaborations that have been carried out with related parties – police, BKSDA, prosecutors and so on – in handling evidence.
Located in the Animal Systematics Laboratory, Faculty of Biology, UKDW students then learn how to collect and analyze data from forensic DNA. Together with laboratory assistants, they tried to collect samples of original evidence such as tiger skin, tiger bones, sea cow bones and elephant tusks. Apart from that, students also practice collecting samples. They also learn the process of DNA extraction and learn to handle cases. Students were divided into 5 groups and each group was asked to complete each case and present the results.
The UKDW students who participated showed extraordinary enthusiasm during the case study presentation. It is hoped that this visit will provide more understanding and awareness among students regarding the urgency of handling wildlife crime and how the role of biology through forensic DNA analysis contributes to it, in line with the Faculty of Biology’s commitment to supporting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to improve education in the campus environment inclusiveness (SDG 4) and conservation support in accordance with the values of SDG 15.
