The Politeknik Pembangunan Pertanian (Polbangtan) Yogyakarta Magelang held an In-House Training (IHT) for Educational Laboratory Technicians (PLP) on August 12–13, 2025. The event, held at Polbangtan Yoma, Jl. Kusumanegara No. 2, Tahunan, Umbulharjo, Yogyakarta, was officially opened by Sevi Melati, SP., M.Sc., a Young Expert PLP representing Polbangtan Yogyakarta Magelang, and attended by nine PLPs. On this occasion, Sevi Melati emphasized that this training is a strategic step to strengthen PLP competencies, ensure laboratory management is conducted in accordance with standards, and guarantee safety and service quality in laboratories to support Quality Education (SDG No. 4).

The speakers from the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada delivered the materials in a comprehensive and practical manner. On the first day, Dr. Ardaning Nuriliani, S.Si., M.Kes. presented Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for Laboratory Equipment Usage and Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) in the Laboratory. Meanwhile, Eka Mega Sampurna, A.Md. conducted a session on Laboratory Equipment Maintenance and Calibration, accompanied by Practical Equipment Usage Simulation to strengthen participants’ understanding through hands-on learning. These topics directly and indirectly contribute to ensuring Good Health and Well-Being (SDG No. 3). On the second day, Dr. Maryani, M.Sc. delivered a session on Laboratory Management, including Inventory Equipment Recording and Reporting. She also guided participants in the Preparation of Plant Tissue Samples, including roots, stems, and leaves. All sessions were designed to be interactive, combining theory, discussion, and practice, enabling participants to master technical skills while also understanding managerial aspects of laboratory work to support Quality Education (SDG No. 4).

The implementation of this IHT demonstrates Polbangtan Yoma’s commitment to supporting the capacity building of PLPs so they can manage laboratories effectively, safely, and efficiently in line with the goal of providing Quality Education (SDG No. 4). The skills gained by participants are expected to not only support practicum and research activities but also strengthen the role of laboratories as centers of learning and innovation in agriculture, which is closely related to Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG No. 12) and Life on Land (SDG No. 15). The IHT program was concluded by Asih Farmia, SP., M.Agr.Sc., who expressed the hope that this training would bring great benefits to the PLPs. Furthermore, the participation of the Faculty of Biology, UGM in supporting this activity is expected to initiate collaboration between Polbangtan Yoma, to be formalized in a Memorandum of Understanding, thereby accelerating the achievement of Partnerships for the Goals (SDG No. 17). (Contributors: Ardaning Nuriliani, Maryani, Eka Mega Sampurna).

Leipzig, 10–22 August 2025 – The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), together with Leipzig University, Germany, and Badr University, Egypt, organized the International Summer Course Program on One Health, bringing together students and lecturers from multiple countries. This program is a collaboration between UGM’s Faculty of Biology, the Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health at Leipzig University, and Badr University.

The two-week program was attended by 10 undergraduate students from both the International Undergraduate Program (IUP) and Regular Program of the Faculty of Biology UGM, along with 22 students from Badr University and Leipzig University, as well as academic teams from all three institutions. Dr.rer.nat. Abdul Rahman Siregar, M.Biotech., also accompanied UGM students throughout the course activities.

During the barbecue session, the Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM, Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, and the Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration, and Alumni Affairs, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, joined the event alongside Prof. Adel from Badr University, Dr. Ahmed Abd El Wahed, and Prof. Uwe Truyen from the Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health at Leipzig University.

The International Summer Course on One Health aims to enhance interdisciplinary understanding of the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, while fostering collaborative research and global knowledge exchange. The program supports the achievement of SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

Leipzig, 13 August 2025 – The Dean of the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, together with the Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration, and Alumni Affairs, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, and Dr.rer.nat. Abdul Rahman Siregar, M.Biotech, paid an official visit to Leipzig University, Germany.

During a meeting with the Faculty of Life Science, Leipzig University, both institutions discussed the initiation of a Double Degree program at the doctoral level, linking UGM’s Faculty of Biology with Leipzig University’s Faculty of Life Science. The meeting was attended by Prof. Ahmed Abd El Wahed and Prof. Uwe Truyen from the Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health, Professor Dr. Marc Schönwiesner as Dean of the Faculty of Life Science, and representatives from Leipzig University’s Office of International Affairs.

This program is expected to serve as a strategic step to expand international academic networks, enhance the quality of education and research, and strengthen UGM’s role in advancing integrated knowledge in education and biodiversity-related research. The initiative is also aligned with the achievement of SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

Yogyakarta, 12 August 2025 – The Biotechnology Laboratory of the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) welcomed Dr. Mei-Lei Tan, a biotechnology expert specializing in plant cell culture, who is also the Managing Director and owner of Crea Nova Consultancy, the Netherlands. She was accompanied by Yogyakarta-based artist, Ipeh Nur. Their visit was warmly received by Dr. Wahyu Aristyaning Putri, Head of the Biotechnology Laboratory, and Prof. Dr. Endang Semiarti, M.Sc., M.Sc., a distinguished researcher in plant biotechnology and cell culture.

The visit, which took place on Tuesday afternoon (12/8), aimed to explore potential collaboration in developing hybrid clove varieties brought by Ipeh from Ternate as part of conservation efforts. The Biotechnology Laboratory expressed strong support for this collaborative initiative. During the discussion, Prof. Endang shared insights into various hybrids developed through protoplast fusion methods and CRISPR-Cas9 technology, particularly for the conservation of Indonesia’s native orchids.

Dr. Mei expressed her enthusiasm for the discussion, emphasizing the importance of conserving biological resources and transferring knowledge to future generations to ensure the sustainability of preservation efforts.

Through this meeting, it is expected that research collaboration can be established to develop biotechnological innovations that not only safeguard valuable plants such as cloves and orchids but also contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals—specifically SDG 4 (Quality Education) through youth capacity building in science, SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) through sustainable management of biological resources, and SDG 15 (Life on Land) through the protection and restoration of terrestrial biodiversity.

When Ruvarashe Rambwawasvika—known to friends as “Ruru”—arrived in Yogyakarta at the end of October last year, she carried with her not only a suitcase but also a wealth of experience and a clear vision for the future. The 26-year-old master’s student from Zimbabwe is now charting her academic path at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), supported by the prestigious Kemitraan Negara Berkembang (KNB) scholarship.

Ruru earned her Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences from the University of Zimbabwe, later serving as a Biosafety Officer at the National Biotechnology Authority of Zimbabwe for nearly two years. This role deepened her commitment to safeguarding public health and reinforced her desire to specialize further.

The KNB scholarship offered her both tuition and living support, along with a mandatory period of Indonesian language and cultural immersion. Before beginning her master’s program, she participated in orientation sessions organized by the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, which paired her with Indonesian speakers to help navigate daily life—from shopping to understanding everyday terms.

Ruru’s decision to study at UGM was shaped by both research and recommendation. “I considered other Indonesian universities through friends and social media,” she recalls, “but UGM’s strong biology department stood out.” Encouragement from peers about Indonesia’s peaceful atmosphere and supportive academic environment helped seal her decision.

Moving from a country with four distinct seasons to Indonesia’s warm, tropical climate required some adjustment, but Ruru has embraced the change. She praises the kindness of the local community and the willingness of people to help.

Language posed its own challenges—lectures are largely in Bahasa Indonesia—but her professors have been flexible, allowing her to complete assignments and exams in English. The gradual pace of language instruction has also eased the transition.

Food has been both a comfort and an adventure. Back home, maize-based fufu (sadza) is a staple, and while sourcing white maize in Yogyakarta is expensive and infrequent, she occasionally receives supplies through contacts in Malang. She enjoys cooking with her Malawian roommate but also appreciates campus lunches and Indonesian dishes like nasi goreng. While the sweeter flavor profile was unfamiliar at first, she has grown fond of it over time.

Ruru’s academic interests lie in parasitology with a biomedical focus. Her undergraduate research examined the prevalence of Babesia canis and Ehrlichia canis, two canine blood parasites. She has observed that, compared to the focus on viruses, bacteria, and fungi, parasitology—especially related to blood and waterborne parasites—remains underexplored.

Over the next two years, she aims to sharpen her skills in biochemistry and molecular laboratory methods, using Indonesia’s biodiversity as a comparative research context with Zimbabwe. She appreciates UGM’s access to parasitology experts, sequencing facilities, and visiting professors from countries like Japan, China, or European countries, which could open pathways for her eventual PhD.

Like many international students, Ruru faced moments of homesickness, but strong community support and a steady daily routine helped her settle in. Her best memories so far are of inclusivity and the consistent support she has received from both peers and faculty.

After completing her master’s degree, Ruru plans to return to Zimbabwe to work as a researcher and lecturer—ideally at her alma mater. She hopes to contribute to her department’s growth, advance environmental management practices, and collaborate with organizations like the Environmental Management Agency of Zimbabwe.

Her journey is a testament to the power of academic exchange, cultural adaptability, and a clear sense of purpose. As she navigates the laboratories and lecture halls of UGM, Ruru is not only building her own future but also paving the way for stronger scientific collaboration between Zimbabwe and Indonesia.>

Yogyakarta, August 12, 2025 – As part of the Lustrum XIV series, the Faculty of Biology at Gadjah Mada University (UGM) successfully held a meaningful “Javanese Classical Dance Workshop of the Jogja Style” on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, starting at 08:00 AM WIB. This event is a testament to the faculty’s commitment to maintaining the life balance of its academic community amidst busy research and academic activities.

The workshop, themed “Wiraga, Wirama, Wirasa” (Body, Rhythm, Feeling), aimed to provide a space for the entire Faculty of Biology family—from lecturers, educational staff, and students (undergraduate and postgraduate) to alumni—to unwind and balance their academic and non-academic lives. The activity was open to all, including those with no prior traditional dance experience.

Javanese classical dance, particularly Yogyakarta style, not only teaches beautiful movements but also contains a deep philosophy that benefits its dancers. This dance practice trains calmness, patience, and discipline. Participants are invited to internalize noble values such as sawiji (full concentration), greget (enthusiasm), sengguh (self-confidence without arrogance), and ora mingkuh (not easily giving up). Physically, dancing is also proven to be effective in improving balance, body strength, and health.

The workshop was led by professional dancer and trainer, Mas Tunggul Pujangkoro. With a patient and friendly approach, he successfully created a pleasant learning atmosphere and sparked high enthusiasm among the participants. This moment of togetherness was also strengthened by the faculty’s commitment to environmental issues, where participants were encouraged to bring their own water bottles as a tangible step to reduce plastic waste.

This activity is in line with UGM’s commitment to supporting the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Specifically, this dance workshop contributes to achieving SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being by providing a platform for mental and physical health. Additionally, the activity strengthens SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals by uniting various elements of the academic community in a positive and collaborative activity.

Through this event, the Faculty of Biology at UGM not only demonstrates its role as a center of academic excellence but also as a community that cares for the well-being of its members and the preservation of cultural heritage. It is hoped that similar activities can continue to be held to strengthen relationships and improve the quality of life for the entire UGM Faculty of Biology civitas.

The spice research team WP (Work Package) 2, coordinated by Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc. in the INUCoST (Indonesia-Netherlands Universities Consortium for Sustainable Futures) platform, has been exploring spices in East Kalimantan. The initial phase of the spice exploration focused on the buffer zone of the Nusantara Capital City (IKN), including the Samarinda City and four districts in Penajam Paser Utara Regency. The exploration, conducted from July 30 to August 3, 2025, collaborated with lecturers and researchers from the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Mulawarman University, and coordinated with the research team from Leiden University, Prof. Dr. rer.nat. Paul Kessler and Roderick Boumann.

The spice exploration on the first day began with a visit to the Wanariset Herbarium in Samboja subdistrict, Kutai Kartanegara district. During the visit, discussions were held, and spice specimens from the herbarium collection were recorded. These activities provided a wealth of information about spices and traditional medicinal plants used by the people of Kalimantan. This information was crucial as initial data for spice exploration, particularly in East Kalimantan. Spice documentation is conducted by observing the herbarium’s various collections, including dried specimens, spirit specimens, and living collections planted around the area. Additionally, the team had the opportunity to directly observe and study the drying process of specimens for the herbarium collection.

A Focus Group Discussion (FGD) was held with partners and relevant agencies to initiate the exploration of spices in the city of Samarinda, East Kalimantan. Attendees included Mr. Rahmadona, a representative of the Dayak tribe, the Forestry Department of East Kalimantan, the Nature Conservation Agency (BKSDA) of East Kalimantan, the Dean and Vice Dean of Mulawarman University, and the Research and Community Service Institute (LP2M) of Mulawarman University. The FGD began with a presentation by the spice team leader, Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., on the definition of spices, global spice distribution routes, and an explanation of the spice project of INUCoST Work Package 2 being implemented in East Kalimantan. The session continued with a discussion on spice diversity in East Kalimantan. The discussion outcomes were used to gather initial data on the diversity of spices existing in East Kalimantan.

The survey and data collection on spices were done by visiting various traditional markets, starting with Loa Janan and Subuh traditional markets in Kutai Kartanegara regency; Pandansari, Buton, and Inpres traditional markets in Balikpapan; and Petung and Penajam Central traditional markets in Penajam Paser Utara regency. Additionally, the team conducted surveys at several traditional herbal medicine vendors, such as herbs sellers in Argomulyo village, Sepaku sub-district, and Dapur Sehat in Waru sub-district, Penajam Paser Utara. The spice research team also had the opportunity to visit the home gardens of Paser ethnic group residents in Paser sub-district, Penajam Paser Utara. Some spices successfully documented from the Paser ethnic group include Bonglai, or Mango Ginger (Zingiber montanum (J.Koenig) Link ex A.Dietr.), Lemongrass (Cymbopogon nardus (L.) Rendle), and Kecombrang, or torch ginger (Etlingera elatior (Jack) R.M.Sm.), which were found growing abundantly in the residents’ yards.

The entire spice exploration program was successfully implemented. A total of 53 spice specimens were collected during the exploration. The specimens were then collected and preserved in both spirit and dry preservation at the Laboratory of the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada. The list of spices and the specimens obtained represent crucial information for understanding the richness of Indonesia’s native spice diversity and its distribution. (MSR)

The Nuclear Energy Research Organization of the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) held a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) titled “Application of Food Irradiation to Support the Export of Indonesian Agricultural Products” on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, at the Auditorium of Building 720 in the BJ Habibie Science and Technology Area (KST), Serpong. The event, which ran from 08:30 to 15:30 WIB, aimed to promote the use of food irradiation technology as a strategy to enhance the competitiveness of Indonesian agricultural products in the global market, while also supporting the distribution of safe and nutritious food across the archipelago.

The discussion was opened by the Deputy for Research and Innovation Utilization at BRIN, who emphasized the importance of integrating research, policy, and industry to transform the national food system. A keynote address by Dr. Tri Mumpuni, a member of BRIN’s Steering Committee, underlined the critical role of irradiation technology in boosting food export and safety. She also addressed the issue of equitable access to research and technological infrastructure, advocating for the decentralization of irradiation facilities beyond the existing centers in Cibinong and Serpong to other regions, particularly in Eastern Indonesia where food production and export potential are significant.

The Head of the National Nutrition Agency, Dr. Ir. Dadan Hindayana, highlighted the potential of food irradiation to support national nutrition initiatives, particularly the free nutritious lunch program targeting vulnerable groups such as children from low-income families, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers. He emphasized the importance of high-quality food provision and sustainable organic waste processing as part of Indonesia’s upcoming national nutrition revolution and called for thorough research on the impact of food irradiation as a preservation method within this program.

SLEMAN, YOGYAKARTA – JULY 29, 2025 – In an innovative learning initiative, a group of students (Awanda Nurvi Adifa (22/497410/BI/11018), Nisrina Nibros Hasibuan (22/498667/BI/11048), and Safina Suci Samara (22/498711/BI/11049)) from the UGM Faculty of Biology has conducted a field study at the Prambanan Temple complex. The activity, part of the Research scheme of the Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka (MBKM) program, focuses on identifying and analyzing the diverse fauna carved on the reliefs of the 9th-century temple.

The visit aims to reconstruct a picture of past biodiversity as depicted on the temple reliefs. Using the bio-iconography method, the students are meticulously documenting, identifying, and analyzing every animal relief found, from mammals and birds to reptiles and insects. The collected data will then be used to build a historical database of the fauna from that period.

This research activity not only has high academic value but also directly supports the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Specifically, this initiative is highly relevant to SDG 15: Life on Land. By understanding the types of animals that once lived and were recorded in this cultural heritage, the students can provide historical comparative data. This data is crucial for understanding biodiversity changes over centuries, measuring the rate of species loss, and can ultimately form the basis for formulating more effective wildlife conservation strategies today.

Furthermore, this program is also a tangible implementation of SDG 4: Quality Education. The MBKM learning model, which takes students directly to the research object, provides a deep, contextual learning experience that goes beyond the classroom walls.

Zuliyati Rohmah, S.Si., M.Si., Ph.D. Eng., the supervising field lecturer, stated that Prambanan Temple is a priceless natural history laboratory. “The reliefs on the temple are not merely artistic decorations, but a visual archive of past ecosystems. Through the eyes of a biologist, these reliefs tell a story about the richness of fauna in their time. This is a bridge between biology, archaeology, and history that provides students with a holistic understanding,” she said.

One of the participating students, Awanda, expressed her enthusiasm. “This experience has opened our eyes to the fact that conservation is not just about the future, but also about learning from the past. Seeing the detailed carvings of langurs, deer, and various
birds on the stone made us wonder, are they all still around us today? This motivates us to be more concerned about wildlife preservation,” she said.

The results of this research are expected to be published in a scientific journal and become an important reference for researchers, archaeologists, and conservation activists in understanding the ancient Javanese ecological landscape.

Pagoh, Malaysia – The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), conducted an official visit to Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM) to discuss the implementation of a Dual Degree program at the undergraduate level (Bachelor of Science) between the Faculty of Applied Sciences and Technology (FAST), UTHM and the Faculty of Biology UGM. The visit took place from July 24 to 28, 2025, at Pagoh Branch Campus, UTHM, Malaysia.

The UGM delegation was led by Prof. Dr. Bambang Retnoaji, S.Si., M.Sc., Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs, and accompanied by two staff members from the Office of Research, Community Service, Collaboration, and Alumni (P2MKSA), Anysah Nur Fauziyah, S.Si., and Annisa Mawarni, S.Si.

An intensive three-day curriculum matching session was held from Thursday to Saturday, July 24–26, 2025. This process was crucial to ensure compatibility in course structures, credit loads, and learning outcomes, which are essential for the effective and equitable implementation of the dual degree program.

In addition to curriculum alignment, the discussions also involved drafting the content of the Memorandum of Agreement (MoA), which will serve as the legal foundation for the collaboration. Finalizing the MoA marks a strategic step toward establishing a strong administrative and operational framework for the dual degree program. With agreement reached on both the curriculum and the MoA content, both institutions are optimistic that the program can commence in the upcoming academic semester.

The visit concluded with an official meeting on Monday, July 28, 2025, between the UGM delegation and the leadership and academic staff of FAST-UTHM. The meeting was attended by: Assoc. Prof. Ts. ChM. Dr. Hatijah binti Basri, Dean of FAST, Assoc. Prof. Ts. Dr. Muhammad Abdul Latiff bin Abu Bakar, Deputy Dean for Research, Development, and Publication, Dr. Aqilah Binti Awg Abdul Rahman, Head of Natural Resources Program, Dr. Arney Binti Sapaat, Head of SUNR Centre, Dr. Nur Hafizah Binti Malik, Head of BWD Program, Assoc. Prof. Ts. Dr. Norazlin Binti Abdullah, Head of Department of Technology & Natural Resources, Ts. Dr. Siti Fatimah Binti Sabran, Ts. Gs. Dr. Kamarul Rahim Bin Kamarudin, Dr. Yap Jing Wei, Ts. Dr. Salasiah Binti Mohamad, Dr. Munira Binti Zainal Abidin, Assoc. Prof. ChM. Dr. Norhayati Binti Muhammad, Dr. Nor Atiqah Binti Norazlimi, Dr. Furzani Binti Pa’ee.

The Faculty of Biology UGM and FAST-UTHM have maintained a strong partnership since 2018, collaborating annually through various international activities such as student mobility programs, the International Conference on Biological Sciences (ICBS), the International Conference on Biodiversity (ICB), and the International Summer Course.

FAST-UTHM expressed strong enthusiasm for this collaboration, highlighting the shared academic vision and focus on life sciences as well as the mutual commitment to strengthening internationally recognized education.