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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Friday, July 21^st 2023, Universitas Gadjah Mada held a Workshop on SDGs for Internal Capacity Development: UGM Towards a Sustainable Campus at the Lotus Ballroom, Artotel Suites Bianti, Yogyakarta. The event was attended by representatives from various UGM working units including from Faculty of Biology represented by Mukhlis Jamal Musa Holle, S.Sc., M.Env.Sc., D.Phil. The event began with remarks by the Vice Chancellor for Education and Teaching Universitas Gadjah Mada, Prof. Dr. Wening Udasmoro, S.S., M. Hum., DEA. Prof. Wening explained the importance of the contribution of universities and their academic community in realizing the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) which have been promoted by the United Nations since 2015. Anticipation needs to be done to ensure that life in the future will avoid crises including the food crisis, extreme climate change and so on. UGM in the management of the SDGs is also got 2^nd ranked in Indonesia and will continue to be developed. Prof. Wening also explained the importance of active data collection and publication to media so that activities carried out at UGM can be exposed to the wider community.

Further remarks were given by the Head of Quality and Reputation Assurance of Universitas Gadjah Mada, Dr. L. Hartanto Nugroho. He explained that contributions for SDGs can be made in small ways and small changes can have a big impact. A simple example in terms of segregating waste in a university environment, it must be carried out systematically and massively and involve all components and the academic community at the university.

The workshop continued with a general presentation by Prof. Dr. Puji Astuti, S.Si., M.Sc., Apt. and Ir. Sentagi Sesotya Utami, St., M.Sc., Ph.D. They explained that the most important aspects of the 17 SDGs are the environment and human sustainability. University ranking in terms of SDGs is not the main thing to achieve, but the ranking is a form of measurement for achievements or activities that have been carried out. UGM also supports sustainability in university governance from the aspects of ecosystems and the environment as well as human sustainability. This can be seen in the policies and regulations issued by UGM. The principles of sustainability or campus sustainability applied at UGM include energy conservation, waste management, water conservation, and eco-friendly transportation. In addition, the achievements of the activities carried out need to be balanced with massive publications so that they can be heard outside the university.

The workshop continued with Forum Group Discussions (FGDs) where participants were divided into 4 categories: Medicines, Agro and Life Science, Social Science, and Art and Humanities. Discussions focused on implementing the SDGs in their respective work units, SWOT analysis, plans for follow-up activities and plans for publication of SDGs achievements. In the discussion, representatives of the Faculty of Biology who included in Agro and Life Science category explained what activities had taken place at the Faculty of Biology and presentation ideas regarding the implementation of SDG No. 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG No. 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). Some of the components of the discussion include how programs play a role in overcoming food insecurity for the academic community and the general public, interventions for dealing with food insecurity, publication of sustainability reports, waste management, to how each work unit can represent research or activities carried out at the work unit level as part of the SDGs.

The workshop ended with closing and a reminder of how important everyone’s role is in realizing the SDGs, especially at the university level. It is hoped that this activity can be a trigger for the implementation of the SDGs and better publications at Universitas Gadjah Mada.

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crimes (UNODC) through UNODC’s Global Program on Crimes that Affect the Environment in collaboration with TRACE Wildlife Forensics Network will conduct an analysis for Wildlife Forensics where the team invites Laos, Indonesia and Malaysia to assess forensic capacity in the area. The results will be used to support the improvement of Wildlife forensic capabilities and the improvement of these wildlife forensic services. On Monday, 17 July 2023, at the KPTU Meeting Room of Faculty of Biology UGM, UNODC and TRACE representatives visited Faculty of Biology UGM to discuss condition and potential for Wildlife Forensics in Indonesia. The meeting was attended by Vice Dean of Faculty of Biology UGM for Research, Community Service, Cooperation, and Alumni Affairs, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., Head of Office of International Affairs, Faculty of Biology UGM, Dr.rer.nat. Abdul Rahman Siregar, S.Si., M.Biotech, and Lecturer from the Animal Systematics Laboratory, Donan Satria Yudha, S.Si., M.Sc., and Dr. Dwi Sendi Priyono, S.Si., Kelly Morgan as TRACE Manager for Southeast Asia Program, Amanda Lightson as UNODC Technical Officer in Sabah, Malaysia, and Dwi W. Adhiasto, Consultant for Wildlife Conservation and Criminal Justice.

The meeting began with an opening and a brief introduction to the Faculty of Biology by the Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Cooperation, and Alumni Affairs. The introduction is about history, facilities, and focus of education at Faculty of Biology UGM.

The meeting was then followed by a presentation by Donan Satria Yudha, S.Si., M.Sc. which explains Wildlife Forensics, especially Anatomy and Forensic Morphology. The Faculty of Biology has an Animal Systematics Laboratory and a Biology Museum which has collections of vertebrate fauna skeletons that can be used to support forensic anatomy and morphology. Not only skeletons, but also taxidermy collections of various vertebrate fauna species. He also explained activities related to Wildlife Forensics that have been carried out including Capacity Building such as Integrated Training on Handling Wildlife Circulation in the Maluku Islands, Training and Technical Guidance for Collection and Preservation of Anatomical and Morphological Samples for Research. The Capacity Building involved various parties from the Regional Police and Local Resorts. District Court and the Attorney General’s Office, to institutions that support conservation. He has also been involved and collaborated with the Police several times regarding the identification of protected wild animals including Jakarta National Police’s Criminal Investigation Unit, Central Java Regional Police’s Criminal Investigation Directorate and the Bantul District Prosecutor’s Office, to become an expert witness in trials at the Bantul District Court regarding wildlife trade.

Next, Dr. Dwi Sendi Priyono explained Wildlife Forensics especially for Wildlife DNA Forensics. Capacity Building related to collection techniques and preservation of confiscated samples for DNA analysis which was attended by forest rangers, NGOs and various related institutions. The training was conducted so that staff in the field have the ability to handle confiscated samples in the field before they are sent to the laboratory. This aims to minimize contamination and degradation of DNA material. Dr. Sendi also explained that many confiscated components had been identified based on their Forensics DNA. He worked closely with the Police to identify samples in the form of animal bones, tails, fingers and nails. Dr. Sendi also explained the problems of field staff who had difficulty identifying species which could lead to misidentification, so a guide was made to minimize the misidentification errors. Another problem is the limited tools such as PCR in the Animal Systematics laboratory for identification of DNA samples so that the investigation and identification process cannot be carried out quickly. This tool is an important part because forensic needs are very immediate, confidential, and minimal contamination, and there is no standard animal identification protocol.

After the discussion and presentation, representatives from TRACE and UNODC visited the Animal Systematics Laboratory at the Faculty of Biology to see the skeletal coccyx and taxidermy of the vertebrate fauna there.

This meeting is an opportunity for good cooperation between Faculty of Biology and UNODC and related institutions that focus on wildlife conservation and forensics. It is hoped that this meeting will be useful for the development of Wildlife Forensics in Indonesia.

[Yogyakarta, Indonesia, July 18, 2023] — The Faculty of Biology at Gadjah Mada University (UGM) proudly announced the successful virtual opening of the 6th International Summer Course in Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development, held on Monday, July 17, 2023. The esteemed event was inaugurated by Vice Dean Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc. and Chairwoman Dr. Nur Indah Septriani, M.Sc., showcasing the commitment and dedication of UGM towards advancing knowledge in the field of biodiversity and sustainability.

The virtual opening ceremony commenced with an engaging introduction and pre-departure presentation delivered by Mukhlish Jamal M. H., D.Phil., who provided valuable insights and prepared the participants for the enriching journey that lay ahead. This event set the stage for the 72 participants hailing from seven different universities: UGM, UTHM, NTU, UTAR, Kasertsart University, UPLB, and Chiba University. Their diverse backgrounds and shared passion for tropical biodiversity and sustainable development promise an intellectually stimulating and collaborative experience.

During the opening, Vice Dean Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., expressed his enthusiasm and shared his vision for the summer course. “We are delighted to inaugurate the 6th International Summer Course in Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development, which represents our ongoing commitment to fostering global collaborations in research and education. This course provides an exceptional platform for participants to exchange knowledge, build networks, and explore innovative solutions for pressing environmental challenges. We hope this course will inspire and empower the participants to become future leaders in the field.”

The participants themselves have exhibited tremendous enthusiasm and eagerness to embark on this transformative journey. They recognize the significance of the summer course in broadening their understanding of tropical biodiversity and sustainable development, and are eager to apply the knowledge gained to effect positive change in their respective communities.

“The opportunity to participate in this summer course is truly invaluable,” said one of the enthusiastic participants. “We are grateful to the Faculty of Biology at Gadjah Mada University for organizing this event and bringing together experts and peers from different universities. We look forward to engaging in insightful discussions, collaborating on research projects, and forging lifelong connections with like-minded individuals.”

The 6th International Summer Course in Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development promises to be a resounding success, with participants ready to explore the fascinating world of tropical biodiversity, exchange ideas, and contribute to sustainable development. As the summer course unfolds, it will undoubtedly foster a spirit of camaraderie, innovation, and a renewed dedication to preserving our planet’s precious ecosystems.

On Friday, July 7, 2023, the Biolecture Series #24 was held as part of the regular webinar activities organized by the Faculty of Biology, Gadjah Mada University (UGM). The event focused on the theme “Physiology, Cultivation Techniques, Pest and Disease Control of Potato Plants” and was attended by 52 enthusiastic participants with a keen interest in agricultural development.

The webinar featured three expert speakers in their respective fields. The first speaker was Prof. Dr. Kumala Dewi, M.Sc.St., from the Plant Physiology Laboratory, Faculty of Biology, UGM. She presented on the topic of “Physiology of Potato Plants (Solanum tuberosum L.)” with the aim of understanding the physiology of potato plants and the factors that influence their growth and development, such as potato seeds, temperature, light, soil type, humidity, and nutrition.

The second speaker, Miftahul Huda, S.P., from Nusantara Farming Indonesia, discussed “Potato Seedling: Potentials and Challenges.” In his presentation, Miftahul Huda explained the strategies and technological advancements in potato seedling cultivation, as well as the challenges faced in potato farming, including the issues of Plant Pests and Diseases (PPD) that pose a major challenge in potato cultivation.

The final session was presented by Iswadi Prasetyo from PT. Corteva Agriscience, who addressed “Control of Major Pests and Diseases in Potato Plants.” Iswadi Prasetyo discussed effective pesticide application techniques for controlling pests and diseases in potato plants, emphasizing the importance of proper pest and disease management practices to ensure optimal growth and harvest yields.

The webinar took place from 08:30 AM to 11:00 AM (WIB) and was moderated by Dr. Siti Nurbaiti, S.Si., a young lecturer at the Faculty of Biology, UGM. Following the presentations by the speakers, a discussion and question-and-answer session provided participants with the opportunity to interact directly with the speakers and gain a deeper understanding of the topics discussed.

The event was concluded by Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., the Dean of the Faculty of Biology, UGM, who expressed his gratitude and appreciation to the speakers for their informative presentations and exceptional experiences, which contributed to the understanding of fundamental science and plant physiology in potato cultivation techniques and PPD control strategies.

“On this date, the Biolecture is celebrating its third anniversary. Hopefully, the Biolecture activities will continue to develop and serve as a source of knowledge and insights for all of us,” expressed Prof. Budi, expressing his hope for the ongoing success of the Biolecture activities.

The event is expected to provide significant benefits for the development of the agricultural sector, particularly in potato cultivation in Indonesia.

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