Yogyakarta, June 1, 2024- The Independent Learning Independent Campus (MBKM) 2024 Research Team from the Faculty of Biology, under the supervision of Sukirno, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., with the project titled “DNA Barcoding of the Wild SilkWorm Samia sp. Boisduval, in Yogyakarta,” made their first visit to their research partner, Jantra Mas Sejahtera, also known as Omah JAMTRA in Wates, Kulon Progo, DI Yogyakarta. This visit was attended by two members of the research team, Saifa Salwa Arrahma and Irenna Sheva Zahrani, along with their mentor, Siti Shofa Assyifa’ul Qulbi Barid, S.Si., M.Sc. The visit aimed to introduce the partner organization and to enhance the team knowledge regarding the Samia cultivation and species in Yogyakarta, identify superior Samia strains, and strengthen cooperation with JAMTRA.
The event began with an introduction by Mr. Yunianto Hargo Nugroho, S.Hut., the head of Omah JAMTRA. He explained the cultivation of Samia and the history of Omah JAMTRA. He shared his expertise and experience in Samia silkworm cultivation, emphasizing the importance of understanding the morphology of silkworms to avoid errors in morphological data collection. Pak Anto showcased the first instar larvae of Samia currently being cultivated and explained the metamorphosis process of the silkworms, as well as the environmental factors that need to be controlled for successful cultivation. He underlined the key factors in Samia silkworm cultivation, including jatropha leaves as feed, maintaining appropriate temperatures, and ensuring the cleanliness of the rearing cages.
The visit also included a discussion regarding silkworm cultivation at Omah JAMTRA and the research conducted by the team. The MBKM Research collaboration with JAMTRA is expected to contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) specifically: No Poverty, Quality Education, Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, and Partnerships for the Goals.
The discussions held during the FGD and field visits covered various topics, including the use of technology in agriculture, organic farming practices, natural resource management, and marketing strategies for agricultural products. The results of these discussions will form the basis for developing more relevant and responsive educational, research, and community service programs tailored to the needs of millennial farmers.
and millennial farmers, bringing tangible positive impacts to the advancement of the agricultural sector in Indonesia. This activity is closely related to several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted by the United Nations. The dialogue and collaboration between the Faculty of Biology UGM and millennial farmers can increase farmers’ productivity and income (SDG 1: No Poverty) and support sustainable agriculture that enhances food security and nutrition (SDG 2: Zero Hunger). This initiative also develops more relevant educational programs for millennial farmers (SDG 4: Quality Education), supports economic growth and job creation in the agricultural sector (SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth), and encourages innovation and modernization of agricultural practices (SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure). The focus on organic farming practices and natural resource management supports sustainable production and consumption (SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production), and the sustainable agriculture discussed in the FGD contributes to climate change mitigation (SDG 13: Climate Action). Furthermore, the collaboration between the Faculty of Biology UGM and millennial farmers is a concrete example of partnerships that support the achievement of sustainable development goals (SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals).
In the Histology & Embryology Section, students were introduced to microscopes and how to use them. They also observed the diffusion process and colorful microscopic preparations. Meanwhile, in the Animal Anatomy Section, students observed skeletal preparations, internal organs, and several anatomical specimens. The children showed remarkable enthusiasm and deep curiosity while learning in the laboratory. The visit also included a question-and-answer session, where the children were given the opportunity to ask questions about interesting science topics to the Master’s and Bachelor’s students conducting research in the laboratory. Intelligent and creative questions flowed, reflecting the growing interest in science among the young generation.