The Entomology Laboratory of the Faculty of Biology, Gadjah Mada University held a guest lecture entitled “Baculovirus for Integrated Pest Management.” The event took place in the Upper Meeting Room of Building A and was moderated by Aryo Seto Pandu Wiranto, S.Si., M.Sc. The event was held on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, starting with remarks from Drs. Hari Purwanto, M.P., Ph.D., as the Head of the Entomology Laboratory of the Faculty of Biology. He emphasized the importance of innovative pest control strategies in increasing agricultural productivity and ensuring food security.

The event continued with the presentation of material by Prof. Said Ali Eid Elsalamouny from Cairo University, Egypt. Prof. Said delivered an in-depth presentation on the importance of using microbes, especially entomopathogenic viruses, as pest control agents in agriculture. He explained that several genera of viruses, such as Alphabaculovirus and Betabaculovirus, can effectively target pests from the order Lepidoptera, which includes many agricultural pests. Prof. Said also explained the use of Gammabaculovirus to control pests from the order Hymenoptera and Deltabaculovirus to control pests from the order Diptera. His presentation emphasized the potential of these viruses in the integrated pest management (IPM) system, which is very important for sustainable agriculture.

One of the highlights of the lecture was Prof. Said’s discussion on the mechanism of virus isolation from Olive Leaf Moth larvae, Palpita vitrealis. He explained the identification process consisting of direct observation of symptoms, observation using light and electron microscopes, and molecular techniques. This research resulted in the identification of a new type of Nucleopolyhedrovirus. To increase the effectiveness of Baculovirus as a biocontrol agent, Prof. Said explained several important factors that need to be considered, namely observation of insect behavior, timeliness in Baculovirus application, use of feeding stimulants, UV protectants, ensuring the right concentration, use of surfactants and adhesives. These factors are very important to maximize the impact of Baculovirus in pest control.

The material delivery session ended with a Q&A session, where participants actively interacted with Prof. Said, seeking further insights into the practical application of Baculovirus in agriculture. The guest lecture was closed with a group photo and participants left the event with renewed enthusiasm, understanding the important role of innovative pest control strategies in achieving food security and environmental sustainability. This event not only demonstrated progress in the field of Entomology but also strengthened the commitment of the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada to contribute to the global goals of sustainable development, especially in the field of agriculture to prevent hunger (SDG 2) and a healthy and prosperous life (SDG 3) and safe for the environment (SDG 15).

On August 7, 2024, the Faculty of Biology held The Campus Induction for New Students of the Biodiversity Curator Professional Program (PKKH) for the Odd Semester of the 2024/2025 Academic Year. This event was attended by the Faculty Management, Lecturers, Laboratory Heads, and 18 new students of the PKKH program who participated in person or virtually. The event was opened by the Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs, Dr. Bambang Retnoaji, S.Si., M.Sc., who introduced the course lecturers and laboratory heads of the Faculty of Biology. The event continued with remarks from the Dean of the Faculty of Biology, Prof. Dr. Budi S. Daryono, M.Agr.Sc, who attended virtually. Prof. Budi expressed his hope that the PKKH program alumni would be ready to face the challenges of the workforce and contribute positively to biodiversity management.

The presentation session featured a speaker from BRIN, Prof. Dr. Ocky Karna Radjasa, M.Sc., who spoke on the theme “Challenges of Marine Biodiversity Curation.” He emphasized that Indonesia, as a global center of marine abundance and diversity, particularly with the Coral Triangle Initiative, holds the highest coral diversity in the world. This diversity necessitates expertise in managing it, such as scientific diving and biodiversity curation.

The Head of the PKKH Study Program, Rina Sri Kasiamdari, S.Si., Ph.D., explained that the goal of the PKKH program is to produce expert biodiversity curators who are excellent in their field, confident, professional, culturally aware, creative, innovative, collaborative, and embody the values of Pancasila for the welfare of the nation and country. This program also aims to expand opportunities for academics and practitioners to receive excellent professional curator education to develop competencies in collection planning, collection gathering and documentation, collection analysis, and collection care. This aligns with SDG 4, which ensures inclusive and equitable quality education and promotes lifelong learning opportunities for all. It also mentioned that the duration of the PKKH program is two semesters (1 year), with a total of 36 credits, divided into classroom lectures (36.1%) and practical/practicum sessions (63.9%).

The Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Cooperation, and Alumni Affairs, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., discussed the Indonesia Biologist Association (IBA), an organization that serves to unite, guide, and empower biologists in Indonesia and plays a role in enhancing the role of biologists as professional biologists, agents of change, and agents of development in the field of biology. The PKKH program is the first of its kind in Indonesia and Asia and the second in the world after Cambridge University.

The Coordinator of Academic Affairs and Student Affairs, Emi Dwi Suryanti, S.Si., M.Sc., provided material on Simaster, the system used for the learning process. The event concluded with a tour to the Biology Campus, guided by Ardita Tri Anugrah Budaya, S.Si.

Yogyakarta, 30 July 2024 – The series of activities for The 7th International Summer Course in Sustainable Development: Sustainable Bioprospecting of Tropical Biodiversity continues after the opening and lecture series which took place last Monday (29/7). The activity continued with a cultural trip and workshop which lasted from morning to evening.

At least 33 participants were enthusiastic about visiting the first destination, the Ngayogyakarta Sultanate Palace. Kraton Ngayogyakarta Hadiningrat is the official palace of the sultanate located in the center of the Special Region of Yogyakarta. The participants toured the palace area which consists of three parts; the front complex of the palace, the core complex and the rear complex of the palace. In this area, participants who come from various countries learn Javanese culture, especially Yogyakarta, which is still preserved today, starting from building architecture, royal systems, clothing, to ceremonies, and so on.

The second destination is the Sonobudoyo Museum, which is located in the same area as the Sultan Palace. Sonobuyono Museum is the museum with the most complete collection of Javanese artifacts in Indonesia, after the National Museum in Jakarta. The collection consists of ceramics from the Neolithic era, bronze crafts, a collection of wayang, keris and masks.

The journey continues to the Bantul area, DIY, to be precise at the Monggo Chocolate Museum and Factory, a premium local chocolate product that has been around for decades. The participants learned the techniques and processes for processing chocolate from beans to ready-to-eat chocolate products. Uniquely, Monggo Chocolate was founded by a Belgian citizen, Thierry, based on the lack of good quality chocolate products in Indonesia, even though Indonesia is a country that produces cocoa which is the main raw material for famous chocolates in Europe. This anxiety makes Monggo Chocolate one of Indonesia’s most popular chocolate products.

The participants then took part in a chocolate workshop at Cokelat Monggo. Each had the opportunity to make their own chocolate to take home. It is hoped that this workshop program and introduction to chocolate processing will provide new knowledge to participants regarding the bioprospection of cocoa fruit into processed chocolate with high economic value.

Yogyakarta, 2 August 2024 – The 7th International Summer Course in Sustainable Development: Sustainable Bioprospecting of Tropical Biodiversity in 2024 has finished. The closing of the Faculty of Biology UGM’s annual agenda was held at Padiku Coffee and Eatery, Sleman, Yogyakarta, attended by Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc. as Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration and Alumni Affairs as well as General Chair of the ISC Program, Mukhlis Jamal Musa Holle, M.Eng.Env., D.Phil. as Chief Executive of ISC, all lecturers and organizing committee, as well as summer course participants who have completed a series of summer courses both online and offline.

Participants from each university and country took turns presenting testimonials and experiences throughout the summer course. They expressed their appreciation and enjoyable experiences during the summer course series, especially the offline and field agendas which provided new experiences for those from different countries. Appreciation awards were then given to participants who actively participated in the activities.

The screening of the compilation video for the 7th International Summer Course in Sustainable Development agenda was then held. The participants were enthusiastic about reminiscing about the series of activities they went through together.

Mukhlis Jamal Musa Holle, M.Eng.Env., D.Phil. as Chief Executive of ISC expressed his thanks to all participants who had taken part in the summer course activities until completion. It is hoped that this summer course can be an enjoyable experience and become a forum for various experiences and stories.

Dr. Eko expressed his appreciation for the implementation of this year’s summer course, starting from the online and offline lecture agenda, exploring local culture such as the Sultan Palace and Sonobudoyo museum, various trainings, to exploring the beach and studying local bioprospecting products. The International Summer Course held by the Faculty of Biology UGM has reached its 7th year. It is hoped that in the future there will be many innovations and wider collaboration with various world universities.

Greetings from Dr. Eko also closed the ISC this year. The implementation of ISC cannot be separated from the contributions of various parties, participants and resource persons from various universities and countries, presenting themes according to their scientific fields. It is hoped that ISC can become a forum for various and expand collaboration and sustainable knowledge.

According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), 149 million children worldwide suffer from stunting. This condition can lead to high mortality rates, low Intelligence Quotient (IQ) and immune system function, and an increased risk of various metabolic syndromes. One effort to prevent stunting is by providing beneficial macro and micronutrients for child development. These nutrients can be obtained through superfoods, nutrient-dense foods that support health derived from bioactive compounds found in fruits and vegetables. However, the availability of superfoods faced many challenges. Therefore an alternative to superfoods is needed.

Euglena is a candidate for superfood because it is safe for human consumption and can thrive in various environmental conditions. It produces essential amino acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), and bioactive metabolites. Unfortunately, its metabolite production is lower than superfoods, necessitating a polyploidization to enhance metabolite production. Naturally, Euglena only produces about 44 micrograms/milligrams of polyunsaturated acid, 47% amino acids, and approximately 100 mg of paramylon.

Addressing this issue, five UGM students from different disciplines—Novia Noor Rachmawati (Biology 2020), Tiara Amelia Putri (Biology 2020), Haris Dwi Nugroho (Biology 2021), Sabrina Gita Pramesti (Chemistry 2021), and Tabina Amanda Aurelia Surya (Chemical Engineering 2022)—are exploring the potential of a stunting-preventing superfood from local Euglena sp. microalgae. They employ colchicine-induced polyploidy genetic breeding methods to alter the organism’s chromosome set. The students are part of UGM Student Creativity Program (PKM) in the Exact Sciences Research category, under the guidance of Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc.

Novia explained, “We use the polyploidization process because it can enhance the expression of functional genes and consistently pass down its mutated characteristics to subsequent generations. Therefore, we analyzed the performance, ploidy level, and metabolomic study of colchicine-mutated local Euglena sp. as an alternative source of essential amino acids and value-added bioproducts.”

Haris revealed that the Euglena sp. model was sourced from Dieng, Central Java, with concentration variations from 0% to 5% and an induction time of 24 hours. The goal is to obtain polyploid Euglena with improved morphology, DNA concentration, ploidy level performance, and amino acid and metabolite profiles.

Sabrina, who comes from a different scientific background than the other members, explained that an effective treatment to induce chromosomal ploidy mutations in Euglena sp. at a 1% concentration increases ploidy levels, carbohydrate production, paramylon, chlorophyll, carotenoids, and three essential amino acids (L-lysine, L-leucine, and L-histidine).

Novia, the team leader, added that further testing of the concentrations of each treatment showed an increase in amino acids, particularly in the essential amino acids L-Lysine, L-Leucine, and L-Histidine, which had the highest concentrations. These essential amino acids play a crucial role in preventing stunting as they function in bone development, immune system enhancement, and red blood cell formation. “We hope this research will be beneficial and contribute to the development of genetic modification in Euglena sp., adding to the body of knowledge on microalgae biotechnology, and positioning Euglena sp. as a high-value alternative protein bioproduct,” concluded Novia.

Yogyakarta, 2 August 2024 – The last day of the agenda for The 7th International Summer Course in Sustainable Development: Sustainable Bioprospecting of Tropical Biodiversity in 2024, participants toured one of the tourist villages in Yogyakarta, the Nglanggeran Tourism Village, Patuk, Gunung Kidul.

The agenda at Nglanggeran Tourism Village begins with a brief explanation regarding the tourist village. Nglanggeran Tourism Village is one of the Best Tourism Villages in the world level Tourism Village awards organized by the world tourism body UNWTO (United Nation World Tourism Organization) with the concept of CBT or Community Based Tourism. The main attraction of this tourist village is the existence of the Ancient Volcano, so besides carrying the concept of a community-based agricultural tourist village, the Nglanggeran Tourism Village is also a place for tourism and geological studies by experts. Nglanggeran itself is also one of the Geosites in the Gunung Sewu UNESCO Global Geopark area, which is included in the International Geopark network.

The participants then had the opportunity to learn one of the crafts made from coconut leaves or “janur”. Janur is a leaf that is commonly used as a craft in various ceremonies and celebrations in Indonesia, culinary delights such as ketupat or used in traditional games. This time, summer course participants learned to make keris crafts from janur. The keris itself is a typical Javanese weapon and this keris craft is widely used in traditional games and ceremonies. All participants were enthusiastic about folding and making these crafts.

The next agenda is to visit the cocoa plantation and cultivation area. The plantation area is a community-owned plantation that is integrated into the Nglanggeran Tourism Village tourism program so that participants learn directly about the cultivation and processing of cocoa fruit from local farmers who are members of the Nglanggeran Village POKDARWIS (Tourism Awareness Group). The participants were enthusiastic about listening to and seeing firsthand the cocoa cultivation process after previously visiting the chocolate factory at Cokelat Monggo last Tuesday (30/7).

After learning about cocoa cultivation, participants were invited to visit a goat farm managed by the local community. There, participants were invited to participate in feeding goats and learn directly about goat milking techniques. Participants then visited a factory that processes goat’s milk into powdered milk and other products such as soap and goat’s milk chips.

Ending the trip in Nglanggeran Village, the participants explored the Nglanggeran Embung, an artificial lake that functions as a rainwater reservoir and is used to irrigate plantations in the dry season.
The 7th International Summer Course in Sustainable Development: Sustainable Bioprospecting of Tropical Biodiversity ended with a closing, taking place at Rumah Makan Padiku. Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc. expressed his appreciation to all participants and committees who have participated in a series of online and offline summer course activities. It is hoped that this activity will continue as an effort to expand networks in the international arena as well as various experiences and understanding in the world of biology.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a bone disease that affects various joints, including the knee joint, and is a leading cause of morbidity, physical activity limitations, and disability. OA caused by multiple factors, and current treatment for knee OA primarily relies on pharmacological drugs such as analgesics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which can cause side effects and dependency. Surgery is the most effective treatment method, but not all patients are eligible for this procedure.

Addressing these issues, under the guidance of Drh. Retno Murwanti, M.P., Ph.D., the PKM-RE Peek a Boo team, led by Rima Arvisya Natania Putri (Biology 2022) along with Regina Nilamsari, Reny Ras Ninta Br Tarigan, Widha Nur Yuliharjanti, and Felicia Averine, developed a therapy to prevent OA using nanoemulsions derived from fermented Kara Benguk bean (M. pruriens) extract.

Rima explained that Kara Benguk beans are an underutilized local Indonesian commodity. These beans contain flavonoids, alkaloids, phenols, and terpenoids, which can help prevent the formation and progression of OA. Kara Benguk beans and tempeh collected from Kulon Progo Regency and processed into a control extract, a fermented Kara Benguk bean extract utilizing L. plantarum and L. casei, and a Kara Benguk tempeh extract. After testing for antioxidant activity and total flavonoid content, the Kara Benguk tempeh extract was selected as the raw material for the nanoemulsion.

Following organoleptic tests and effectiveness studies of the Kara Benguk nanoemulsion, it was found that concentrations of 100mg/mL, 200mg/mL, and 400mg/mL were significantly effective in preventing OA. The Team hopes that the results of this research will enhance the utility of Kara Benguk beans through the standardization and development of nanoemulsions for OA prevention and serve as the latest source of information on the use of Kara Benguk beans for OA therapy.

The second day of the PIONIR Metamorphoself 2024 took place on Thursday, August 1, 2024, featuring a variety of engaging activities and performances. Under the theme Bioadaptability: Realizing a Generation of Pioneer Innovators for the Nation, the activities were designed to shape the character of young biologists as agents of change through inspiration, innovation, and collaboration. The activity opened by Angga Firza and Birrul Qisty as Masters of Ceremony began with the Celebration Jingle Dance at 7:30 AM WIB.

The activity began with grouping the young biologists into four Action of Biologist groups: Functional Biology, Environmental Biology and Biodiversity, Medical Biology, and Molecular Biology and Biotechnology. Following this grouping, the Tour de Faculty began at 7:50 AM WIB. During this tour, students received presentations from various laboratories they visited. The Tour de Faculty intended to introduce them to the facilities of the Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada. After the tour, the young biologists continued their activities in the auditorium, where they received clues for the Actions of Biologists activities according to their previously assigned groups. Each group would solve the clues and discuss them among themselves. The young biologists representative then presented their creativity through posters.

The next session started at 12:30 PM with talks from the Health Promoting University (HPU) Campaign and the Sharia Bank, moderated by Mrs. Titin Fauziah, S.E., M.B.A. The HPU presentation was delivered by Dwi Umi Siswanti, S.Si., M.Sc., and Yudhistira Adi Perdana, M.Psi., Psychologist of the Faculty of Biology at UGM. This presentation aimed to provide knowledge and information about the roles and facilities offered by HPU. The Sharia Bank presentation was delivered by Ana Murtiati, S.TP., discussing the facilities provided by BSI to avoid online loans. The session concluded with a discussion session.

After the talk, the young biologists participated in a KRS (Course Registration System) simulation guided by Angga Firza and Birrul Qisty, assisted by Mrs. Emi Dwi Suryanti, S.Si., M.Sc., the Coordinator of Academics and Student Affairs. Next was an introduction to all Study Groups/Organizations within the Faculty of Biology at UGM. This introduction featured profile videos and a fashion show by each Study Group/Organization, showcasing their respective symbols, including the Student Executive Board (BEM), Student Senate (SEMA), Congregation of Muslim Biology Student (JMMB), Christian Student Fellowship (PMK), Catholic Student Association (KMK), Biology Orchid Study Club (BiOSC), Marine Study Group (KSK), Entomology Study Group (KSE), Landscape Architecture Study Group (KSAT), Herpetology Study Group (KSH), Formasigen, and the Nature Enthusiastic Group (MATALABIOGAMA).

At 2:30 PM, the winners of the Action of Biologist presentations were announced, with the Environmental Biology and Biodiversity group as winners. Awards were also given for the most interactive, innovative, and expressive students: Muhammad Haikal from the Rhinoceros group was the most interactive, Salsabila Dwira Syaikhah from the Elephas group was the most innovative, and Anasya Prapti Citra from the Aquilaria group was the most expressive.
The closing session featured remarks from the Dean of the Faculty of Biology, concluding with the striking of a gong to mark the end of the event—the closing ceremony enlivened by Mefi, the PIONIR Metamorphoself 2024 mascot. The event officially ended at 2:55 PM, and the young biologists directed to the volleyball court for a celebratory formation, involving creating a symbol representing Metamorphoself using three colors. After the formation, Angga Firza and Birrul Qisty bid farewell, followed by a performance from Syrinx, signaling the end of the second day of PIONIR Metamorphoself 2024. [Public Relations Division of PIONIR Metamorphoself 2024]

On July 29, 2024, the Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) held a significant hybrid meeting for the parents of new students from the 2024 cohort. This event was attended by all parents, providing a platform for them to engage with the faculty and gain insights into their children’s academic journey. The meeting was led by the Dean of the Faculty of Biology, Prof. Dr. Budi Setiyadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc. who emphasized the importance of access to education and cultural diversity in shaping the students’ experiences.

During the meeting, various topics were discussed, including the academic processes that students will undergo throughout their studies. Prof. Budi highlighted the faculty’s commitment to providing a world-class education, which is supported by international collaborations. These partnerships not only enhance the learning experience but also open doors for students to participate in double degree programs, fast-track options, and student mobility and exchange programs.

The discussion also touched upon the importance of cultural diversity within the academic environment. Prof. Budi noted that exposure to different cultures enriches the educational experience and prepares students for a globalized workforce. This aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in promoting inclusive and equitable quality education.

In addition to academic matters, the meeting featured a crucial segment on the dangers of drug abuse. Brigjen. Pol. Drs. Sumirat Dwiyanto, M.Si., the Head of the National Narcotics Agency of West Kalimantan and an alumnus of the Faculty of Biology, provided valuable insights on this pressing issue. He urged parents to remain vigilant and supportive in guiding their children through the challenges they may face during their university years.

Furthermore, the meeting included a presentation on the career prospects for graduates of the Faculty of Biology. Drs. Heri Susanto, M.M., Managing Director at Rentokil Initial for Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives, shared his experiences and the skills that employers seek in graduates. He emphasized the importance of practical experience and how the faculty’s programs are designed to equip students with the necessary skills for employment in various sectors. Prof. Said El Salamouny from the Department of Entomology, College of Agriculture, Cairo University, explained the importance of Biology and its future prospects.

The hybrid format of the meeting allowed for a broader participation, ensuring that parents who could not attend in person were still able to engage in the discussions. This approach reflects the faculty’s commitment to accessibility and inclusivity, aligning with the SDGs’ goal of ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education for all.
As the meeting progressed, parents were encouraged to ask questions and share their concerns. This open dialogue fostered a sense of community and collaboration between the faculty and families, reinforcing the idea that education is a shared journey. The discussions highlighted the importance of parental involvement in supporting students’ academic and personal growth.

The event concluded with a lively discussion session, where parents expressed their gratitude for the information shared and the opportunity to connect with faculty members. The faculty’s dedication to providing a supportive environment for students was evident, and parents left the meeting feeling more informed and empowered to support their children in their academic endeavours.

In summary, the meeting of parents of new students at the Faculty of Biology UGM was a successful event that underscored the importance of access to education, cultural diversity, and collaboration in fostering a rich learning environment. The insights shared by faculty members and guest speakers provided valuable guidance for parents as they navigate this new chapter in their children’s lives.

Yogyakarta, 1 August 2024 – The 7th International Summer Course in Sustainable Development: Sustainable Bioprospecting of Tropical Biodiversity this year consists of various online and offline lecture series, workshops and cultural trips, as well as field studies. The ISC field study was held at Kukup Beach and Porok Beach, Gunung Kidul, DIY on Tuesday (1/7).

Kukup Beach is one of the famous beach destinations in the Gunung Kidul area, alongside several other beaches in the same area including Panjang Beach, Nglolang Beach and so on. Kukup Beach is a source of livelihood for the surrounding community who depend on marine products and tourism. Some of the products sold include processed shrimp, squid, fish, and antlion.

The participants enthusiastically explored the beach area. Divided into several groups, they went around to study marine bioprospecting products in the Kukup Beach area. Some of them conducted short interviews with the sellers there, and tasted processed products including fried antlion which some people are not too familiar with consuming.

The ISC agenda continued with exploring Porok Beach, which is one of the marine research stations managed by the UGM Faculty of Biology. Porok Beach is often used as a place for research and data collection for students to study marine ecosystems.

In the evening and into the evening, the participants enthusiastically took part in various simple games. Apart from familiarizing the participants, this also helped refresh their minds after the series of lectures and training on the previous ISC agenda. The evening closed by grilling sausages around the fire while sharing the fun experiences of the participants during this summer course.