Manila, Philippines – The Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) participated in the Asian Science Deans Forum 2024 (ASDF 2024), held from July 8 to 12, 2024, at the Crimson Hotel, Filinvest City Manila, Philippines. The UGM delegation, led by Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, Dean, and Dr. Bambang Retnoaji, Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs, joined esteemed faculty members from science and technology universities, schools, colleges, and academic departments across Asia. This initiative aimed to foster partnerships among Asian universities, create research projects, and contribute solutions to societal problems, focusing on environmental sustainability and socio-economic development.
One of the key topics at ASDF 2024 was the environment, particularly ecosystem protection and the efficient use of resources. The Faculty of Biology at UGM is particularly interested in these areas, as they align with their ongoing research and educational initiatives aimed at promoting sustainability.
The UGM delegation shared their experiences and strategies in integrating sustainability into their curriculum, which aligns with the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and emphasizes the importance of preparing future generations to tackle environmental challenges.
The forum also opened up networking opportunities, fostering the mobility of researchers, professors, and students, creating new cooperation across Asia, and enhancing the academic and research capabilities of the participating institutions. Consequently, the UGM delegation was able to expand their international collaborations.
ASDF 2024 featured a series of workshops, panel discussions, and keynote speeches from leading experts in various fields, providing valuable insights and practical knowledge that can be applied to address pressing environmental and socio-economi.
The event also highlighted the importance of global partnerships in achieving sustainable development. By working together, universities across Asia can pool their resources and expertise to make a significant impact on the environment and society.
The participation of the Faculty of Biology at UGM in ASDF 2024 underscores their commitment to advancing environmental sustainability and education for sustainability. By engaging with peers from across Asia, they hope to gain new perspectives and insights that will enhance their efforts in these areas.
The Faculty of Biology was also initiating a collaboration with Sultan Qaboos University, Oman, during ASDF 2024. This significant partnership aims to foster scientific research and academic excellence for both parties. Dr. Talal Khalifa Al Hosni, Dean of Sultan Qaboos University, Oman, plays a pivotal role in this collaboration.