Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, responded to the waste emergency situation in Yogyakarta following the closure of the Piyungan Final Disposal Site (TPA), which has been the main landfill for final disposal in the Yogyakarta Province (DIY) area. Based on a circular letter from the Regional Secretariat of the DIY Government, the Piyungan Regional TPA will no longer receive waste services as of July 23, 2023 to September 5, 2023 due to the fact that the amount of waste is full and exceeds capacity. Universitas Gadjah Mada through the Faculty of Biology and the Faculty of Dentistry responded by following up on waste management at UGM internally where the coordination of organic waste management is carried out by the Faculty of Biology while the coordination of inorganic waste management is carried out by the Faculty of Dentistry.

As of Thursday, 27 July 2023, Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM, Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., has coordinated with the Chancellor of Universitas Gadjah Mada, Prof. dr. Ova Emilia, M.Med.Ed., Sp.OG(K)., Ph.D., and Director of DPKM (Directorate of Community Service) Universitas Gadjah Mada, Dr. dr. Rustamaji, M. Kes. It has been agreed that the Faculty of Biology will manage internal organic waste from Universitas Gadjah Mada in the form of leaf and twig litter. The collection of organic waste will be coordinated at each unit point in all UGM areas to be enumerated first and then sent and managed by the Faculty of Biology to become organic compost. Meanwhile, organic waste in the form of food scraps, fruit and vegetables will be managed by the UGM Argotechnology Innovation Center (PIAT).

The management of leaf litter and twigs in the Faculty of Biology has been going on for a long time in the Biology Garden Area, Faculty of Biology. The chopped organic waste will be processed into compost and then supplied to consumers in collaboration with PT. Pagilaran. The establishment of the Waste Management Center as a response to the closure of the Piyungan TPA will then be coordinated with Soenarwan Heri Purwanto, S.Si., M.Kes. and the waste management team from the Faculty of Biology.

This waste management initiative is a form of commitment from the Faculty of Biology UGM to contribute to the sustainability environment, especially in UGM’s internal environment. It is hoped that this management program will be useful in the long-term settlement of internal waste at UGM in particular and in the Special Region of Yogyakarta (DIY) in general.

Yogyakarta, July 27, 2023 – The ASRI Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to planetary health in Kalimantan Barat, visited the Faculty of Biology, Gadjah Mada University (UGM), to hold an audience discussing potential collaborations in environmental conservation and community health enhancement. The event took place on Thursday, July 27, 2023, at the KPTU Meeting Room, Faculty of Biology, UGM.

As a pioneer in its field, the ASRI Foundation envisions a healthy, prosperous society and sustainable environment by integrating healthcare services with the conservation of high conservation value forests. Since its establishment in 2007, ASRI has actively supported the government’s efforts in preserving forests in Kalimantan Barat and has inspired the world with its conservation-based healthcare approach.

The ASRI Foundation’s flagship programs span across three main areas:

1. Healthcare: The healthcare sector’s highlight is the ASRI Clinic, a unique initiative and possibly the only one in Indonesia that accepts seedlings as payment. The clinic also provides mobile healthcare services, tuberculosis control, and eyeglasses access for the community. ASRI aims to promote public health while reinforcing forest conservation through this innovative approach.
2. Conservation: ASRI actively engages in forest conservation programs, including reforestation, deforestation monitoring, supporting forest-friendly livelihoods (sahabat hutan), promoting organic farming, implementing chainsaw buyback initiatives, and providing special support for widows involved in environmental conservation efforts.
3. Education: The ASRI Foundation actively educates the community, particularly through extracurricular activities such as ASRI Kids and ASRI Teens, conducting environmental awareness programs, study tours, Planetary Health Talks, and Planetary Health Camps.

The audience was held to discuss the Draft Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the ASRI Foundation and the Faculty of Biology, Gadjah Mada University (UGM). The collaboration aims to strengthen the aspects of the Higher Education Tri Dharma, encompassing education, research, and community service, with a focus on environmental conservation and planetary health enhancement.

The delegation from the ASRI Foundation, led by Evita Izza Dwiyanti, S.T., M.Si., the Partnership Manager, was warmly welcomed by Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., the Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration, and Alumni, as well as Dr. Dwi Sendi Priyono, S.Si., M.Si., the Director of the Center for Tropical Biodiversity, Faculty of Biology, UGM.

The event began with an introduction to the Faculty of Biology, UGM, followed by an intensive discussion on the implementation of collaborative activities as outlined in the MoU.

The collaboration between the ASRI Foundation and the Faculty of Biology, UGM, is expected to be a milestone in advancing planetary health and environmental conservation. With strong synergy, both organizations are committed to jointly creating a healthier and more sustainable society and environment for future generations.

The Faculty of Biology held a Public Lecture with the theme “Biodiversity Prospect, Research, and Management” on Thursday, 27 July 2023. The lecture was delivered by Prof. Kornsorn Srikulnath, Ph.D from Kasetsart University, Thailand. The Lecture was attended by students from the Masters, Doctoral Study Programs and also lecturers from the Faculty of Biology, which was held at RSA, Building A, Faculty of Biology UGM.

The event was hosted by Wildan Alfian Fahmi, S.Si, and officially opened by Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc. Dean of the Faculty of Biology. The Dean addressed that the public lecture is one of academic collaboration implementation in order to strengthen among university bonding, especially with Kasetrat University. Prof. Kornsorn is an expert in the field of animal development, animal conservation and genetics. He is a visiting professor at the Faculty of Biology UGM, who is currently partnering with Dr. Bambang Retnoaji, M.Sc.

Prof. Kornsorn delivered the lecture topic mainly on “Animal Genomic and Bioresource Research Unit (AGB Research Unit)”, especially regarding to the research examples that had been conducted at Kasetart University, especially by the AGB Research Unit including activities of wildlife conservation research, agriculture genomics, AGB Collaboration research. The main research objects include bison (genetic monitoring), chickens (increasing gene varieties), fish, and crocodiles (determination of crocodile hybrids, as well as comparing the morphology of the Siamese with Saltwater Crocodiles).

The last session of the lecture was question and answer. The session was led by Anita Rahajeng, M.Si, M.Bio.Med.Sc., as a moderator. Students were very enthusiastic to contribute and were given opportunity to raised questions as well as to share their opinion on the lecture topic. Some important questions were recorded such as the topic about the contribution of students in the field of health and biodiversity, research related to genomics and biodiversity to the discovery of new species. It is hoped that this public lecture can strengthen collaboration between the Faculty of Biology UGM and Kasetsart University Thailand.

As a continuation of the implementation of the Assessment for Professional Biodiversity Curator Certification, which was held on May 11, 2023, the Faculty of Biology UGM conducted the second Certification Assessment for the field of Microbial Diversity on July 25, 2023. This activity was conducted as one of the preparation steps for the establishment of a new study program, namely the Biodiversity Curator Education Study Program.

Five faculty members from the Microbiology Laboratory of the Faculty of Biology UGM were assessed through the Portfolio/Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) scheme. They are Dr. rer. nat. Abdul Rahman Siregar, S.Si., M.Biotech., Dr. Endah Retnaningrum, S.Si., M.Eng., Dr. Miftahul Ilmi, S.Si., M.Si., Sari Darmasiwi, S.Si., M.Biotech., Ph.D., and Dr. Aprilia Sufi Subiastuti, S.Si.

This assessment was conducted by Ahmed Abd El-Wahed, BVSc, MVSc, Ph.D., and Prof. Dr. med. vet. Uwe Truyen, Microbiology expert from The Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health, University of Leipzig, Germany. During the implementation, they were accompanied by Dr. Bambang Retnoaji, M.Sc., as the Vice Dean of Academic and Student Affairs, and Rina Sri Kasiamdari, S.Si., Ph.D., as the Head of the Biodiversity Curator Education Study Program.

Based on the portfolio presentation and discussions held, all five participants were declared successful and received the professional certification for microbial diversity curators. The certificate handover was conducted by both assessors to the five participants, accompanied by the Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM, Prof. Dr. Budi S. Daryono, M.Agr.Sc, along with the Deputy Dean of Academic and Student Affairs, and the Deputy Dean of Research, Community Service, Cooperation, and Alumni. It is hoped that the implementation of this certification test will support the establishment process of the Biodiversity Curator Professional Education Study Program at the UGM Faculty of Biology, with competent and internationally certified lecturers.

Yogyakarta, Indonesia – July 26, 2023

The Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) successfully hosted the third lecture series as part of the 6th International Summer Course on Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development. The highly anticipated virtual event took place on Wednesday, July 26, 2023. The lecture series, centered around the theme of “Bioprospecting & Biotechnology Business,” featured esteemed speaker Max Van ‘t Hof, Ph.D., a Venture Development Associate at Nordic BioVentures.

This installment of the lecture series witnessed an enthusiastic gathering of 47 online participants from various corners of the globe, all eager to explore the critical domains of bioprospecting and biotechnology business, both of which play pivotal roles in the sustainable development of tropical biodiversity.

The engaging session commenced with an interactive icebreaker, powered by Mentimeter, to foster a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere for all attendees. Following the introduction, Max Van ‘t Hof shared insights into his groundbreaking work and experiences in the field.

The first hour of the lecture delved into the captivating world of bioprospecting, where attendees were enlightened about the exploration of biodiversity-rich regions for valuable biological resources, addressing the challenges and ethical considerations surrounding this practice.

In the subsequent hour, the focus shifted to biotechnology business. Max Van ‘t Hof captivated the audience with his in-depth knowledge of venture development in the biotechnology sector. Attendees gained valuable insights into the commercial aspects of biotechnology, the opportunities it presents, and its role in fostering sustainable practices.

The lecture series was skillfully moderated by Matin Nuhamunada, a dedicated teaching staff member at the Faculty of Biology, UGM. Matin’s insightful inquiries and thoughtful moderation added depth and context to the discussions.

“We are thrilled to have hosted the third lecture series of our 6th International Summer Course on Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development,” said Dr. Nur Indah Septriani, Chairwoman of the Summer Course. “The topics of bioprospecting and biotechnology business are of utmost importance in today’s world, where the preservation of biodiversity and sustainable development are paramount. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Max Van ‘t Hof for sharing his expertise, and to all the participants who made this virtual event a grand success.”

The 6th International Summer Course on Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development continues to inspire and enlighten participants, bridging the gap between academia and real-world applications in safeguarding our planet’s precious resources.

Yogyakarta, Indonesia – July 25, 2023: The Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) continues to drive environmental awareness and global cooperation through the highly anticipated 6th International Summer Course on Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development. In a seamless transition to virtual engagement, the second lecture series delved into the theme “Making Chemistry More Sustainable,” captivating a diverse audience of environmental enthusiasts, scholars, and researchers.

Hosted by the Faculty of Biology, UGM, the virtual lecture took place on Tuesday, July 25, 2023, providing a unique opportunity for attendees to explore groundbreaking approaches to sustainability within the realm of chemistry.

The esteemed speakers for this enriching session were Professor Sir Martyn Poliakoff CBE FRS FREng and Professor Michael W George, both from Nottingham University. Professor Sir Martyn Poliakoff is an eminent figure whose academic journey began at King’s College, Cambridge, where he obtained his B.A. in 1969 and Ph.D. in 1973. He pursued his research on the Matrix Isolation of Large Molecules. In 1972, he was appointed as a Research/Senior Research Officer in the Department of Inorganic Chemistry at the University of Newcastle upon Tyne. His expertise and contributions have significantly influenced the field of chemistry.

Professor Michael W George, another esteemed speaker, completed his B.Sc. and Ph.D. at the University of Nottingham in 1987 and 1990, respectively. Currently serving as the Deputy Head of School, he was previously the Vice-Provost Research & Knowledge Exchange at the University of Nottingham Ningbo China (2014-16). His pioneering research has been instrumental in advancing sustainable practices in chemistry.

The engaging session was skillfully moderated by Dr. Miftahul Ilmi from the Faculty of Biology, UGM, who ensured an insightful exchange of ideas and perspectives among the speakers and participants.

The second lecture series attracted a diverse and enthusiastic audience of 52 online participants, comprising students, academics, and professionals passionate about fostering sustainability in the field of chemistry.

The 6th International Summer Course on Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development remains committed to providing a platform for cutting-edge discussions, knowledge-sharing, and global collaboration. Participants from various corners of the world can engage virtually, breaking down geographical barriers and strengthening the global network of sustainability advocates.

As the course progresses, participants eagerly anticipate more enriching lecture series, workshops, and interactive sessions, reinforcing the Faculty of Biology, UGM’s dedication to promoting sustainable practices and biodiversity conservation.

On Tuesday, 25 July 2023, Faculty of Biology UGM held Public Lectures and Training activities with speakers Dr. Ahmed Abd El Wahed and Prof. Uwe Truyen of The Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health, University of Leipzig, Germany. The activity was held in the Upper Meeting Room, Building A Floor 3, Faculty of Biology and was attended by participants from students to lecturers from the Faculty of Biology UGM.

The event began with an opening by the moderator, Tyas Ikhsan Hikmawan, M.Sc., Ph.D. Prof. Uwe Truyen then started the presentation. He explained the profile of University of Leipzig in general and their curriculum offered, especially at the Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health. Prof. Truyen also outlined various ongoing collaborative research projects in collaboration with researchers around the world.

Dr. Ahmed then gave a public lecture entitled “Coming Together to Strengthen Global One Health”. He explained the importance of collaboration and research continuity that can provide real benefits. Leipzig itself has collaborated with various universities in the world, especially on the African continent, he calls it the Triangular Collaboration. Collaboration with Indonesia, especially Universitas Gadjah Mada and Faculty of Biology is also a great opportunity to further explore potential research collaborations that can be beneficial in the future.

In his explanation regarding One Health, Dr. Ahmed also mentioned the WHO, FAO, WOAH and UNEP programs, namely The One Health Joint Plan of Action which was created to tackle and prevent pandemics and achieve sustainable health. The realization of Global One Health also requires various collaborations in the form of capacity building, translating science into an official regulation for public health and increasing Triangular Collaboration, involving various parties, researchers from various parts of the world to solve world health problems.

Dr. Ahmed then explained about the Mobile Suitcase Lab, a tool package that allows laboratory work to be done in the field. The tool aims to minimize limitations in research so that samples can be processed in a shorter span of time. This explanation is packaged in the Novel Isothermal Amplification Training. During the training the SwiftX Nucleid Acid Kit was used and practical work was carried out on the extraction preparation to amplification which can be carried out in a more efficient time.

The Visit of Dr. Ahmed and Prof. Truyen to the Faculty of Biology UGM is a form of collaboration with the aim of increasing research and education quality. It is hoped that this collaboration can continue and produce research works that are useful for education in Indonesia and the wider community.

Yogyakarta, July 24, 2023 – Delegates from the Faculty of Science, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand, conducted a visit to the Faculty of Biology, Gadjah Mada University (UGM) to strengthen cooperation and collaboration in the fields of academics and research. The delegation from Kasetsart University, consisting of Professor Kornsorn Srikulnath, Ph.D., and Thitipong Panthum, M.Sc., Ph.D. (cand.), was warmly welcomed by officials and lecturers of UGM’s Faculty of Biology at the KPTU meeting room.

The welcoming remarks for the visit were delivered at the KPTU meeting room, Faculty of Biology, UGM, by Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., the Dean of UGM’s Faculty of Biology, Dr. Bambang Retnoaji, M.Sc., the Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., the Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration, and Alumni, Dr. Endah Retnaningrum, M.Eng, the Head of the Doctoral Program, Nur Indah Septriani, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., and Dr. Abdul Rahman Siregar, M.Biotech., from the Office of International Affairs, as well as Sari Darmasiwi, S.Si., M.Biotech., Ph.D., a faculty member of UGM’s Faculty of Biology, who is also an alumnus of Kasetsart University.

The visit commenced with a comprehensive presentation of UGM’s Faculty of Biology’s profile delivered by Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., the Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Cooperation, and Alumni Affairs of UGM’s Faculty of Biology.The purpose of this visit was to strengthen cooperation between the two institutions in the areas of academics and research, as well as to facilitate the exchange of knowledge among biologists from both countries. As part of their agenda, Professor Kornsorn Srikulnath and Thitipong Panthum are planning to hold several joint lecture programs on fascinating topics, including animal genomics and biosource for food security and biodiversity, enhancing biodiversity and genetic diversity through the chicken bioresource, wildlife genomics for conservation management, utilizing catfish as a bioresource for food production and breeding programs, and exploring the potential for research collaboration through laboratory visits.

Professor Kornsorn Srikulnath, a renowned expert in animal genetics, expressed his delight at the warm reception from UGM’s Faculty of Biology and conveyed his hope to expand cooperation with this prestigious institution. He also expressed his intention to establish closer partnerships in biodiversity research, which can bring significant benefits to both nations.

Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., Dean of UGM’s Faculty of Biology, expressed high appreciation for the visit and reaffirmed the faculty’s commitment to actively contribute to biodiversity conservation and the advancement of scientific knowledge in enhancing global environmental resilience.

Professor Kornsorn Srikulnath and Thitipong Panthum are scheduled to stay in Yogyakarta until August 5, 2023, allowing ample time for collaboration with academics and researchers at UGM’s Faculty of Biology. It is hoped that this visit will yield substantial benefits for both parties and contribute to further solidifying UGM’s Faculty of Biology as a leading center for research and education in biology at the international level.

On Monday, 24 July 2023 Faculty of Biology received a visit from Dr. Ahmed Abd El Wahed and Prof. Uwe Truyen from The Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health, University of Leipzig, Germany. The visit was received at the Leadership Meeting Room, Faculty of Biology, by the Dean of the Faculty of Biology, Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Cooperation and Alumni, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs, Dr. Bambang Retnoaji, S.Sc., M.Sc., Head of Office of International Affairs, Faculty of Biology, Dr.rer.nat. Abdul Rahman Siregar, S.Sc., M.Biotech, and Nur Indah Septriani, S.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D.

The visit began with an introduction to Faculty of Biology and Universitas Gadjah Mada in general by the Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Cooperation and Alumni, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc. The presentation was related to the history of the Faculty of Biology, achievements, study programs offered, facilities, and collaborations that have been established between the Faculty of Biology UGM and various institutions and companies also universities around the world.

Dr. Ahmed and Prof. Truyen then gave a presentation regarding the University of Leipzig, especially the Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health. They explained the profile of the university in general to the curriculum offered especially at the Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health. Dr. Ahmed also explained the importance of collaboration and the realization of this collaboration in terms of research. Leipzig itself has collaborated with various universities in the world, especially on the African continent, he calls it the Triangle Collaboration. Collaboration with Indonesia, especially Universitas Gadjah Mada and Faculty of Biology is also a good opportunity to further explore potential research collaborations that can be beneficial in the future. One form of this collaboration is a research tool grant from the University of Leipzig which was handed over to the Microbiology Laboratory of the Faculty of Biology in the form of the Mobile Suitcase Lab, an innovative tool that enables easy research and research in the field.

Visit agenda of Dr. Ahmed and Prof. Truyen to the Faculty of Biology as well as gave a public lecture which was held in the series of The 6th International Summer Course at the Faculty of Biology with the theme of the public lecture “One Health and Sustainable Development in The Anthropocene and Climate Changes”. It is hoped that the collaboration between the Faculty of Biology UGM and the University of Leipzig, especially The Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health, can produce research and educational collaborations that can benefit the wider community.

Yogyakarta, Indonesia – July 24, 2023: The Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) proudly inaugurates the 6th International Summer Course on Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development, a platform aimed at promoting knowledge sharing and collaboration among experts and students from around the world. The series of lectures commenced on Monday, July 24, 2023, in a hybrid format, featuring eminent speakers from the Libyan Academy for Postgraduate Studies and Leipzig University.

The first lecture series of the summer course was centered around the theme “One Health and Sustainable Development in the Anthropocene and Climate Change,” addressing critical issues at the nexus of human, animal, and environmental health, while emphasizing the urgent need for sustainable practices in the face of the Anthropocene era and climate change challenges.

The esteemed speakers for this inaugural session were Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mostafa Mohamed Omar Abdoarrahem – Libyan Academy for Postgraduate Studies and Ahmed Abd El Wahed, BVSc, MVSc, Ph.D. – Leipzig University. Both speakers brought their profound expertise and extensive research to enlighten the audience about the interconnections between health, biodiversity, and environmental conservation. The attendees were enriched with novel insights into the complex dynamics of One Health and its significance in achieving sustainable development goals. The 6th International Summer Course on Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development utilized a hybrid format, allowing participants to attend either in-person at Classroom 1, Building B, Faculty of Biology, UGM, or virtually from any corner of the globe. The course has taken advantage of modern technology to ensure inclusivity and accessibility for attendees worldwide.

The first lecture series witnessed an impressive turnout, with 53 enthusiastic participants joining online and 16 scholars engaging in-person. The diversity and active participation of attendees added to the dynamism of the discussion, fostering international collaboration in the pursuit of sustainable solutions. Over the upcoming weeks, the 6th International Summer Course on Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development will continue to host various captivating lecture series, workshops, and interactive sessions led by renowned experts and academics. Participants will explore multifaceted topics related to tropical biodiversity conservation, ecological balance, and sustainable development practices. The Faculty of Biology, UGM, extends its gratitude to the distinguished speakers and participants for contributing to the success of this lecture series. Their enthusiasm and commitment to knowledge exchange lay the groundwork for a brighter, sustainable future.