The Laboratory of Animal Structure and Developmental (SPH), Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), hosted an educational visit for 51 students from SMPIT Muhammadiyah An Najah, Klaten, accompanied by eight teachers, on Monday, October 26, 2026. This activity was organized as part of their Biology curriculum, specifically focusing on animal histology and anatomy through a hands-on laboratory practicum and direct observation.
The session began with opening remarks from the Head of the Laboratory, Dr. Ardaning Nuriliani, M.Kes. During the visit, the students had the opportunity to deepen their understanding of animal body structures and the relationship between the structure and function of organs through practical, experience-based learning. A key highlight was a dissection practicum involving tilapia, guided by 10 students from the Laboratory of Animal Structure and Development, ranging from undergraduate to master’s and doctoral levels. Through this exercise, the students were introduced to animal dissection procedures that adhere to the principles of animal welfare. Furthermore, the students studied the topography of the animal’s body and learned to identify the arrangement and location of various internal organs within the tilapia.
To further their understanding of animal body structures, the students also examined histological slides of several types of organs. This allowed them to identify the cellular and tissue components that make up these organs through microscopic observation. Consequently, biological concepts, previously studied only theoretically in the classroom became more tangible through direct observation and hands-on practical experience.
This initiative is expected to enhance the students’ knowledge, practical skills, and overall interest in Biology and the broader life sciences. These laboratory-based learning activities also serve as a form of support for achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4 Quality Education by providing contextual and interactive learning experiences that foster the development of students’ competencies.
Beyond the benefits for the students, these activities reflect the role of higher education institutions in supporting the educational process at the secondary school level. The collaboration between the Faculty of Biology, UGM and SMPIT Muhammadiyah An Najah Klaten is expected to strengthen partnerships between educational institutions and promote the sustainability of science-based educational programs. This effort aligns with SDG 17 Partnerships for the Goals, which emphasizes the importance of inter-institutional collaboration in supporting sustainable development. Through these educational initiatives, the Laboratory of Animal Developmental Structure at the Faculty of Biology, UGM, contributes to expanding access to applied science learning while strengthening the synergy between universities and schools to enhance the quality of education.
Contributors: Sefi Nur Anggaeni, S.Si. and Dr. Ardaning Nuriliani, S.Si., M.Kes.
