Mount Merapi National Park Authority (Balai TNGM), in collaboration with the Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), held a three-day training on collecting distribution and population density data for five taxa using environmental DNA (eDNA) techniques on November 3-5, 2026. Ten Balai TNGM staff took part: eight forest ecosystem controllers and two forest police officers.

The training aimed to build staff capacity to design, carry out, and interpret eDNA-based biodiversity surveys as a complement to conventional monitoring. eDNA detects species from genetic material left in water or sediment, without capturing animals. The approach is non-invasive and well suited to hazardous terrain across the park’s 6,607.52 hectares.

The program focused on two common weak points: the quality of field sampling and the interpretation of results. Day one, held at the park authority’s meeting room and in the field, covered eDNA fundamentals, sampling design, and hands-on sample collection and preservation, contamination control, and chain of custody. Day two, at UGM’s Animal Systematics Laboratory, covered the path from sample to data, reading metabarcoding tables, diversity analysis, and the limits of conclusions that can be drawn for management. Day three consisted of DNA extraction, qPCR, and data analysis practice.

Participants worked in two groups of five, with about 40 percent of training time devoted to guided practice.

The training set targets of at least 80 percent of participants passing the practical sampling assessment, and the drafting of a concise field-ready eDNA sampling SOP and a one-year eDNA monitoring plan.

The activity supports Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 15, Life on Land. It equips field staff with a non-invasive method for monitoring biodiversity, helping the park gather species-presence data in a more standardized way. The partnership with a university also contributes to SDG 17, Partnerships for the Goals. Long-term impact will depend on whether monitoring continues after the training.

About Mount Merapi National Park Authority

Balai TNGM manages a 6,607.52-hectare protected area in Sleman (Yogyakarta) and Magelang, Boyolali, and Klaten (Central Java), at elevations of 600 to 2,968 meters above sea level. The area serves as a water catchment and as habitat for wild plants and animals.

Lichen is a mutualistic symbiotic organism composed of a fungus and an alga. As a composite life form, lichen plays vital ecological roles and holds broad potential for various applications, such as pharmaceuticals, food resources, and natural dyes. In an effort to support biodiversity research and environmental conservation, the Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), in partnership with the Mount Merapi National Park (TNGM) Authority, conducted collaborative exploratory research to map the species diversity of foliose lichen in the TNGM region. Beyond enriching scientific data, this collaboration represents a concrete implementation of the UGM Faculty of Biology’s curriculum in producing excellent Bachelor of Science (S.Si.) graduates in Biology. Led by UGM Faculty of Biology lecturer Ludmilla Fitri Untari, S.Si., M.Si., the study involved three undergraduate students: Aan Nur Risla Wardana, Adha Nurkholifah, and Dwi Pramesti Wahyuningtias. The research aimed to reveal the species diversity of foliose lichen and examine the relationship between environmental factors and their abundance in the Mount Merapi area.

The study on foliose lichen comprised two main stages: field exploration and laboratory analysis, conducted from May to December 2026. Sampling was carried out on the southern slopes of Mount Merapi, specifically at Klangon Hill in the Cangkringan Resort and Deles Indah in the Kemalang Resort of Mount Merapi National Park (TNGM). These locations were chosen for their diverse mountain forest habitats, which offer high potential for foliose lichen growth. Field data collection utilized the cruising method paired with abiotic factor measurements, including light intensity, temperature, and air humidity. The collected specimens were subsequently identified at the Plant Systematics Laboratory, Faculty of Biology UGM, through morphological and anatomical characterization, simple spot testing for chemical compounds, and molecular-based identification.

This collaborative research also supports the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in education, biodiversity conservation, and academic partnerships. The activity aligns with SDG 4 – Quality Education, through student involvement in field research-based learning. Students gained hands-on experience in sampling, species identification, environmental parameter measurement, and ecological data analysis. The study further supports SDG 15 – Life on Land, by documenting foliose lichen diversity to enrich biodiversity data in the Mount Merapi region. This information is expected to serve as valuable supporting data for future research on terrestrial ecosystems and biodiversity conservation efforts. Additionally, the collaboration between lecturers and students reflects the spirit of SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals, demonstrating cooperation in research execution, scientific skill development, and strengthening academic contributions to environmental studies.

Yogyakarta, November 3, 2026 – The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), held a Guest Lecture featuring Dr. Erhan Yalçındağ from the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and the Division of Epidemiology, The Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, on Monday afternoon (2/11). Hosted at the Auditorium Biologi Tropika, Faculty of Biology UGM, the lecture carried the theme “Genetic Application in Biomedical Research: From Gen to Health and Animal Health – Tools, Insights and Real-World Applications.”

The event commenced with opening remarks by Prof. Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM. In his remarks, he expressed his appreciation for Dr. Erhan Yalçındağ’s visit and the opportunity to share research knowledge and experience with the Faculty of Biology UGM academic community.

During the lecture, Dr. Erhan Yalçındağ discussed the application of genetic approaches in biomedical and animal health research, with particular emphasis on non-invasive sampling strategies to support infectious disease surveillance. The presentation covered various sampling methods, the use of genetic markers, and genomic analysis approaches to identify and understand viral characteristics. One of the examples discussed was environmental surveillance of Avian Influenza Virus (AIV), including monitoring viral evolution, distribution patterns, and risk assessment. The application of Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) and Oxford Nanopore technologies was also highlighted as part of efforts to develop surveillance methods that provide more comprehensive genomic insights.

Beyond serving as a platform for knowledge exchange, the event also marked an initial step for the Faculty of Biology UGM in exploring potential research collaborations with University of Edinburgh. One of the key areas of interest for future collaboration is Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR). AMR remains a major global health challenge that requires strengthened research efforts, science-based approaches, and multidisciplinary collaboration to support prevention and control strategies.

Through this event, the Faculty of Biology UGM hopes that the knowledge exchange and academic connections established will lead to concrete collaborative initiatives, particularly in biomedical research, animal health, and AMR. This initiative also reflects the Faculty’s commitment to strengthening the internationalization of education and research while contributing to addressing global health challenges.

The event also contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) through strengthening health-related research, SDG 4 (Quality Education) through academic knowledge exchange, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through the development of international partnerships and research collaborations.

The Laboratory of Animal Structure and Developmental (SPH), Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), hosted an educational visit for 51 students from SMPIT Muhammadiyah An Najah, Klaten, accompanied by eight teachers, on Monday, October 26, 2026. This activity was organized as part of their Biology curriculum, specifically focusing on animal histology and anatomy through a hands-on laboratory practicum and direct observation.

The session began with opening remarks from the Head of the Laboratory, Dr. Ardaning Nuriliani, M.Kes. During the visit, the students had the opportunity to deepen their understanding of animal body structures and the relationship between the structure and function of organs through practical, experience-based learning. A key highlight was a dissection practicum involving tilapia, guided by 10 students from the Laboratory of Animal Structure and Development, ranging from undergraduate to master’s and doctoral levels. Through this exercise, the students were introduced to animal dissection procedures that adhere to the principles of animal welfare. Furthermore, the students studied the topography of the animal’s body and learned to identify the arrangement and location of various internal organs within the tilapia.

To further their understanding of animal body structures, the students also examined histological slides of several types of organs. This allowed them to identify the cellular and tissue components that make up these organs through microscopic observation. Consequently, biological concepts, previously studied only theoretically in the classroom became more tangible through direct observation and hands-on practical experience.

This initiative is expected to enhance the students’ knowledge, practical skills, and overall interest in Biology and the broader life sciences. These laboratory-based learning activities also serve as a form of support for achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4 Quality Education by providing contextual and interactive learning experiences that foster the development of students’ competencies.

Beyond the benefits for the students, these activities reflect the role of higher education institutions in supporting the educational process at the secondary school level. The collaboration between the Faculty of Biology, UGM and SMPIT Muhammadiyah An Najah Klaten is expected to strengthen partnerships between educational institutions and promote the sustainability of science-based educational programs. This effort aligns with SDG 17 Partnerships for the Goals, which emphasizes the importance of inter-institutional collaboration in supporting sustainable development. Through these educational initiatives, the Laboratory of Animal Developmental Structure at the Faculty of Biology, UGM, contributes to expanding access to applied science learning while strengthening the synergy between universities and schools to enhance the quality of education.

Contributors: Sefi Nur Anggaeni, S.Si. and Dr. Ardaning Nuriliani, S.Si., M.Kes.

Yogyakarta, 29 October 2026 – The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), welcomed a delegation from Curtin University, Australia, on Thursday (29 October) to explore opportunities for academic and research collaboration between the two institutions. The delegation consisted of Priya Saracik, Global Partnerships Consultant, and Dr. Hendra Gunosewoyo from Medicinal Chemistry, School of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Sciences, Curtin University.

The visit was received by Dr. Tri Rini Nuringtyas and Matin Nuhamunada, Ph.D. as Office of International Affairs Faculty of Biology. The meeting provided an opportunity for both institutions to introduce their respective academic and research strengths and identify potential areas for future collaboration.

Discussions on research collaboration highlighted two promising areas: natural products and biodiversity, and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). These areas offer opportunities to explore joint research initiatives by leveraging the complementary expertise and research capacities of both institutions. The collaboration is expected to foster interdisciplinary research and contribute to scientific advancements in biodiversity-based research and addressing global health challenges, particularly antimicrobial resistance.

In addition to research collaboration, both institutions also explored the possibility of establishing an undergraduate double-degree program for students enrolled in the International Undergraduate Program (IUP) in Biology and Biomedical Sciences. This initiative aims to expand international academic pathways, provide students with broader learning experiences, and strengthen the global competitiveness of graduates from both institutions.

The visit marks an important step toward establishing a stronger partnership between the Faculty of Biology UGM and Curtin University. Through continued discussions and follow-up initiatives, both institutions aim to translate these opportunities into concrete collaborative programs in education and research.

This initiative also contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) through research addressing antimicrobial resistance; SDG 4 (Quality Education) through the exploration of international double-degree opportunities; SDG 15 (Life on Land) through research on natural products and biodiversity; and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through strengthened international collaboration in education and research.

Yogyakarta, 28 October 2026 – The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), welcomed a delegation from Da-Yeh University (DYU), Taiwan, for an Information Session introducing academic collaboration opportunities between the two institutions. The session highlighted two programs: the 3+1+1 Bachelor-Master Fast Track Program in Biomedical Sciences and the INTENSE Program in Environmental Engineering.

The information session was delivered by Prof. Lee Shih-Chieh, Dean of the Office of Foreign Affairs, Da-Yeh University; Prof. Lin Yong-En, Director of the University Development Division, Da-Yeh University; and Aqilas Vierdan, Manager of the Office of International Affairs, Da-Yeh University. The delegation introduced the 3+1+1 Bachelor-Master Fast Track Program, which enables students to complete their bachelor’s degree in four years before pursuing a one-year master’s degree at Da-Yeh University. The program offers opportunities to earn an international master’s degree, access advanced learning and research facilities, develop international academic networks, and receive scholarship support based on academic performance and research publication achievements.

The delegation also presented the INTENSE Program, an industry-academia collaboration initiative supported by the Taiwanese government to develop international talent in response to industry needs. One of the programs relevant to the Faculty of Biology UGM is the Environmental Safety Engineering Practice Program for the Technology Industry under Environmental Engineering. The program offers various benefits, including scholarships, a monthly living allowance of at least NT$10,000 during the study period at DYU, and internship opportunities with a guaranteed minimum monthly salary of NT$28,000. Students may also gain employment opportunities with partner companies upon graduation.

Following the information session, the delegation participated in a discussion with the Faculty of Biology UGM leadership, attended by the Dean, Prof. Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc.; Dr. Tri Rini Nuringtyas; and Matin Nuhamunada, Ph.D., along with representatives from Taiwan Center Indonesia. The discussion focused on the technical implementation of the Fast Track and INTENSE programs, including academic arrangements and student participation mechanisms. Beyond educational collaboration, both institutions also explored opportunities to initiate joint research activities and develop academic mobility programs for students and academic staff from Da-Yeh University to the Faculty of Biology UGM.

This meeting marks an important step toward strengthening international collaboration between the Faculty of Biology UGM and Da-Yeh University, particularly in advancing higher education, research, and industry-oriented academic development. The initiative also contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) through expanded access to international learning opportunities; SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) through student capacity building and career opportunities; SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) through stronger academic-industry collaboration; and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through international partnerships in education and research.

Ain Sokhna, Egypt | October 21, 2026

The fifth day of the 3rd International Scientific Conference: One Health 2026, held at the Stella Di Mare Grand Hotel in Ain Sokhna, Egypt, featured active participation from students and faculty members of the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM). Organized by Badr University in Cairo (BUC), the conference brought together academics, researchers, and students from various countries to strengthen the One Health approach, which recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health.

During the Emerging Voices session, six UGM students from Indonesia presented their research topics alongside students from Leipzig University, Germany, and Badr University in Cairo, Egypt. The UGM student presenters included Natasyabrina (class of 2024), who discussed microplastics and heavy metal contamination in Indonesian coastal waters; Salma Farah Yumna (class of 2023), who presented on viruses affecting chili pepper plants; Amarthya Aulia Vadela (class of 2024), who addressed anthrax; Aditya Ilham Alim (class of 2024), who explored the potential of endophytic fungi in combating antimicrobial resistance; Muhammad Humam Rafi’i (class of 2024), who discussed African swine fever in babirusas in Sulawesi; and Nauval Rajwa Raysendra (class of 2023), who highlighted the potential applications of bacteriophages in biotechnology.

UGM faculty members also contributed to the scientific discussions. Dr. Sukirno presented on insect diversity and its relevance to One Health, while Dr. Dwi Sendi Priyono discussed the application of wildlife DNA forensics in supporting One Health initiatives in Indonesia during the Synergies & Systems session. Meanwhile, Prof. Budi Setiadi Daryono participated as a panelist in Panel Discussion 2: Innovations in One Health Training, contributing perspectives on the development of innovative approaches to One Health education and training.

This international academic engagement supports several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) through the advancement of integrated One Health approaches, SDG 4 (Quality Education) through student engagement and academic training, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals)through cross-border and interuniversity collaboration.

The participation of UGM students and faculty members is expected to further strengthen international academic networks, promote interdisciplinary knowledge exchange, and empower the next generation of scientists to become key contributors to the advancement of One Health initiatives in Indonesia.

Ain Sokhna, Egypt | October 20, 2026

Six students from the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), namely Natasyabrina, Salma Farah Yumna, Amarthya Aulia Vadela, Aditya Ilham Alim, Nauval Rajwaa Raysendria, and Muhammad Humam Rafi’i, participated in the activities of PROACT 2026 Winter School on October 20, 2026, at the Stella Di Mare Grand Hotel in Ain Sokhna, Egypt. The program also brought together exchange students from Leipzig University, Germany, and students from Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Egypt. The participation of students from different institutions and countries provided valuable opportunities to exchange knowledge, explore diverse academic perspectives, and establish international academic networks.

The program featured a series of interactive activities under the theme “Sand & Science: Interactive Field Operations,”including hands-on training with the Mobile Suitcase Lab, sessions on Virtual Reality (VR) and Artificial Intelligence (AI), and a demonstration of an AI-powered mosquito trap. These activities introduced participants to the application of emerging technologies in scientific research and their potential use in field-based operations.

In the evening, the program continued with the “Evening Forum: Meet the Professor.” This forum was designed to encourage direct interaction between students and professors through a shared dinner and informal academic discussions. Participants were encouraged to sit with students from different groups and countries, with at least one professor assigned to each table. This arrangement aimed to promote cross-cultural communication, expand academic networks, and provide students with opportunities to engage directly with experienced academics and researchers.

The fourth day’s activities also aligned with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Technology training and knowledge exchange supported SDG 4 (Quality Education) by promoting experiential learning and student competency development. The introduction of laboratory technologies, VR, and AI contributed to SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) by highlighting the importance of innovation and technological applications in scientific research. Meanwhile, the demonstration of an AI-powered mosquito trap was relevant to SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), as it introduced technologies with potential applications in disease vector surveillance. Interactions among students and academics from different countries also reflected SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by strengthening international academic networks and fostering opportunities for future collaboration.

Through PROACT 2026 Winter School, UGM Faculty of Biology students gained valuable opportunities to broaden their understanding of emerging technologies, enhance their cross-cultural communication skills, and establish international academic connections. These experiences are expected to contribute to their academic and professional development while encouraging future collaborations in biological sciences and interdisciplinary research.

Cairo, Egypt | October 19, 2026

Badr University in Cairo (BUC) officially opened the 3rd International Scientific Conference 2026, themed “One World, One Health,” at the BUC Conference Center on October 19, 2026. The opening day marked an important milestone in strengthening global cross-sectoral collaboration to address interconnected challenges in human, animal, and environmental health. The conference also contributed to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), by promoting integrated approaches to zoonotic disease prevention and global health.

The conference commenced with an opening session entitled “Vision to Action: Inaugurating the One Health Future,” led by Prof. Dr. Adel Abdelkhalek, Dean of Veterinary Medicine and Conference Chairman, followed by an introduction to the conference by Dr. Ahmed Abd El Wahed. The opening ceremony was attended by several distinguished figures, including Prof. Dr. Ashraf Elshihy, President of Badr University in Cairo; Dr. Hassan El-Kalla, Head of the Board of Trustees; Dr. Magdy Hassan from the Egyptian Veterinary Syndicate; Prof. Dr. Mohamed Saad from the General Organization for Veterinary Services; Dr. Heba Mahrous, representing the World Health Organization Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean (WHO-EMRO); and representatives of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).

As a demonstration of its commitment to strengthening international cooperation, in line with SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), the opening ceremony also marked the formal establishment of international collaborations between BUC and representatives from four countries: Uganda, Somalia, Indonesia, and Romania. In this occasion there was also a handover of the One Health Collaboration MoU between the Faculty of Biology UGM and Badr University in Cairo represented by Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M. Agr. Sc. This significant occasion was highlighted by the presentation of the International One Health Center Leadership Medals, the exchange of commemorative gifts, and a group photograph.

One of the highlights of the conference was the participation of Dr.rer.nat. Abdul Rahman Siregar, S.Si., M.Biotech., from the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), Indonesia, as one of the featured speakers in the panel discussion entitled “Borders & Boundaries: Global One Health Paradigms.” He joined a distinguished group of multidisciplinary experts from various countries, including Dr. Ahmed Abdulkadir Hassan (Somalia), Dr. Fatima Aldariweesh (Kuwait), Prof. Dr. Uwe Truyen (Germany), Prof. Dr. Daliborca-Cristina Vlad (Romania), Dr. Heba Mahrous (WHO-EMRO), and Prof. Ioan Pet (Romania). The interactive discussion highlighted the importance of transcending geographical boundaries and strengthening international collaboration to address emerging global health threats through integrated One Health strategies.

During the afternoon session, the conference shifted its focus toward translating scientific research into practical solutions through a session entitled “Translating Science to Solutions.” Prof. Hyung Wook Kwon (South Korea) presented innovative artificial intelligence (AI)-based mosquito trapping and screening technologies, while Prof. Qigai He (China) shared strategies for commercializing scientific discoveries into practical products. These efforts to translate research into real-world applications reflected the objectives of SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) by promoting technological advancement and innovation. The session was followed by an industrial innovation presentation by IFT Corporation, as well as poster exhibitions and sponsor showcases during the lunch break.

The subsequent session, “Synergies & Systems: Expanding the Global One Health Network,” featured presentations highlighting One Health initiatives and collaborative networks across different countries. These included a presentation by Prof. Dr. Tri Wibawa from Universitas Gadjah Mada, Indonesia, entitled “One Health Initiatives in Indonesia,”, Prof. Dr. Ahmad Hamedy (Germany), who discussed food hygiene practices, and Prof. Yahya Dieye (Senegal), who presented disease prevention networks in Africa. Toward the conclusion of the academic sessions, “BUC Frontiers”showcased recent scientific breakthroughs and research achievements from Badr University in Cairo.

The first day of the conference officially concluded with the announcement of poster exhibition winners, the presentation of certificates to local participants, and a group photograph featuring all participating delegations. Through its diverse scientific sessions and international knowledge exchange, the conference not only strengthened academic understanding and research collaboration in support of SDG 4 (Quality Education) but also expanded international partnerships aimed at building resilient and sustainable global health systems.

Saturday, October 17, 2026 | Cairo, Egypt

On Saturday, October 17, 2026, six students from the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), participated in an academic visit to the Veterinary Serum and Vaccine Research Institute (VSVRI) in Cairo, Egypt. The visit was part of the ProAct Summer School and the One Health One World Conference, held at Badr University in Cairo (BUC), as part of a DAAD-funded initiative promoting intercontinental academic collaboration.

The visit also involved six students from the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Leipzig University, Germany, accompanied by faculty members from both countries. The UGM delegation was accompanied by Dr. Sukirno, S.Si., M.Sc., Dr.rer.nat. Abdul Rahman Siregar, S.Si., M.Biotech., Dr. Dwi Sendi Priyono, S.Si., from the Faculty of Biology, and Prof. dr. Tri Wibawa, Ph.D., Sp.M.K. (K), representing UGM One Health collaboration center..

The visit aimed to broaden students’ knowledge and understanding of veterinary vaccine production, covering the entire process from initial development to the final product. During the visit, students had the opportunity to observe two vaccine production approaches: the production of inactivated whole-pathogen vaccines for foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) and embryonated egg-based vaccine production for avian influenza.

UGM Faculty of Biology students, together with students from Germany and accompanying faculty members, during their academic visit to VSVRI, Cairo, Egypt (October 17, 2026).

The visit began with a presentation by the Director of VSVRI, who introduced the institute’s profile, research areas, and strategic role in supporting the prevention and control of animal diseases through vaccine research, development, and production.

The Director of VSVRI presents an overview of the institute and its activities before the tour of the vaccine production facilities in Cairo, Egypt (October 17, 2026).

Following the introductory session, participants were given the opportunity to visit two vaccine production facilities. The first visit focused on the production of inactivated whole-pathogen vaccines. During this session, participants learned about the various stages of vaccine production, from the use of pathogens as starting materials and the inactivation process to product quality control. They also gained insights into the importance of standardized production procedures in ensuring the safety, quality, and efficacy of the vaccines produced.

The visit continued to the embryonated egg-based vaccine production facility. At this facility, participants learned how embryonated eggs are used as biological systems for viral propagation, particularly for avian influenza viruses, in the production of vaccines designed to prevent diseases in poultry. In addition to understanding the production stages, participants gained valuable insights into various technical aspects, including the control of production conditions and quality assurance measures necessary to maintain vaccine safety and quality.

Through this academic visit, students gained valuable learning experiences that bridged theoretical knowledge acquired in the classroom with the practical application of technology in the vaccine industry, particularly in veterinary medicine. The visit further enhanced their understanding of microbiology, virology, immunology, and biotechnology while broadening their perspectives on the contribution of biological sciences to the development of sustainable health technologies.

This activity aligns with the One Health approach, which recognizes human, animal, and environmental health as interconnected and interdependent. Furthermore, it contributes to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), by strengthening disease prevention efforts and advancing animal health technologies, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), by fostering international partnerships and academic collaboration.