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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Yogyakarta, Indonesia – July 31, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

On Friday, July 28 2023, the Genetic Engineering Research Center of the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) held a Friday Scientific Sharing Seminar Series 20. During the event, Faculty of Biology had the opportunity to promote the Postgraduate Study Program offered by the Faculty of Biology UGM to the community and researchers BRIN. The event was held through a zoom meeting platform and was attended by Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Cooperation, and Alumni Affairs, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc. and Head of the Doctoral Study Program, Dr. Endah Retnaningrum, M.Eng. from the Faculty of Biology, Head of the BRIN Genetic Engineering Research Center, Dr. Ratih Asmana N.Dr. Ratih, and colleagues and researchers from BRIN.

The event was opened with remarks by the Head of the Research Center for Genetic Engineering BRIN, Dr. Ratih Asmana N. Dr. Ratih said that this seminar was a form of cooperation with the Faculty of Biology in terms of education. Besides that, Dr. Ratih also said that there had been a lot of cooperation in the research sector between BRIN and the Faculty of Biology and it was hoped that this would develop into further collaborations in the future.

Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Cooperation, and Alumni Affairs, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc. presented a presentation on the profile of the Faculty of Biology. He conveyed history, achievements and facilities at the Faculty of Biology UGM. The Faculty of Biology has also obtained international accreditation for the Undergraduate and Masters programs and is targeted to immediately obtain international accreditation for the Doctoral program. Dr. Eko also said that the Faculty of Biology is quite competitive in the international arena and has built cooperation both domestically and abroad to optimize the learning programs held.

The next presentation was given by the Head of the Doctoral Study Program Faculty of Biology, Dr. Endah Retnaningrum, M.Eng. related to the Doctoral Study Program, both regular and by research schemes. Dr. Endah conveyed that the by research scheme is a good opportunity to continue education without being limited to remote locations and can be implemented at each work institution. She then explained the structure of the curriculum used, the distribution of courses for both regular and by research schemes as well as registration requirements.

The presentation about postgraduate study program was welcomed by colleagues from BRIN and it is hoped that it will also be a good opportunity to continue educational and research collaboration between BRIN and the Faculty of Biology.

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.