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Faculty of Biology UGM Community Service Program Introduces Fish and Microalgae Diversity to Students of Kiyaran 1 Elementary School, Wukirsari Village, Cangkringan District, Sleman Regency to Support Quality Education (SDG 4)

Community ServiceNews Release Tuesday, 9 June 2026

Sleman, June 5, 2026 – The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), once again conducted a Community Service Program (Pengabdian kepada Masyarakat/PkM) as part of its commitment to supporting the improvement of basic education quality in local communities. The program, entitled “Community Service through the Enrichment of Biology Learning at Kiyaran 1 Elementary School, Wukirsari Village, Cangkringan District, Sleman Regency to Support Quality Education (SDG 4)”, was held on Friday, June 5, 2026, at Kiyaran 1 Elementary School, Wukirsari Village, Cangkringan District, Sleman Regency.


The activity involved students of Kiyaran 1 Elementary School and was supported by lecturers and students from the Faculty of Biology UGM. The event was opened by the Master of Ceremony, Sidiq Permana Putra, S.Si., M.Sc., followed by welcoming remarks from the Principal of Kiyaran 1 Elementary School, Kristiana Widi Rahayu, S.Pd., and the Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Cooperation, and Alumni Affairs of the Faculty of Biology UGM, Prof. Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, S.Si., M.App.Sc.

In his remarks, Prof. Eko Agus Suyono emphasized the importance of introducing biological sciences at an early age through engaging and contextual learning methods. Through this activity, students were expected to become more familiar with the living organisms around them and to develop curiosity toward science and the environment.

The main agenda of the program consisted of interactive educational sessions. The first session was delivered by Prof. Dra. Tuty Arisuryanti, M.Sc., Ph.D., under the theme “Introduction to Ornamental and Food Fish.” During this session, students learned about various fish species based on their habitats, understood the differences between ornamental fish and food fish, and explored the nutritional benefits of fish for human health. The material was presented in simple language and supported by examples closely related to the students’ daily lives, making it easy to understand.

The second session was delivered by Prof. Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, S.Si., M.App.Sc., with the topic “Introduction to Microalgae.” In this session, students were introduced to microalgae as microscopic organisms that play vital roles in aquatic ecosystems and life on Earth. Through engaging illustrations, students learned about photosynthesis, the role of microalgae as oxygen producers, their function as a food source for aquatic organisms, and their applications in health, energy, and environmental sectors. Students were also

encouraged to understand the importance of maintaining water quality to prevent algal blooms that may negatively affect aquatic life.

As a creative and enjoyable learning activity, the program continued with a fish and microalgae drawing and coloring competition for students in grades 3, 4, and 5. Through this activity, students were given the opportunity to express their understanding and imagination regarding the topics presented. The participants demonstrated great enthusiasm, as reflected in their artworks, which showcased both creativity and a good understanding of fish and microalgae diversity.

As an output of the program, the community service team also developed an educational flipbook containing introductory materials on ornamental fish, food fish, and microalgae as a learning resource for both students and teachers. In addition, the team produced a documentary video capturing the entire series of activities, including educational sessions, interactive discussions, and the drawing and coloring competition. The flipbook and documentary video are expected to serve as dissemination tools that extend the impact of the program to a wider audience while supporting the sustainability of science and environmental education in schools.

This Community Service Program is part of the Faculty of Biology UGM’s commitment to supporting the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, through the strengthening of scientific literacy and environmental education among younger generations. It is hoped that similar activities can continue to be carried out sustainably to foster students’ interest in science while cultivating environmental awareness from an early age.

The program also involved lecturers from the Faculty of Biology UGM, namely Prof. Dr. Diah Rachmawati, S.Si., M.Si., Prof. Rina Sri Kasiamdari, S.Si., Ph.D., Dr. Maryani, M.Sc., Dr. Aprilia Sufi Subiastuti, S.Si., Dr. Wiko Arif Wibowo, S.Si., Dr. Utaminingsih, S.Si., M.Sc., and Dr. Siti Nurbaiti, S.Si. The activity was further supported by doctoral students Novita Yustinadiar, S.Si., M.Si., and Catarina Retno Herani Setyati, as well as master’s students Tika Permatasari and Fahima Ellya Wulandari, who contributed to the successful implementation of the program.

#SDG 4: Quality Education #SDG 14: Life Below Water

#SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals

UGM-Universiti Malaya Collaboration Encourages Increase in Strawberry Productivity and Strengthen Farmers Capacity in Banyuroto

Community Service Sunday, 7 June 2026

Magelang, Indonesia – Dr. Ganies Riza Aristya, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D. together with a research team from the Smart Genetics Research Group, Faculty of Biology, Gadjah Mada University (UGM) and international collaborators from Universiti Malaya consisting of Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tan Boon Chin, Dr. Chua Kah Ooi, and Dr. Lau Su Ee implemented genetics-based agricultural innovations and sustainable cultivation through Community Service Program Community Development Based on Applied Research and Community Empowerment with International Collaborators supported by the Equity Program of Gadjah Mada University. This program aims to improve the quality and productivity of Indonesian strawberries through the application of research technology and strengthening the capacity of farmers through international collaboration. This activity is a form of downstream research carried out by universities in order to provide direct benefits to the community while supporting sustainable agricultural development.

The program with the theme “Development of Modern Integrated Farming through Smart Genetics Breeding Program Technology to Improve the Quality and Production of Indonesian Strawberries” was held at  the Inggit Strawberry Garden, Banyuroto Village, Sawangan District, Magelang Regency, Central Java. Banyuroto Village, which is located on the slopes of Mount Merapi and Merbabu, is one of the strawberry-producing areas that has developed as a community-based agrotourism destination. The potential of natural resources makes this area a strategic location for the application of research- and technology-based agricultural innovations. However, farmers still face a number of challenges in strawberry cultivation, including plant productivity that tends to fluctuate, fruit quality that is not uniform and optimal, and limited access to modern cultivation technology. Therefore, this service program is present as an effort to bridge the results of university research with the real needs of the community through the application of plant genetics technology and cultivation systems that are more efficient, productive, and sustainable.

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In response to these various problems, the service team applied  the Smart Genetics Breeding  approach as a genetic-based plant breeding technology developed from the research results of the research team. This technology utilizes the polyploidization method  to produce superior strawberry varieties that have better agronomic characteristics. The crops developed are expected to have larger fruit sizes, better quality, higher productivity, and stronger adaptability to environmental changes.

In addition to the development of superior seeds, this program also integrates the concept  of Modern Integrated Farming through the application of a more measurable and data-based cultivation system. Farmers receive assistance on the use of precision agriculture technology to support more effective land and crop management. This approach is expected to improve cultivation efficiency while helping farmers make more informed decisions based on field conditions.

Collaboration with the University of Malaya is one of the important components in the implementation of this programme. One of the topics introduced by the Universiti Malaya team is the use of hydroponic systems as an alternative cultivation method that is more efficient and adaptive to land limitations. The system is considered to be able to support plant growth in a more controlled manner while increasing the efficiency of water and nutrient use. The Universiti Malaya team also shared experiences related to the management and replacement of planting media in 2-5 harvest cycles to reduce the potential for environmental pollution due to excessive use of fertilizers and support a more environmentally friendly cultivation system.

According to Dr. Ganies Riza Aristya, international collaboration provides great added value in the development of community service programs. “Through this collaboration, we not only implement the results of the research that has been developed at UGM, but also gain various new perspectives from the experiences of international partners. The exchange of knowledge is very important to produce solutions that are more innovative and relevant to the needs of farmers,” he said. This program also includes various mentoring activities for farmer groups, ranging from strengthening cultivation capacity, applying agricultural technology, to developing a more sustainable production system. Through these activities, farmers are expected to be able to increase productivity while understanding the importance of efficient resource management in agricultural business. The participatory approach applied also allows the community to be actively involved in the process of developing and applying technology.

This program is also in line with Gadjah Mada University’s commitment to supporting the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through the application of Smart Genetics Breeding technology and more sustainable cultivation practices, this activity contributes to SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) through increasing productivity and the quality of agricultural products that support food security. This program also supports SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) through strengthening the capacity of farmers and increasing the productivity of farming businesses which has the potential to improve community welfare. Through the synergy between research-based innovation, community empowerment, and international collaboration, this program is expected to become a model of sustainable agricultural development that provides long-term benefits to the community and supports the development of Indonesia’s more advanced and competitive agriculture.

 

Faculty of Biology UGM Promotes the Empowerment of KWT “Lestari” through Waste Management Education and Sustainable Integrated Farming

Community ServiceNews Release Monday, 11 May 2026

On Saturday, 9 May 2026, the Community Service Team (PkM) of the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), led by Prof. Dr. Diah Rachmawati, S.Si., M.Si., carried out the first activity of its community engagement program entitled “Empowering the Women Farmers Group (KWT) ‘Lestari’ through Waste Management Education and the Development of Integrated Plant Cultivation to Achieve Sustainable Consumption and Production (SDG 12)”. The activity was held in Mertosanan Kulon, Potorono Village, Bantul Regency, Special Region of Yogyakarta. The team, consisting of Prof. Dr.rer.nat. Andhika Puspito Nugroho, Dr. Siti Nurbaiti, S.Si., and Dr. Wiko Arif Wibowo, S.Si., also involved students from various academic levels, namely Winda Fionita Nur Safitri, Layly Salsabila, Alfonsus Fidel Pandu Ekanto, and Miftahurrozi from the undergraduate program; Noor Laila Safitri, S.Si., from the master’s program; as well as Fatimatuzzahra, S.Pd., M.Sc. from the doctoral program.


The event began with opening remarks from Prof. Diah, who expressed her appreciation for the participation of KWT “Lestari” in this community service initiative as a collaborative effort to support village development and improve the local economy. The Head of Mertosanan Kulon Hamlet, Mrs. Atik Mudawamah, S.Ag., also delivered remarks and shared her concerns regarding current environmental issues, particularly waste management. She stated that the existence of a TPS 3R (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle Waste Management Facility) in Mertosanan Kulon is an important asset for the community. According to her, the waste collection schedule based on waste type could help improve local waste handling practices. Through this program, she hoped that more residents would become motivated to participate in and utilize the TPS 3R facility.

The opening session was followed by the signing and handover of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Faculty of Biology UGM and KWT “Lestari”, presented by Prof. Diah to the head of KWT “Lestari”. Prior to the presentation sessions, participants from KWT “Lestari” completed a pre-test to assess their initial understanding of waste management and integrated farming development. The program socialization was then delivered by Prof. Dr. Diah Rachmawati, S.Si., M.Si., who introduced the team members and explained the objectives as well as the planned activities throughout the community service period. She emphasized that environmental issues have become an important challenge that must be addressed collectively. Through education, mentoring, and continuous assistance, the program aims to encourage the community to independently implement sustainable environmental practices in the future.

The next session focused on waste management education, delivered by Prof. Dr.rer.nat. Andhika Puspito Nugroho and Fatimatuzzahra, S.Pd., M.Sc. The materials covered included the introduction of organic and inorganic waste, the dangers of microplastics, hazardous and toxic waste (B3), and the concept of waste banks. In addition to revisiting the principles of 3R (Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle) participants also received explanations regarding the importance of waste sorting at the household level and the environmental risks associated with open waste burning. Prof. Andhika explained that waste can enter water bodies such as rivers, and disposing of waste directly into rivers is not a solution but may instead contribute to flooding. He further noted that plastic particles or microplastics may be ingested by fish and could potentially affect human health when consumed through the food chain.

The activity was attended by members of KWT “Lestari”, the Head of Mertosanan Kulon Hamlet, the Head of the KKB of Mertosanan Kulon, and representatives of the community police officer (Bhabinkamtibmas) of Potorono Village. Throughout the event, participants demonstrated strong enthusiasm through interactive discussions and various questions related to waste management and environmental concerns faced by local residents. As a form of appreciation, the PkM team distributed door prizes during the event. Additional appreciation was also given to participants who achieved high pre-test scores and those who proposed ideas for future community service activities. As a follow-up to this activity, the Faculty of Biology UGM Community Service Team plans to conduct further activities in June 2026, including training on compost production and the utilization of maggots for organic waste management.

Overall, this program supports the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12 on Responsible Consumption and Production. The initiative is expected to enhance the knowledge and skills of KWT “Lestari” members in waste management and sustainable household farming practices, while also contributing to SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).

Unveiling the Chloroplast Genome of ‘Mencir’ Strawberry to Support Breeding of Superior Indonesian Strawberries

Community Service Sunday, 14 December 2025

A research team from the Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), led by Ganies Riza Aristya, Ph.D., has achieved a significant milestone in Indonesian strawberry genomic research by successfully uncovering and characterizing the complete chloroplast genome of the superior local strawberry cultivar, ‘Mencir’. This research, funded by a Fundamental Basic Research Grant from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology, successfully optimized a high-quality DNA extraction method using a modified CTAB buffer, yielding DNA with optimal purity and concentration for next-generation sequencing. Nanopore sequencing technology using the ONT PromethION platform successfully generated comprehensive chloroplast genomic data, with a total length of 155,568 base pairs, which was then assembled and annotated comprehensively.

In-depth analysis of the genome revealed the structure and organization of critical genes involved in photosynthesis and chloroplast gene regulation, namely the ndh, pet, and rpo gene groups. The mapping of exon-intron structures, analysis of conserved motifs, and 3D protein structure predictions successfully provided detailed insights into the complexity and uniqueness of each gene group. Furthermore, the research team, which includes three Faculty of Biology students—Tika Nur Amini, Andreas Wibisono, and Tan Rendy—also conducted a robust phylogenetic analysis, confirming strong kinship relationships among species within the Rosaceae family and strengthening the understanding of the evolutionary history and chloroplast inheritance patterns in the commercial hybrid strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa).

This research activity has not only produced highly valuable foundational data but has also yielded several tangible outputs, including two research publications in reputable international journals, as well as dissemination videos and posters. Synergistic collaboration with local partners—such as Inggit Strawberry Agritourism in Magelang and Sleman—and the genomics industry partner Integrated Genome Factory (IGF), has enriched the research process and ensured the applied relevance of the achieved results.

Strategically, this research achievement provides a solid scientific foundation for strawberry breeding programs based on molecular markers and gene editing technologies such as CRISPR/Cas9. In the second year, the research will focus on the functional validation of candidate genes and the identification of quantitative trait loci (QTL) for important agronomic traits, such as disease resistance and photosynthetic efficiency, which can be directly utilized by plant breeders.

Finally, this research activity directly contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 2: Zero Hunger, Achieving Food Security and Improved Nutrition, and Promoting Sustainable Agriculture. By developing superior strawberry varieties that are more productive, stress-tolerant, and adaptive to local conditions, this research promotes a more resilient and sustainable agricultural system. Additionally, through enhancing the capacity of local human resources and transferring knowledge to farmers (SDG 4: Quality Education), as well as inclusive multi-stakeholder collaboration (SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals), this research serves as a tangible example of how genomic science can be directed to support food sovereignty, community empowerment, and sustainable and equitable agricultural development in Indonesia.

Training on Organic and Inorganic Waste Processing in Tegalrejo: A Collaboration between the Faculty of Biology UGM and Pertamina Patra Niaga AFT Adi Sumarmo under the TEH SEKAR Program

Community ServiceNews Release Friday, 12 December 2025

Tegalrejo, 11 December 2025


The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, in collaboration with PT Pertamina Patra Niaga AFT Adi Sumarmo through its assisted program Tegalrejo Hijau, Sehat, dan Berdikari (Teh Sekar), held a community service activity titled “Training on Organic and Inorganic Waste Processing” on 11 December 2025 in Tegalrejo. The training was attended by 14 participants who are members of the Miguno Waste Bank.

he training aimed to enhance the community’s capacity in proper waste sorting and processing, as well as to support environmental self-sufficiency in the Tegalrejo area. Two speakers from the Faculty of Biology UGM delivered the materials: Mrs. Novita Yustinadiar, S.Si., M.Si., who presented the topic of inorganic waste processing, and Mr. Jamal Musa Holle, S.Si., M.Env.Sc., D.Phil., who explained organic waste processing techniques.

The event began with a pre-test to assess participants’ baseline knowledge regarding waste management. During the training sessions, participants received theoretical explanations and practical demonstrations on household waste processing techniques applicable to daily activities. The training concluded with a post-test to evaluate participants’ improvement and the effectiveness of the program.

Throughout the training, participants practiced creating various recycled products, such as crafts made from plastic bottles and the making of sofa cushions and bean bags using shredded plastic fillers. This activity aimed to utilize low-value plastic waste by transforming it into economically valuable products while also reducing harmful practices such as burning plastic waste. In the organic waste processing session, participants learned compost-making using the Berkeley method (layering technique in compost bags) and organic waste processing using maggots in a maggot box.

As part of the support for empowering the Miguno Waste Bank, one unit of a plastic waste shredding machine was donated to assist in processing plastic materials used as filler for sofa cushions and bean bags. Participants also received brochures and practical guides on organic and inorganic waste processing that are easy to follow and implement independently.

This training directly supports several indicators within the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Contributions to SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) are reflected in efforts to improve environmental quality and reduce health risks associated with improper waste management. Educational materials delivered by the speakers, along with the pre-test and post-test mechanisms, reinforce SDG 4 (Quality Education). From an environmental perspective, the activity supports SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) by reducing pollution potential, and strengthens SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) by fostering environmentally conscious communities. Additionally, the training promotes SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) by improving practices of waste sorting, reuse, and recycling. The implementation of composting techniques aligns with SDG 13 (Climate Action) by helping reduce greenhouse gas emissions from organic waste. Overall, this activity exemplifies the implementation of SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through strong collaboration between the Faculty of Biology UGM, the Teh Sekar Program, and PT Pertamina Patra Niaga AFT Adi Sumarmo in advancing sustainable community empowerment.

From Village to Village: Optimizing Superior Local Chicken and Catfish Seedlings in Tegalrejo Hamlet, Ngresep Village, Boyolali Regency

Community ServiceNews Release Wednesday, 3 December 2025

A community service program titled “Community-Based Production of Superior Local Chicken and Catfish Seedlings” was held on November 29, 2025, at the Baiturrahim Masjid in Tegalrejo Hamlet, Ngesrep Village, Boyolali Regency. The event was officially opened by Ms. Siti Fatonah, a representative of PT. Pertamina Patra Niaga. This program, which has been running for approximately four months, is a collaboration between the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) and PT. Pertamina Patra Niaga, emphasizing community empowerment in the livestock and aquaculture sectors. The activity supports several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), namely SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through knowledge transfer, mentoring, and multi-sector collaboration.


During the event, Dr. med.vet.drh. Hendry Saragih, M.P. delivered a presentation on proper management practices for free-range chicken husbandry. He highlighted the importance of maintaining chicken health through effective feed management, sanitation, disease prevention, and proper coop construction. Participants also received guidance on selecting superior local chicken breeds to enhance productivity and strengthen the sustainability of community-based livestock enterprises. The program was facilitated by Dr. Ardaning Nuriliani, S.Si., M.Kes. In addition, Ms. Nur Indah Septriani, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D. distributed educational leaflets on proper catfish farming techniques, including pond preparation, selecting high-quality catfish fry, water quality management, and efficient maintenance practices—knowledge crucial for promoting responsible aquaculture in line with SDG 12.

The activity was attended by eight residents representing the Tegalrejo Hamlet farmer group, who participated enthusiastically and actively discussed challenges and strategies related to effective chicken and fish farming. To conclude the event, participants and speakers conducted a field visit to the model chicken coop and catfish ponds constructed by the local community. Through this program, it is expected that residents will be able to implement productive and sustainable farming practices while strengthening local partnerships as a tangible contribution to SDG 17, ultimately supporting improved economic welfare and village-level food security.

Contributors: Ardaning Nuriliani, Hendry Saragih, Nur Indah Septriani

Faculty of Biology UGM Introduces Medicinal Plants to Strengthen Science Literacy Among SDN Pusmalang Students

Community ServiceNews Release Tuesday, 25 November 2025

Sleman, 24 November 2025 — The Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) continued its community engagement efforts through the Desa Mitra (Partner Village) Program in Wukirsari Village, Cangkringan Subdistrict, Sleman Regency. In this session, the faculty team introduced Medicinal Family Plants (TOGA) to fifth-grade students of SDN Pusmalang, aiming to enhance their basic understanding of the health benefits of local plant biodiversity.


This activity is part of the Wukirsari Desa Mitra Program coordinated by Prof. Rina Sri Kasiamdari, S.Si., PhD. Faculty members who attended the event included Prof. Dr Diah Rachmawati, S.Si., M.Si.; Prof. Dra. Tuty Arisuryanti, M.Sc., PhD.; Dr. Aprilia Sufi Subiastuti, S.Si.; Dr. Wiko Arif Wibowo, S.Si.; Dr. Maryani, M.Sc.; Dr. Siti Nurbaiti, S.Si. along with doctoral student representative Sidiq Permana Putra, S.Si., M.Sc.

Held on Monday, 24 November 2025, the session was attended by more than 26 students. The teaching team consisted of Dr. Maryani, M.Sc.; Dr. Siti Nurbaiti, S.Si.; and Dr. Wiko Arif Wibowo, S.Si. During the program, the lecturers introduced various common medicinal plants, including ginger, turmeric, temulawak, kencur, lemongrass, beluntas, betel leaf, and other herbs typically found in households.

Through interactive presentations, students learned to identify the characteristics of medicinal plants, understand their health benefits, and explore simple ways to use them in daily life. The session also included direct observation of plant samples and a question–and–answer segment to reinforce their understanding.

According to Dr. Maryani, M.Sc., early exposure to medicinal plants is crucial for fostering young people’s awareness of health and Indonesia’s rich biodiversity. “Children need to reconnect with the useful plants that grow around them. Science literacy begins with simple, familiar things in their daily environment,” she explained.

As the final part of the session, the teaching team conducted a simple assessment to evaluate the students’ understanding of Family Medicinal Plants (TOGA). In this activity, students were asked to identify the names of various plants arranged on the front table. A total of 26 questions were given during the assessment. The results showed that most students were able to answer correctly, with the class achieving an average score of 60 out of 100, indicating a moderate but encouraging level of comprehension. This evaluation also demonstrated that the interactive learning method effectively supported the students’ science literacy and helped them retain essential concepts.

The activity received enthusiastic participation from the students, who enjoyed the hands-on learning experience. Teachers at SDN Pusmalang also welcomed the program, stating that it enriched students’ scientific understanding through practical and engaging activities.

This community empowerment initiative aligns with UGM’s commitment to supporting SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) by promoting health education rooted in local wisdom, and SDG 4 (Quality Education) by enhancing the quality of science learning at the primary school level. Moreover, the program strengthens collaborations between the academic community and local society as part of the Faculty of Biology’s ongoing scientific responsibility.

The Faculty of Biology hopes that this educational activity will inspire students to appreciate Indonesia’s biodiversity and recognise the importance of sustainably utilising local natural resources.

Herbal Soap-Making Practice and Training on Packaging and Marketing of Home-Garden Processed Products

Community ServiceNews Release Thursday, 20 November 2025

The 2025 PkM-MBKM Team, led by Prof. Dr. Diah Rachmawati, S.Si., M.Si. with members Jovanka, Khansa Fauziah Rachman, Samantha Sonya Putri, and Dhea Amelia, conducted a practical workshop on herbal soap production as well as product packaging and marketing for the Women Farmers Group (KWT) Amanda on Sunday, 16 November 2025, in Padukuhan Kepuh Wetan, Wirokerten Village, Banguntapan Subdistrict, Bantul Regency, Special Region of Yogyakarta. During the program, members of KWT Amanda received hands-on guidance on utilizing home-garden commodities into marketable products. The training focused on two main topics: the practice of herbal soap making and the packaging and marketing of processed products made from butterfly pea, roselle, ginger, and lemongrass. Packaging and marketing strategies are essential aspects of increasing the added value of a product, especially for home-based business groups such as KWT. Proper packaging not only functions to protect the product but also serves as a medium for information, brand identity, and visual appeal that influences consumer purchasing decisions. Meanwhile, appropriate marketing strategies whether through direct selling or the use of digital platforms can broaden market reach, improve the competitiveness of local products, and support small-scale entrepreneurs in building sustainable economic growth.


The activity began with an explanation of the herbal soap-making process, starting from the introduction of safe natural ingredients, composition comparisons, mixing techniques, and the soap molding stage. Members of KWT Amanda were also informed about the function of each ingredient, potential variations in shape and scent, as well as product safety standards to ensure consistent production. After the presentation, participants engaged in hands-on soap-making practice under the guidance of the team. The next session focused on packaging and marketing strategies for processed products made from butterfly pea, roselle, ginger, and lemongrass. The team delivered materials on basic principles of packaging design, the importance of product identity (branding), and how to create attractive and informative labels. In addition, KWT members received training on marketing local products through various channels, both direct selling and digital platforms, to strengthen the competitiveness of the products they produce.

Members of KWT actively participate in practicing making herbal soap and discussing how to independently market herbal products. Their active participation indicates that the skills provided were relevant and applicable to the development of household-scale businesses. This program is expected to enhance the utilization of home-garden resources, strengthen food resilience and independence (SDG 2), promote the use of natural and health-supporting materials (SDG 3), create opportunities for small-scale enterprises based on local potential (SDG 9), and reinforce partnerships between universities and communities (SDG 17).

PkM MBKM, Faculty of Biology UGM 2025: Empowering the Kepuh Kulon Community, RT 001, Wirokerten, Banguntapan, Bantul Through Socialization and Training on TOGA for Family Health Phase Two (II): Making Natural TOGA Soap from Lemongrass

Community Service Tuesday, 18 November 2025

The production of natural TOGA soap from lemongrass by the Pengabdian kepada Masyarakat – Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka (PkM-MBKM) team Faculty of Biology UGM 2025, chaired by Prof. Rina Sri Kasiamdari, S.Si., Ph.D. in the second phase of the PkM-MBKM program in Kepuh Kulon RT 001, Wirokerten, Banguntapan, Bantul through the production of soap using TOGA (Family Medicinal Plants) as raw material. This activity is a continuation of the PkM-MBKM program that was previously implemented from February to June 2025. The team involved five students, namely Swastikhansa Parahita Sulistyaningrum, Afrina Syah Putri, Isna Kuminingrum, Asitya Fitri Miadi, and Amyra Asa Nurhanifa, with the aim of increasing public awareness about the use of TOGA plants through the innovation of TOGA-based soap, especially lemongrass, which is easily available, as an effort to support skin health and can be used by various groups, including children. This event marked the fifth and final activity of the PkM-MBKM program in RT 001 Kepuh Kulon. It was held on Sunday, November 2, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the residence of the RT Head, Mr. Zamzuri. The event was enthusiastically attended and carried out by 20 society and Mr. Sunartono, the Head of Kepuh Kulon Hamlet, who opened the event by emphasizing the importance of utilizing TOGA for family health and encouraging residents’ independence in continuing the program of making natural soap from easily available TOGA. Prof. Rina also highlighted the benefits of the innovative soap made from lemongrass and olive oil, which is safe for children and healthy for the skin, while stressing the importance of community solidarity in enhancing creativity and the local economy.

The community service activities included socialization on making lemongrass soap and practicing making natural soap from lemongrass, as well as socialization on digital marketing. The socialization on making lemongrass soap was carried out by providing information on what medicinal plants are, their uses, their contents and benefits when used as ingredients for natural soap (lemongrass), the tools and materials needed, and how to make the soap. The digital marketing socialization was carried out by providing information about the objectives of digital marketing, creating an account on one of the online selling platforms, how to sell online, and tips on how to make products known to the wider community. After the workshop, there will be a quiz for residents and door prizes will be given out. At the end of the activity, participating village partners will be given souvenirs as a token of appreciation for their participation.

The PkM-MBKM team provided a set of soap-making tools that are expected to be used for practice and as souvenirs as a form of appreciation or proof of participation for village partners. The 2025 PkM-MBKM program is expected to provide information on processing TOGA into products that are beneficial to health and can improve the community’s economy. This activity supports SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, SDG 6 Clean Water and Sanitation, SDG 8 Decent Work and Economic Growth, and SDG 12 Responsible Consumption and Production.

UGM Lecturer Receives RCE Awards 2025 from United Nations University for Sustainable Education Project

Community Service Sunday, 9 November 2025

Yogyakarta, November 2025 —
Ganies Riza Aristya, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., lecturer at the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), has once again received international recognition by being awarded the RCE Awards 2025 from the United Nations University – Institute for the Advanced Study of Sustainability (UNU-IAS), Tokyo, Japan.

The award was presented to RCE Yogyakarta for the project entitled “Integrated Holistic Education System as a Strategy to Improve Educational Quality in Marginalized Villages through Transpolitan Community Services”, led by Ganies Riza Aristya. The project builds upon the Transpolitan Community Services model, which integrates universities, local communities, and regional governments to develop inclusive and contextual education systems. This model strengthens the synergy between formal, non-formal, and community-based education to empower rural communities. The project was recognized as an Acknowledged Flagship Project at the Global RCE Awards 2025.

The RCE (Regional Centre of Expertise on Education for Sustainable Development) initiative, under the coordination of UNU-IAS, promotes education for sustainable development worldwide. This award acknowledges outstanding contributions to advancing inclusive education, cross-sector collaboration, and community empowerment toward sustainable development.

This achievement follows Ganies’s previous success in receiving the Outstanding Flagship Project RCE Awards 2023, which highlighted an integrated education system based on agrotourism potential. “This award demonstrates that the synergy between education, community empowerment, and environmental conservation can bring real transformation toward sustainability,” said Ganies. Through this recognition, the Faculty of Biology UGM continues to strengthen its commitment to advancing research-based education and community engagement for environmental sustainability and social welfare.

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