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.

n Tuesday, 8 August 2023, Renowned experts gathered to share their expertise on crucial topics related to biodiversity and sustainable development. The event began with a lecture by Dr. Furzani from Universitas Tunn Hussein in Malaysia (UTHM), where he delved into the significance of Ethnobotany in Conservation. The session was moderated by Ibu Wahyu Aristyaning Putri, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., who skillfully facilitated discussions and interactions among participants.

Dr. Muhammad Abdul Lattif Abu Bakar from UTHM delivered the second lecture, sharing valuable insights into the role of Important Wildlife for Sustainable Development. This insightful presentation was moderated by Dr. Dwi Sendi Priyono, S.Si., M.Si., who ensured a dynamic exchange of ideas among participants.

The program continued with a third lecture by Dr. Nor Ismaliza Bint. Mohd Ismail from Universiti Tun Abdul Rahman (UTAR). Dr. Nor’s discussion on Marine Product Potential for Sustainable Development shed light on the vital role oceans play in our sustainable future. Guided by the expertise of Dr. Ganies Riza Aristya, S.Si., M.Sc., the lecture was followed by enriching discussions.

In the fourth and final session of the day, participants had the privilege of learning from Assoc. Prof. Alona Cuevas Linatoc. Her exploration of Medicinal Plants for Sustainable Development underscored the crucial relationship between nature and human well-being. Dr. Tyas Ikhsan, M.Sc., skillfully moderated the session, facilitating a stimulating dialogue among attendees.

This prestigious event marked a significant milestone in advancing knowledge and fostering collaboration in the fields of tropical biodiversity and sustainable development. Participants left the event inspired and equipped with fresh perspectives to drive positive change in their respective domains.

The 6th International Summer Course on Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development offline began on August 7, 2023. On the first day, participants were taken on an enchanting cultural tour to delve into the history of Yogyakarta.

After the opening ceremony, participants were directed to enjoy a cultural adventure showcasing the unmatched charm of Yogyakarta.

Their first destination was the renowned Taman Sari, a place steeped in history as the bathing area for the wives of the royal Sultan Hamengkubuwono. This iconic landmark has transformed into a historical treasure. Participants were captivated by the stories and legends surrounding Taman Sari as they walked through its corridors and spaces.

Continuing their exploration, participants embarked on a journey to the bustling Malioboro street. The vibrant energy and cultural significance of Malioboro provided an intriguing backdrop for participants to immerse themselves in the local way of life. Equally exciting was when a group of enthusiastic participants took part in a cracker-eating competition, in preparation for Indonesia’s upcoming Independence Day celebrations on August 17.

This full day of events, filled with cultural exploration and experiences, offered a unique opportunity for participants to discover the historical and cultural gems Yogyakarta has to offer. This summer course not only focuses on biodiversity and sustainable development, but also acknowledges the importance of understanding the roots and heritage of the region.

Participants eagerly anticipate the promised further engagement to deepen their appreciation for Yogyakarta’s rich history, vibrant culture, and natural beauty.

Wednesday, 9 August 2023, a research discussion was held between the Research Center of Food Biotechnology at Bina Nusantara University (BINUS) and lecturers from Faculty of Biology UGM. The discussion was attended by Dr. Nesti F. Sianipar, S.P., M.Si. as Head of Research Center of Food Biotechnology BINUS and Khoirunnisa Assidqi, S.Pi., M.Si. as a lecturer from the Research Center of Food Biotechnology BINUS. From the Faculty of Biology attended by the Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaborations, and Alumni Affairs, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., Prof. Dr. Endang Semiarti, M.S., M.Sc. from the Biotechnology Laboratory, Dra. Tuty Arisuryanti, M.Sc., Ph.D. and Dr. Niken Satuti Nur Handayani, M.Sc. from the Laboratory of Genetics and Breeding, and Prof. Dr. Kumala Dewi, M.Sc.St. from the Plant Physiology Laboratory.

During the discussion, Dr. Nesti presented ongoing research projects for the last 10 years at the BINUS Research Center of Food Biotechnology. The research focuses on the development of Keladi Tikus as a functional food and its development into a cancer prevention product. Dr. Nesti also conveyed a road map of research that has been and will be carried out related to the project. In addition, she also conveyed the TORPEDO Banana development project, Pisang Tanduk with genetic mutations to increase their morphology size without reducing or changing the quality of these bananas. Dr. Nesti also expressed his hopes regarding the potential for research collaboration with expert lecturers at the Faculty of Biology including further education collaboration for young lecturers at BINUS to the Faculty of Biology through a by research scheme.

Dr. Eko welcomed the potential for research collaboration as well as the potential for research collaboration with students of the Faculty of Biology UGM at the Bachelor, Masters and Doctoral levels. The potential for this collaboration can be supported by expert lecturers from the Faculty of Biology including Prof. Endang with his research focusing on genetic engineering and genome editing, Dra. Tuty Arisuryanti, Ph.D. with research focusing on population diversity as well as bioinformatics, Dr. Niken with research focusing on human genetics, especially thalassemia and Prof. Kumala who is an expert in Plant Physiology, as well as Dr. Eko with microalgae research.

The potential for collaboration to obtain funding support and human resources support is very possible. Dr. Nesti appreciates the support from the Faculty of Biology UGM and hopes that the collaboration can be realized and implemented to improve the quality of research in the future and to benefit both the Research Center of Food Biotechnology and the Faculty of Biology UGM.

Tuesday, 8 August 2023, Faculty of Biology UGM received a visit from the Research Center of Food Biotechnology, Bina Nusantara University (BINUS). The visit was received at the KPTU Meeting Room of the Faculty of Biology and was attended by Dr. Nesti F. Sianipar, S.P., M.Si. as Head of Research Center of Food Biotechnology BINUS and Khoirunnisa Assidqi, S.Pi., M.Si. as a lecturer from the Research Center of Food Biotechnology. From Faculty of Biology attended by the Dean of the Faculty of Biology, Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration and Alumni Affairs, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., Vice Dean of Finance, Assets and Human Resources, Dr. Slamet Widiyanto, M.Sc., and Abdul Razaq Chasani, S.Si., M.Si., Ph.D. as Head of the Department of Tropical Biology.

The visit was aimed at benchmarking from the Research Center of Food Biotechnology BINUS to the Faculty of Biology UGM regarding collaborative research projects and comparative studies related to learning activities at the Faculty of Biology UGM. Prof. Budi as the Dean of the Faculty of Biology welcomed the visit of Dr. Nesti and Mrs. Khoirunnisa as well as supported the establishment of this collaboration. Furthermore, Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration, and Alumni Affairs, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., explained the profile, history, facilities, and focus of teaching education at the Faculty of Biology UGM. Dr. Eko also conveyed the potential for joint research collaboration and joint publications that could be implemented. He also conveyed journals managed by the Faculty of Biology including the Journal of Tropical Biodiversity and Biotechnology which is an international journal indexed by Scopus Q4 as well as a national journal Berkala Ilmiah Biologi (BIB).

Dr. Nesti conveyed the profile of the establishment of the BINUS Research Center of Food Biotechnology which was rooted in the Research Interest Group with a focus on developing research on Keladi Tikus plants to mutated banana named Banana TORPEDO. Dr. Nesti also conveyed the formation of a new study program, namely Biotechnology at BINUS and the desire to develop collaborations with various partners including the Faculty of Biology UGM. This collaboration can be in the form of research collaboration to education. Besides, Dr. Nesti also appreciates the further study collaboration between young lecturers at BINUS with the Faculty of Biology UGM through the by research scheme. This is considered to be able to support the improvement of the quality of teaching staff at BINUS without leaving their teaching duties on campus.

The visit was followed by a tour around the facilities and laboratories at the Faculty of Biology including the Laboratory of Microbiology, Animal Development Structures, Plant Development Structures, Plant Systematics, Animal Systematics, Plant Physiology, Animal Physiology, Biochemistry, Entomology, Genetics and Breeding, and Biotechnology also visit the Biology Garden of Faculty of Biology. The visit was welcomed by each Laboratory Head who explained about the facilities and activities that took place in the Laboratory at the Faculty of Biology.

It is hoped that the meeting will be a good opportunity to collaborate with Bina Nusantara University, especially the Research Center of Food Biotechnology with Faculty of Biology UGM.

Tuesday, 8 August 2023, Faculty of Biology UGM received a visit from the Faculty of Science and Technology Universitas Terbuka (UT). The visit was received in the Senate Room of the Faculty of Biology and was attended by Dr. Elizabeth Novi Kusumaningrum, S.Si., M.Sc. as Head of Biology Study Program, Faculty of Science and Technology UT and Heny Kurniawati, S.ST., M.Kes. as a Lecturer in the Faculty of Science and Technology UT. From the Faculty of Biology attended by Sukirno, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D. as the Head of the Faculty of Biology’s Undergraduate Study Program.

The visit was aimed as a benchmarking for establishing a Laboratory Center at the Faculty of Science and Technology, Universitas Terbuka. Sukirno, S.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D as the Head of the Faculty of Biology Undergraduate Study Program welcomed the visit and supported further collaborations. He also explained the profile, history, facilities, and focus of teaching education at the Faculty of Biology UGM. He conveyed collaboration and cooperation that could be initiated in the future with Universitas Terbuka.

Dr. Elizabeth conveyed the profile of the Open University, especially the Faculty of Science and Technology, especially the Biology Study Program, while also conveying her wish for a comparative study regarding plans to establish a Laboratory Center at Universitas Terbuka. Dr. Elizabeth expressed her hope for the potential for collaboration with the Faculty of Biology UGM.

The visit was followed by a tour around the facilities and laboratories at the Faculty of Biology including the Laboratory of Plant Development Structure, Plant Systematics, Plant Physiology, Biological Gardens also visiting organic waste management activities at the Faculty of Biology. During the tour, the delegations received presentation on the facilities and activities that took place in the Laboratory at Faculty of Biology and other supporting facilities for teaching and learning activities.

The meeting is a great opportunity to collaborate with the Faculty of Science and Technology at Universitas Terbuka with the Faculty of Biology UGM and especially in planning to develop an integrated laboratory at Universitas Terbuka.

Yogyakarta, Indonesia — The prestigious Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) marked a significant milestone today with the grand opening of the 6th Summer Course on Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development. The ceremony, held on August 7th, 2023, witnessed an assembly of distinguished guests, scholars, and students from around the world who have gathered to delve into the realms of biodiversity and sustainable development.

The ceremony commenced with an official inauguration by Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr., Sc., Dean of the Faculty of Biology at UGM. Prof. Budi’s address emphasized the vital role of education in the conservation of tropical biodiversity and the pursuit of sustainable development goals. Nur Indah Septriani, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., Chairwoman of the event, presented a succinct report detailing the objectives and expectations of the course.

The event was graced by the presence of esteemed guests, including:

Ibu Wiratni, S.T., M.T., Ph.D., Secretary of the Directorate of Alumni Partnership and International Affairs
Dr. Slamet Widiyanto, M.Sc., Vice Dean of Finance, Assets, and Human Resources
Dr. Bambang Retnoaji, M.Sc., Vice Dean of Academic and Student Affairs
Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., Vice Dean for Research Community Service, Cooperation, and Alumni of the Faculty of Biology, UGM
The course welcomed a diverse cohort of 72 students from various corners of the globe, representing Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines, Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, Tunisia, and Sri Lanka. These students are drawn from prestigious institutions such as UGM, UTAR, UTHM, NTU, Chiba University, UPLB, and Kasetsart University, reflecting the event’s international stature.

Ibu Wiratni, S.T., M.T., Ph.D. also delivered the opening remarks during the ceremony. She emphasized the importance of the Summer Course as a platform for collaboration and knowledge exchange among students and academics from diverse backgrounds.

The highlight of the ceremony was the engaging lecture session on “Landscape Dynamics in a Changing World.” The keynote speaker, Prof. Dr. Tjut Sugandawaty Djohan, a recognized expert in the field, captivated the audience with her insights into the intricate relationships between landscapes and environmental changes. The session was moderated by Ibu Rina Sri Kasiamdari, S.Si., Ph.D., who skillfully facilitated the exchange of ideas and perspectives.

The 6th Summer Course on Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development promises to be an immersive experience that transcends boundaries and fosters the sharing of knowledge and expertise. With an array of renowned speakers and experts, the course aims to empower participants to address the challenges posed by a rapidly evolving world and to devise sustainable solutions for the future.

On Thursday, 3 August 2023, Faculty of Biology received a visit from the Biology Study Program, Universitas Islam Negeri (UIN) Raden Fatah, Palembang. The visit which took place at the Animal Systematics Laboratory Faculty of Biology, was attended by 31 students and Tito Nurseha, M.Si as a lecturer from UIN Raden Fatah Palembang while from the Faculty of Biology was attended by Dr. Dwi Sendi Priyono, S.Si., M.Si., and Donan Satria Yudha, S.Si., M.Sc. from the Animal Systematics Laboratory.

The visit began with remarks by Tito Nurseha, M.Si as a lecturer from UIN Raden Fatah Palembang. He said that the visit was aimed at improving academic quality, especially in the Biology Study Program, UIN Raden Fatah Palembang. Students are expected to be able to absorb information and learning delivered during visits to the Animal Systematics Laboratory, Faculty of Biology. Besides that, the visit also specifically wanted to find out how the taxidermy process was taking place at the Animal Systematics Laboratory.

Furthermore, remarks as well as material delivered by Dr. Dwi Sendi Priyono, S.Si., M.Si. Dr. Sendi conveyed the profile of the Faculty of Biology, facilities also introduction of the Animal Systematics Laboratory in particular. He conveyed about the courses taught by the Animal Systematics Laboratory lecturers as well as what research was taking place and had been carried out. Dr. Sendi also explained the role of DNA forensics for wildlife identification in collaboration with the police and various related institutions.

The event then continued with an explanation regarding animal taxidermy by Donan Satria Yudha, S.Si., M.Sc. He explained about the taxidermy method, stages, permits and things that need to be considered in taxidermy work. This explanation is also accompanied by taxidermy specimens in the Animal Systematics Laboratory collection so that students can receive material interactively.

The visit ended with a small tour around the Animal Systematics Laboratory to observe the specimen collections. UIN Raden Fatah expressed appreciation for the material presented during the visit and hoped that the visit could strengthen the relationship between the Faculty of Biology UGM and UIN Raden Fatah Palembang.

On Tuesday, 1 August 2023, Faculty of Biology discussed the initiation of collaboration and plans to open a Double Degree program with the School of Biological Sciences, The University of Western Australia. The online discussion was attended by Onna Evdokimoff as Global Engagement Manager from The University of Western Australia, while from the Faculty of Biology represented by Dr. Bambang Retnoaji, M.Sc. as Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc. as Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Cooperation, and Alumni Affairs, Sukirno, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D. as Head of Undergraduate Study Program, Dr.rer.nat. Andhika Puspito Nugroho, S.Si., M.Sc. as the Head of the Masters Study Program, Dr. Endah Retnaningrum, M.Eng. as the Head of the Doctoral Study Program, as well as Tyas Ikhsan Hikmawan, M.Sc., Ph.D. and Nur Indah Septriani, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D. from the Office of International Affairs, Faculty of Biology UGM.

Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Cooperation, and Alumni Affairs, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc. presented a presentation on the profile of the Faculty of Biology. He conveyed history, achievements and facilities at the Faculty of Biology UGM. The Faculty of Biology has also obtained international accreditation for the Undergraduate and Masters programs and is targeted to immediately obtain international accreditation for the Doctoral program. Dr. Eko also said that the Faculty of Biology had established international cooperation with 37 universities in 15 countries and had collaborated on the Double Degree program with more than 10 universities, including the currently running Double Degree program with Australia National University (ANU) which was attended by 2 students from the Faculty of Biology. The initiation of the Double Degree program with The University of Western Australia is also an effort by the Faculty of Biology to expand the network and learning opportunities for its students.

Onna Evdokimoff as Global Engagement Manager from The University of Western Australia expressed her appreciation and interest in the double degree collaboration plan. She said that the potential for cooperation is very likely to be carried out both in the Bachelor, Masters and Doctoral levels, although the Double Degree Doctoral Program requires further collaboration discussions. Onna also welcomed the potential for scholarships that could be offered by the Government of Indonesia through the LPDP scheme which could be taken for the Double Degree program starting in 2022. Onna also conveyed the potential for the Double Degree program as well as the Fast Track (Combined Bachelor and Master) offered by the School of Biological Science, The University of Western Australia, especially in the fields of Biological Science, Biotechnology, Environmental Science, and Marine Biology.

The collaboration in the Double Degree program is a concrete step by Faculty of Biology UGM in implementing its commitment to building international networks that are useful in improving the quality of research and academics with its global partners. It is hoped that the double degree program with The University of Western Australia can be realized immediately to provide wider learning opportunities for students of the Faculty of Biology UGM.

Yogyakarta, Indonesia – July 31, 2023

The Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) continued to foster knowledge exchange and exploration of cutting-edge topics by successfully hosting the fourth lecture series as part of the 6th International Summer Course on Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development. The virtual event, held on Monday, July 31, 2023, proved to be an enriching experience for the 52 online participants in attendance.

This fourth lecture series revolved around the theme Sustainability and Bioprospecting of Microalgae featuring two distinguished speakers who illuminated the audience with their expertise and insights. In the first session, Dr. Yoshimasa Amano from Chiba University shared his groundbreaking research on “Control of Microcystis Buoyancy Using Colony Formation.” Dr. Amano’s presentation shed light on the fascinating mechanisms behind microcystis colony formation and its implications for controlling harmful algal blooms, which pose challenges to aquatic ecosystems worldwide.
The second session was delivered by Mr. Enrico Guanino from Euglena Company, Japan, who presented on the revolutionary topic of “Microalgae Biorefinery for Sustainable Development.” Mr. Enrico Guanino’s talk delved into the promising potential of microalgae as a sustainable resource for biorefinery applications. Participants were enlightened about the ecological benefits of microalgae cultivation, and its versatile applications in producing valuable bio-based products that contribute to sustainable development.

The session was expertly moderated by Tia Erfiyanti, a PMDSU student at the Faculty of Biology, UGM. Tia’s adept moderation enriched the discussions and provided valuable context to the audience.

“We are delighted to witness the remarkable engagement in the fourth lecture series of our 6th International Summer Course on Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development,” said Dr. Nur Indah Septriani, The Chairwoman of the Summer Course. “The topics of microalgae biorefinery and microcystis buoyancy control are of immense importance in the pursuit of sustainable development. Our heartfelt gratitude goes to Mr. Enrico Guanino and Dr. Yoshimasa Amano for sharing their expertise and valuable insights, as well as to all the participants for their active involvement.”

The 6th International Summer Course on Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development continues to provide a platform for global collaboration and knowledge dissemination, fostering innovative solutions to address pressing environmental challenges.