This community service program is one of the Independent Learning Community service programs(MBKM) for the Faculty of Biology UGM conducted by Prof. Dr. Kumala Dewi MSc.St. along with two students, Alfina Damayanti (2020) and Estherina Claudya Manurung (2020) have been running since April 2023. Sunday, 11 June 2023 was conducted socialization of verticulture and hydroponic techniques for the PKK group RT 01 Dusun Blotan, Wedomartani, Sleman, from 09:00 to 11:00 WIB in Pendopo Blotan and was attended by 15 participants.

The material was presented by Prof. Dr. Kumala Dewi MSc.St. Verticulture is a plant cultivation technique where plants are grown vertically or in gradual stages. This method aims to optimize the use of narrow land space. The vegetables chosen for vertical cultivation are economically valuable, have short-lifespan, and have shallow roots. Some common vegetables are lettuce, water spinach (kangkung), spinach, chinese cabbage (pokcoy) and mustard green (caisim).

Hydroponic, on the other hand, is a method of growing vegetables without using soils, where plants are planted in a nutrient-rich solution. Hydroponic systems utilize water efficiently and reduce its consumption compared to traditional farming methods. The benefits of Hydroponic include faster plant growth, better nutritional control, and a reduced risk of disease. The nutrient-rich solution consists of ComponenT A  and component B. Component A contains macro nutrients such as nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), as well as some microelements needed by plants. These macro nutrients are usually found in the form of inorganic salts that are water-soluble, such as nitrates (NO3-), phosphate (PO4-), and potassium nitrate (KNO3). The B-component contains additional nutrients such as calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), as well as microelements that are also important for plants. In hydroponic technique it is important to monitor and manage pH and EC (electric conductivity) of nutrient solutions on a regular basis. In addition, the pH of the solution should be kept to stay within the appropriate range for nutrient absorption by the plant, usually around 5.5 to 6.5. During the practice of verticulture and hydroponics, the program received assistance from Mr. Edi from SG. Agroniaga, Tajem and Yogyakarta. Furthermore,  the PKK members,Rt 01 were provided with a planting bag system for verticulture as well as vegetable seeds for practice at home.

During the Festival of Ideas, The 21st Indonesian Scholars International Convention (ISIC), Indonesia achieved an honor for the success of Jimmy Al Fa’is and Elvian Indah Nilamsari,who secured first place in an international essay competition. They outperformed competitors from all around the world with their ideas on the topic of  Sustainable Transition. These two students proposed opportunities for Indonesia to achieve energy independency by harnessing the potential we possess.

ISIC is a scientific forum that was organized annually by the United Kingdom Student Association of Indonesia. In 2023, one of its events was  an essay and scientific poster competition open to all Indonesian students across the country. The competition was highly competitive,participated by Indonesian students from 10 different countries. This year, there were 3 essays with 2 nominations contested. (1st and 2nd Place). On this achievement, they were invited to attend an international conference at Nottingham University, UK.

Elvian and Jimmy proposed a comprehensive approach to the sustainable energy transition in Indonesia.They presented strategic steps for Indonesia to achieve energy self-sufficiency through the conversion of food waste. Using bioreactors, they showed how microorganisms can efficiently convert food waste into lipid-rich materials, which can be converted into biodiesel as a clean and renewable energy source. The scientific approach emphasized the importance of waste reduction, promoting environmental responsibility, and harnessing Indonesia’s potential in the renewable energy sector.

The idea originated from the challenges posed by an increasing population and the rising energy demand.consequently,the Indonesian government must meet energy needs, including fuel. However, fossil fuels, which have been the primary global energy source, are depleting rapidly and pose significant environmental threats. Based on these facts, Elvian and Jimmy proposed the innovation of a mini bioreactor that can be operated on both small and large scales. This innovation is expected to increase biodiesel production and lead Indonesia towards energy self-reliance.

Friday, August 18^th 2023, Associate Professor from Antioch College, Ohio, United States, Assoc. Prof. Richard Kraince conducted a discussion on initiating research collaboration with the Faculty of Biology via online. The discussion was attended by the Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration and Alumni Affairs, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc, Tyas Ikhsan Hikmawan, M.Sc., Ph.D., and Nur Indah Septriani, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D. from the Office of International Affairs of the Faculty of Biology and Mukhlish Jamal Musa Holle, S.Si., M.Env.Sc., D.Phil. from the Ecology Laboratory of the Faculty of Biology.

Assoc. Prof. Richard is an Associate Professor of Cooperative and International Education from Antioch College, Ohio, United States of America. His research is mostly related to religious movements, environmental conservation campaigns and progressive international education networks, as well as many studies that focus on Southeast Asia and Africa. In a discussion with Faculty of Biology UGM, he expressed his desire to collaborate in an Ecology Education Research project in the Southeast Asian Region and work with Malaysia (Department of Science Studies, Universiti Malaya) and Philippines (Atendeo de Manila University Institute of Sustainability). Apart from that, Richard also explained about Antioch College and his last visit to Indonesia and his collaborative project with LIPI (now BRIN).

Dr. Eko then made a presentation regarding the profile of the Faculty of Biology UGM, study programs and potential collaborations. Dr. Eko really opens up opportunities for collaboration with Faculty of Biology. On this occasion, an expert lecturer from the Ecology Laboratory, Mukhlish Jamal Musa Holle, S.Sc., M.Env.Sc., D.Phil. who can collaborate in the ASEAN Ecological Education Research Project.

The discussion was a great bridge to increase the collaboration network of the Faculty of Biology. Richard also hopes to establish good research collaborations and looks forward to his planned visit to Faculty of Biology next year. In addition, this collaboration is a commitment from the Faculty of Biology in supporting sustainable development and in accordance with the sustainable development goals (SDGs), namely quality education (SDGs 4) and partnerships for the goals (SDGs 17).

Friday, 18 August 2023, the Faculty of Biology attended a discussion by the National University Singapore. The discussion was also attended by colleagues from Directorate of Research, Faculty of Geography, Faculty of Forestry, and Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Gadjah Mada with a total of 11 participants in the discussion. From the Faculty of Biology attended by Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration, and Alumni Affairs, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc, and Nur Indah Septriani, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D. from the Office of International Affairs of the Faculty of Biology. Meanwhile from the National University Singapore attended by Prof. Lian Pin Koh from the Faculty of Science.

Dr. Eko as Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration, and Alumni Affairs of the Faculty of Biology had the opportunity to present faculty profiles, study programs, research focus and interests, also potential collaborations such as student exchanges, double degrees, and so on. Representatives from each faculty also had the opportunity to present the profiles of each faculty to find common ground that could be collaborated on.

Furthermore, Prof. Lian Pin Koh from the Faculty of Science, National University Singapore (NUS) appreciated the initiation of the collaboration between the UGM faculties and NUS. Prof. Koh is the Director of the Center for Nature-based Climate Solutions NUS, a center for studies focused on climate policy, strategy and action in Singapore and Asia-Pacific Region. He is also the Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple Chair Professor of Conservation NUS, Vice Dean of Research Faculty of Science, and Director of NUS’ Tropical Marine Science Institute. Prof. Koh explained his faculty profile at NUS which consists of 7 Departments including Biological Science, Chemistry, Pharmacy, Math, Statistics, and Physics. Prof. Koh himself is an expert in the field of ecology and environment. He conveyed the potential for collaboration that can be carried out within the scope of research related to climate change which is a special focus at NUS, urban farming, and aquaculture.

Subsequent discussions focused on the potential for collaboration that could be explored in each faculty unit at UGM. Dr. Eko from the Faculty of Biology delivered an initiation for student exchange that could collaborate with the undergraduate training program held at NUS. For forestry and mangrove research, NUS has collaborated with many parties from Indonesia, Malaysia, and Philippines and does not rule out opportunities for collaboration with faculties at UGM. Meanwhile for marine biology research, Prof. Koh expressed his appreciation for the potential for collaboration with Dr. Eko, mainly related to microalgae research. Besides that, Dr. Eko and other delegations from the Faculty of Biology plan to visit Singapore in October, so it will be a great opportunity to focus on the collaboration between the two parties. From the Faculty of Geography itself also conveyed the potential for research collaboration with expert lecturers including on the topic of carbon sequestration and marine science.

The discussion is a great bridge to increase the collaborative network of Gadjah Mada University, especially the Faculty of Biology with the National University Singapore. The collaboration is expected to produce outputs such as research results that can be of benefit to the wider community. In addition, this collaboration is a commitment from the Faculty of Biology UGM in supporting sustainable development and in line with the sustainable development goals (SDGs), namely quality education (SDGs 4) and partnership for the goals (SDGs 17).

As a follow-up to the collaboration initiation last June, Universitas Gadjah Mada through their Office of International Affairs held a collaborative discussion with the University of Warwick, United Kingdom, Friday, August 10^th 2023. The discussion was attended by 15 participants from Universitas Gadjah Mada and the University of Warwick. The discussion was attended by representatives from the Faculty of Biology, Faculty of Humanities, Faculty of Psychology, Faculty of Engineering, and the Graduate School of Universitas Gadjah Mada. From the Faculty of Biology attended by the Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration, and Alumni Affairs, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc. From the University of Warwick attended by Vicky Strudwick as International Partnership Manager for East and South East Asia, and Dr. Irwanda Laory and Dr. Yudhi Ariadi from the School of Engineering, University of Warwick.

The discussion began with introductions and collaborations that had been discussed or planned with the University of Warwick. Dr. Eko conveyed that the collaboration between the Faculty of Biology and the University of Warwick had been going on for a long time through collaborative research conducted by expert lecturers from the Faculty of Biology, Prof. Dr. Endang Semiarti, MS, M.Sc. and Dr. Yekti Asih Purwestri, M.Si with Prof. Jose Gutierrez Marcos from the School of Life Science University of Warwick. Furthermore, the Graduate School UGM delivered an introduction regarding the Disaster Management program and Biotechnology Study Program. Collaboration in the form of Joint Supervision, General Lecture and Research is highly expected with the University of Warwick. From the Faculty of Psychology conveyed the initiation of potential collaboration and their closest agenda, namely an international conference while from the Faculty of Engineering explained the potential for double degree collaboration following the research collaboration they had previously carried out.

Vicky as the International Partnership Manager of the University of Warwick appreciated the collaboration initiatives that were discussed. She said that collaboration could be carried out in the scope of research related to health to sustainable development and potential for Doctoral Joint Supervision collaboration up to a double degree.

Dr. Irwanda added that collaboration must be supported by scholarships such as the LPDP which is supported by the government at both the doctoral and master levels. The potential for double degree collaboration 2+2 and 3+1 is very likely to be discussed again. Even so, there are still many limitations from the LPDP which can limit collaboration and there needs to be special communication with scholarship providers for the best mechanism, especially in the double degree program.

This discussion is a great bridge to increase the collaborative network of Universitas Gadjah Mada, especially the Faculty of Biology with the University of Warwick after the research collaboration that had taken place previously. In addition, this collaboration is a commitment from the Faculty of Biology UGM in supporting sustainable development and in line with the sustainable development goals (SDGs); quality education (SDGs 4) and partnership for the goals (SDGs 17).

The 6th International Summer Course on Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development concluded remarkably on August 11, 2023, with an entertaining and touching closing ceremony. The event took place in Jatimulyo, Kulon Progo.

Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App., Sc., and committee chair Nur Indah Septriani, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., both shared reflections on the importance of this event and the collective efforts made towards a more sustainable future.

Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, known for his environmental conservation work, expressed gratitude for the dedication and enthusiasm of the participants. He emphasized that the course not only enriched academic knowledge but also built a global network of individuals committed to addressing the challenges of biodiversity loss and sustainable development.

Committee Chair Nur Indah Septriani added that the event had been an incredible journey of learning, collaboration, and cultural exchange. The participants have shown extraordinary dedication to addressing pressing environmental issues, and we are excited to see the impact they will make in their respective fields.

The ceremony featured a captivating traditional dance performance showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region, highlighting the connection between nature and human tradition. Laughter was added to the evening with humorous interpretations.

The evening also marked the announcement of award recipients, including the funniest, most enthusiastic, most local, friendliest, and best food eater participants. Applause and cheers filled the air as the award recipients were celebrated, adding to the excitement of the night.

As the event concluded, it was evident that the participants were deeply moved, inspired, and motivated to continue their efforts towards a more sustainable planet rich in biodiversity.

On August 11, 2023, participants of the 6th International Summer Course on Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development explored Jatimulyo, Kulonprogo to unravel the mysteries of biodiversity through insect sampling, bird observation, and sharing sessions on community-based coffee, milk, and honey production. This event underscored the importance of community empowerment in sustainable practices.

One highlight of the program was the firsthand experience in capturing insects and observing birds. Participants had the opportunity to explore the local flora and fauna.

Participants were also invited to witness community-based coffee, milk, and honey production. By actively involving the local community, this course emphasized the significance of sustainable practices that benefit both the environment and the community. Participants not only learned about these processes but also actively contributed, enhancing their appreciation for the symbiotic relationship between humans and their natural environment.

An equally captivating aspect of the program was the lecture delivered by Dr. Eleanor Slade, a leading expert in Insect Conservation. Dr. Eleanor shared her expertise and insights, delving into the crucial role of insects in maintaining ecological balance and the challenges they face in a rapidly changing world. Her thought-provoking lecture highlighted the urgency of conservation and inspired participants to become advocates for insect protection.

The immersive experience in Jatimulyo served as a catalyst for sustainable practices and community empowerment, driving the mission to preserve tropical biodiversity for future generations.

As a follow-up to the collaboration that has been established, on Friday, 11 August 2023 representatives from the Faculty of Biology visited the Mount Merbabu National Park Office in Banyuroto, Boyolali, Central Java. The visit was attended by The Officials Temporary Replacement (Plt.) Head of Mount Merbabu National Park, Nurpana Sulaksono, S.Hut., M.T., Forest Ecosystem Controller (PEH) of Mount Merbabu National Park, Kristina Dewi, S.Si., M.Sc., M.Eng., and Head of the Mount Merbabu National Park Regional Section, Chomsatun, S.Hut, M.T. Meanwhile, representatives from the Faculty of Biology are Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc. as Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration, and Alumni Affairs, Abdul Razaq Chasani, S.Si., M.Si., Ph.D. and Prof. Dr. Ratna Susandarini, M.Sc. from the Animal Systematics Laboratory, Donan Satria Yudha, S.Si., M.Sc. from the Animal Systematics Laboratory, and Dr. Miftahul Ilmi, M.Sc. from the Microbiology Laboratory as well as Editor-in-Chief Journal Tropical Biodiversity and Biotechnology (JTBB), Faculty of Biology UGM.

The visit was welcomed by Officials Temporary Replacement (Plt.) Head of Mount Merbabu National Park, Nurpana Sulaksono, S.Hut., M.T. who expressed his appreciation for the arrival of representatives from the Faculty of Biology. Collaboration between the Faculty of Biology and Mount Merbabu National Park has been established since 2021 and has been realized in various activities including Seminar on Biodiversity of Mount Merbabu National Park, Student Internship and Research, Plant Taxonomy Workshop, Alien and Native Species Workshop, Saninten Conservation Study, also Insect Research. Mr. Nurpana also conveyed about increasing collaborations that is more specific in terms of the scope of cooperation as well as increasing the potential for publication and Intellectual Property Rights.

Dr. Eko as Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration, and Alumni Affairs revealed the purpose of the Faculty of Biology representative’s visit to follow up on the collaboration and the annual work plan to be carried out in 2023. The realization and follow-up of the collaboration that has been designed and partially implemented has become the main topic of discussion.

In accordance with the Annual Work Plan that has been prepared, in 2023 the Faculty of Biology and Mount Merbabu National Park plan to carry out collaborations in the form of Workshop on Animal Taxonomy, especially Aves and Mammalia, In House Training for Publication Writing Techniques, In House Training on Herbarium and Taxidermy, In House Training on Basic Bioinformatics for Plants and Animals, In House Training on Ecological Data Analysis, Herpetofauna Research, collaboration on Selaginella sp. and Centella asiatica bioprospection studies., collaboration in writing the book of Plant Interpretation of the Climbing Path, also collaboration in writing and journal publication. In the collaboration plan, publication writing also collaborates with journals managed by the Faculty of Biology, the National Journal Berkala Ilmiah Biologi (BIB) and the International Journal of the Journal of Tropical Biodiversity and Biotechnology (JTBB). These activities are planned to be carried out in mid to late 2023.

The visit is expected to be a great step in increasing the implementation of collaboration between the Faculty of Biology UGM and the Mount Merbabu National Park.

The 6th International Summer Course on Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development held an exciting intertidal sampling event at Pantai Porok on August 10, 2023. The event commenced at 06:00 AM WIB, bringing together enthusiastic participants from around the world to engage in hands-on scientific research while experiencing the beauty of Indonesia’s coastal ecosystems.

Organized by the Faculty of Biology at Gadjah Mada University (UGM), this Summer Course aims to provide an immersive learning experience for young researchers, students, and enthusiasts interested in tropical biodiversity and sustainable development. This year’s program has attracted more than 60 participants from diverse backgrounds, fostering cross-cultural collaboration and knowledge exchange among various institutions, including UGM, UTHM, UTAR, UPLB, NTU, Chiba University, and Kasetsart University.

The intertidal sampling activity took center stage in this course, enabling participants to explore the unique ecosystem of Pantai Porok. Guided by experienced marine biologists and researchers, the participants collected samples and conducted field observations to understand the intricate balance of marine life that thrives in the intertidal zone. This hands-on experience not only exposed the participants to various species of marine flora and fauna but also emphasized the importance of preserving these delicate ecosystems for future generations.

This event is more than just a scientific endeavor; it’s a fusion of educational activities and recreation. The day prior to the sampling event, participants engaged in interactive games designed to foster teamwork and problem-solving skills. These games not only added an element of enjoyment to the course but also provided an opportunity for participants to forge new friendships and connections among the institutions represented.

The 6th International Summer Course on Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development will continue with a series of engaging workshops, lectures, and field trips. The active participation of the attendees and their enthusiasm for learning underscore the success of the course in promoting awareness and understanding of the delicate balance between biodiversity and sustainable development.

On August 9, 2023, participants of the 6th International Summer Course on Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development visited Candi Sojiwan. The event was guided by the esteemed Dr. Zuliyati Rohmah, S.Si., M.Si., Ph.D. Eng., and also involved representatives from the Cultural Preservation Center of Region X, namely Tisa Putri Sekararum, Destiana Murtiyani, and Wildan Amanatul Awal.

Dr. Zuliyati Rohmah, an expert in this field, shared her extensive knowledge and insights. She narrated reliefs depicting the fusion of biodiversity and local ancestral culture.

This International Summer Course serves as evidence of the growing global commitment to the harmonious coexistence of biodiversity and sustainable development. The success of this event is a result of the dedication of participants from 10 countries, including institutions like UGM, UTAR, UTHM, Chiba University, NTU, UPLB, and Kasetsart University, Thailand, as well as the organizers.