SDG 14 : Develop Life Below Water

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SDG 14 : Develop Life Below Water

Strengthening Research Collaboration: NTU Singapore Visits Faculty of Biology UGM for CCUS Project

Cooperation News Release Friday, 21 February 2025

Yogyakarta, February 21, 2025 – The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), welcomed a delegation from Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore, as part of a research collaboration under the NTU Singapore Institute of Research for Sustainability and Innovation (INSPIRASI) CCUS (Carbon Capture Utilization and Storage) program. This research project has been ongoing since 2024.

The meeting, held in the KPTU Meeting Room at the Faculty of Biology UGM, was attended by Assoc. Prof. Marcos and his student, Tan Pei Ru, from the School of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, College of Engineering NTU. Also present were Prof. Dr.Eng. Ir. Arief Budiman, M.S., IPU., and Dr. Nugroho Dewayanto, S.T., M.Eng., from the Faculty of Engineering UGM. From the Faculty of Biology UGM, the meeting was attended by Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Cooperation, and Alumni, along with his master’s and doctoral students.

During the meeting, discussions revolved around research progress on the application of local strain microalgae for CO2 absorption and its utilization for biorefinery products. This collaboration aims to develop innovative solutions for sustainable carbon emissions management toward net zero emissions using microalgae.

In addition to the discussion session, the NTU delegation also conducted a field visit to several research facilities supporting this project, including the Integrated Genome Factory (IGF), which serves as the DNA/RNA sequencing service center at the Faculty of Biology UGM.

This visit not only focused on research developments but also resulted in an agreement that the Faculty of Biology UGM and NTU will implement a student exchange program as part of strengthening academic and research cooperation.

This research aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy, SDG 13: Climate Action, SDG 14: Life Below Water, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals. The Faculty of Biology UGM hopes that this collaboration will significantly contribute to climate change mitigation efforts through microalgae-based biotechnology innovations.

Histology and Animal Anatomy Learning for SMPIT Muhammadiyah An Najah, Klaten Students at the Faculty of Biology, UGM

News Release Thursday, 20 February 2025

On Tuesday, February 18, 2025, students from SMPIT Muhammadiyah An Najah, Klaten, had the opportunity to study biology with a focus on histology and animal anatomy at the Laboratory of Animal Structure and Development, Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM). This activity was attended by 29 students, accompanied by four teachers. The event began with an opening speech by Dr. Ardaning Nuriliani, M.Kes, Head of the Laboratory.

During this activity, students had the chance to learn directly about the structure and function of animals. The learning process included a hands-on dissection of Nile tilapia, guided by the laboratory assistants, who are undergraduate and graduate students. In this lab. work, students learned how to dissect animal in accordance with animal welfare principles and studied the topography and anatomical structure of organs. They also observed histological slides of various organ types to gain a deeper understanding of the cellular and tissue components that make up an organ. At the end of the session, students visited the anatomy section of the Laboratory of Animal Structure and Development, where they observed preserved specimens of various animal species as well as skeletal structures. This activity is expected to enhance students’ practical skills and enrich their learning experience in biology while also supporting SDG 4 on quality education.

Furthermore, this initiative is also aimed at strengthening collaboration and the university’s role in supporting primary education from elementary to senior high school. By doing so, it contributes to the achievement of SDG 17, which focuses on partnerships for the goals.

Gentalk 1 : Bioinformatics approach in genomic research and Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS)

News Release Student Activities Monday, 17 February 2025

On Friday, 14th of February 2025 at 1-1.30 PM, Gentalk 1 is held in the Laboratory of Genetics and Breeding, Faculty of Biology UGM. This program is targeted for all Formasigen members and Biology UGM students in general. Mrs. Ganies Riza Aristya, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., as Formasigen’s supervisor lecturer, also attended this program. Gentalk is an active discussion and sharing session between alumni or senior student and Formasigen’s member about the undergraduate thesis they are working on. In the first Gentalk of this year, there are 3 speakers, which are Azizah Tyas Nugrahanty, S.Si., Lucia Arum Sekar Meysari, S.Si., and Tiara Putria Judith. Azizah Tyas Nugrahanty, S.Si and Lucia Arum Sekar Meysari, S.Si. are master students in the Faculty of Biology UGM batch 2023, while Tiara Putria Judith is a master student in the Faculty of Biology UGM batch 2024, all under the supervision of Mrs. Ganies Riza Aristya, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D. for their undergraduate thesis.

This program started with an opening from the Master of Ceremony, Andreas Wibisono, as a part of the Scientific Division of HomeoGenesis Cabinet, followed by an opening speech by Mrs. Ganies Riza Aristya, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D. as the supervisor lecturer of Formasigen. In the speech, Mrs. Ganies express her hope for this program to be held more consistently and better so that this program can be a vessel for knowledge sharing and discussion for all Faculty of Biology’s students. The next activity is a presentation from all three speakers about “ Bioinformatics approach in genomic research : Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS)” . This presentation contains the history of NGS (Next Generation Sequencing) which is a development from the previously known method, Sanger Sequencing. Unlike Sanger sequencing, NGS can detect the whole genome in a shorter time with high-throughput results. One of the applications for NGS is its usage for WGS (Whole Genome Sequencing). This presentation also introduced a website called usegalaxy as a free online platform for genome sequencing analysis. All participants are given a tutorial to access the website and follow instruction to analyse a sequence. After that, is the Q&A session followed by closing from the master of ceremony. With the success of the first Gentalk of this year, we hoped that this could be a good start to be a vessel for an interesting and beneficial discussion. We also hope that this program can give a better understanding about all the researches done by all the lecturers and their students in the Laboratory of Genetics and Breeding, Faculty of Biologi UGM. [Author: Formasigen]

Developing a Master Plan for Research and Community Service: Faculty of Biology UGM’s 2025 Initiative with Full Participation of All Lecturers

News Release Friday, 31 January 2025

Yogyakarta, January 31, 2025 – The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), held the Research, Community Service, Collaboration, and Alumni Workshop (Workshop P2MKSA) on Friday, January 31, 2025. The event took place at the Auditorium Biologi Tropika from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM WIB and was attended by all lecturers of the Faculty of Biology UGM.

The workshop was officially opened by Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration, and Alumni Affairs, along with Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM. After the opening ceremony, a group photo session was held to document the event.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., stated that the workshop aims to gather input from lecturers regarding the 2024–2028 Master Plan for Research and Community Service at the Faculty of Biology UGM. This plan will later be submitted to the Faculty Senate for approval. Additionally, in the afternoon session, the P2MKSA team would provide an overview of various research and community service grants offered by the faculty.
“I highly appreciate the role of young lecturers in drafting this Master Plan and other programs. They are the next generation who will lead the Faculty of Biology toward greater progress and innovation,” he added.

Meanwhile, Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., emphasized that the Master Plan for Research and Community Service is crucial for supporting the faculty’s accreditation process, both for LAMSAMA and other accreditations.
“This Master Plan will be a strategic document that not only guides the faculty’s research and community service but also plays an important role in the accreditation process. With proper planning and the support of all lecturers, we can continuously improve the academic quality and contribution of the Faculty of Biology UGM, both nationally and internationally,” said Prof. Budi.

Discussion on the Master Plan for Research and Community Service

During the first session, participants received a presentation on the Master Plan for Research and Community Service delivered by Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., Dr. Fajar Sofyantoro, S.Si., M.Sc., Dr. Dwi Sendi Priyono, S.Si., M.Si., and Dr. Wiko Arif Wibowo, S.Si. This session provided insights into the research and community service direction to be developed by the Faculty of Biology UGM, highlighting innovations and strategies for implementing research outcomes in society.

Socialization of Research and Community Service Grants

After the break for prayer and lunch, the agenda continued with the Socialization of Research and Community Service Grants, led by Dr. Wiko Arif Wibowo, S.Si., and Dr. Aprilia Sufi Subiastuti, S.Si. The session covered various research and community service grant opportunities available for lecturers at the Faculty of Biology UGM.

The workshop concluded at 3:00 PM with a closing session by the Master of Ceremony. It is hoped that through this activity, all lecturers at the Faculty of Biology UGM will be more actively involved in impactful research and community service, as well as strengthen collaborative networks with various stakeholders.

The excitement of the International Summer Course Collaboration between Western Sydney University (WSU) and the Faculty of Biology UGM

Cooperation News Release Friday, 24 January 2025

Yogyakarta, 22 January 2025 – Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) together with Western Sydney University (WSU) officially opened the International Summer Course (ISC) at the Tropical Biology Auditorium, Faculty of Biology UGM. This activity took place in two locations, at UGM, Yogyakarta on 21-23 January 2025 and continued in Tarakan, Kalimantan on 24 January – 8 February 2025.

The ISC opening event was attended by 16 WSU students, 6 UGM students, 3 WSU staff-lecturers, and UGM lecturers. The opening begins with a report from Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration and Alumni Affairs, Faculty of Biology UGM, who also acts as Chair of the International Summer Course Organizer. He revealed that this activity was a follow-up to the collaboration between UGM and WSU that had been established over the last few years.

In his speech, Prof. John Charles Hunt, WSU lecturer, hopes that this activity can continue and expand collaboration in the research and academic fields in the future. In line with that, Prof. Dr. Puji Astuti, Director of Partnerships and Global Relations at UGM, expressed her appreciation for this collaboration, and stated that this ISC is the second in January 2025 after collaboration with Monash University and the UGM Vocational School. Prof. Puji also appreciated the focus of the summer course which raised the issue of biodiversity and environmental sustainability as well as UGM’s role in supporting conservation in Kalimantan and Papua.

Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM, Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono also gave a speech and opened the event. He said that Yogyakarta is a special place with its rich culture and nature, and hopes that ISC participants can take advantage of the opportunity to explore various aspects during activities in Yogyakarta. Prof. Budi also emphasized that this ISC is the first in 2025, before the implementation of the regular ISC in July-August.

The event continued with a visit to the Biology Museum, Faculty of Biology UGM, guided by Donan Satria, M.Sc., Lecturer in Animal Systematics, Faculty of Biology. The participants were very enthusiastic in listening to explanations about the history, role and various collections in this museum.

Next, the participants carried out field activities at the Marine Research Station, Faculty of Biology, Porok Beach, Gunung Kidul. This activity includes intertidal sampling and observing biodiversity on the beach. The exploration was guided by Dr. Rury Eprilurahman who focuses on animals and Dr.Eng. Thoriq Teja Samudra regarding Macroalgae. Martin Holland, International Summer Course Coordinator from WSU, said that this field trip was a warm-up before the main summer course agenda in Tarakan, Kalimantan.

Through this ISC, it is hoped that collaboration between WSU and the Faculty of Biology UGM can become closer, opening up opportunities for further collaboration in the academic and research fields, as well as contributing to achieving Sustainable Development goals (SDGs). This activity is in line with SDG 14 (Life Below Water), SDG 15 (Life on Land), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), which focus on biodiversity conservation, environmental sustainability, and international cooperation.

With this spirit of collaboration, it is hoped that similar activities can continue and strengthen relations between UGM and WSU, as well as support conservation and nature preservation efforts in Indonesia and globally.

Exploring Biodiversity and Bioprospecting of Microalgae and Related Organisms Through Bioinformatics Approaches

News Release Tuesday, 21 January 2025

The Microalgae Study Group, the Biotechnology Laboratory, Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), successfully conducted a Bioinformatics Workshop titled “Bioinformatics Approaches to Genomic Research: RNA-Seq and Genome Sequencing”. The workshop was held from December 10 to December 13, 2024, and was attended by 17 participants, including lecturers, students, and professionals.

The workshop’s featured Afif Pranaya Jati, S.P., M.Sc., a Ph.D. candidate in the Department of Microbiology, Monash University, Australia as main speaker. The event aimed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of bioinformatics techniques for analyzing genomic and transcriptomic data. Participants were introduced to advanced methodologies for RNA-Seq data analysis, genome sequencing, gene mining, and hands-on application of bioinformatics software tools.

The workshop was officially opened on Friday, December 10, 2024, by the Head of the Tropical Biology Department, Abdul Razaq Chasani, S.Si., M.Si., Ph.D., at the Tropical Biology Auditorium, Faculty of Biology, UGM. The first day focused on theoretical aspects, including sampling techniques and sequencing quality control (QC), delivered by the primary speaker. Additional sessions included an online lecture by Matin Nuhamuda, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., a lecturer from the Biotechnology Laboratory, Faculty of Biology, UGM, on the topic “Genome Mining—From Data to Insight.”

On the second day, participants explored the basics of sequencing and its application to metagenomics. The third day covered an introduction to whole-genome sequencing (WGS) and the interpretation of resulting data. On the final day, participants focused on RNA sequencing and data interpretation. Practical sessions utilized data from the NCBI database and real-time data interpretation by participants. Analyses were performed using the Galaxy EU platform, a web-based bioinformatics data analysis tool from Europe that is freely accessible.

The workshop concluded with remarks from Prof. Endang Semiarti and Dr. Eng. Thoriq Teja Samudra. Prof. Endang highlighted the workshop’s critical role in enhancing bioinformatics analytical skills, which are increasingly in demand. She expressed hopes for similar activities to be conducted in the future.

This workshop aimed to expand participants’ knowledge of genomic research across diverse fields such as health, agriculture, and biotechnology. The event aligned with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4 on Quality Education by fostering excellence in human resource development through education. It also served as an approach to studying the biodiversity of life forms, contributing to SDG 14 (Life Below Water) and SDG 15 (Life on Land).

Celebrating 41 Years of Dedication: Retirement Seminar for Prof. Dr. Suwarno Hadisusanto

Tak Berkategori Monday, 18 November 2024

Yogyakarta, November 16, 2024 – The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), hosted a Retirement Seminar titled “Revealing the Transformative Power of Indonesia’s Inland Waters” at the Faculty of Biology Auditorium. This event marked the retirement of Prof. Dr. Suwarno Hadisusanto, S.U., after 41 years of dedicated service as a lecturer. The seminar also coincided with Prof. Suwarno’s 70^thbirthday, making it a truly special occasion.

The seminar featured 13 distinguished speakers, all former students of Prof. Suwarno, representing various universities and research institutions. More than 170 participants from diverse backgrounds attended the event.

The opening remarks were delivered by the Chair of the Organizing Committee, Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Andhika Puspito Nugroho, S.Si., M.Si., who expressed deep gratitude for Prof. Suwarno’s dedication. “Prof. Suwarno has given us so much. We extend our heartfelt thanks and profound appreciation for his remarkable contributions,” he said.

The Dean of the Faculty of Biology, Prof. Dr. Budi S. Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., officially opened the event, stating, “The essence of this event is to honor Prof. Suwarno and convey our deepest gratitude, particularly from the Faculty of Biology UGM, for his dedication, commitment, and passion for his alma mater and the advancement of science.”

Following the remarks, attendees participated in a group photo session and were introduced to the new Biodiversity Curator Program—an innovative initiative supporting biodiversity conservation in Indonesia.

The seminar was divided into four sessions, each highlighting various aspects of Indonesia’s inland water potential and management challenges:

Session 1

Moderator: Siti Nurleily Marliana, Ph.D.

Prof. Dr. Suwarno Hadisusanto, S.U. – The Variations and Multifunctions of Inland Waters
Prof. Dr. Tri Retnaningsih Soeprobowati, M.App.Sc. (Universitas Diponegoro) – Paleolimnology for Sustainable Lake Management
Prof. Dr. Agatha Sih Piranti, M.Sc. (Universitas Jenderal Soedirma) – Cultural Eutrophication of Lakes/Reservoirs and Mitigation Efforts
Prof. Dr. Suhestri Suryaningsih, M.Si. (Universitas Jenderal Soedirman) – The Role of Watersheds in Supporting River and Lake/Reservoir Fish Populations

Session 2

Moderator: Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Andhika Puspito Nugroho, S.Si., M.Si.

Dr. Ir. Sri Puji Saraswati, DIC., M.Sc. (UGM) – Eco-Hydrology of Aquatic Communities Amid Infrastructure Development
Dr. Puguh Sujarta, S.Si., M.Si. (Universitas Cenderawasih) – Shallow Marine Conservation Culture
Dr. Ervina Indrayani, S.Si., M.Si. (Universitas Cenderawasih) – Lake Sentani: Uniqueness and Richness of Its Biological Resources

Session 3

Moderator: Mukhlish Jamal Musa Holle, S.Si., M.Env.Sc., D.Phil.

Dr. Ike Nurjuwita Nayasilana, S.Si., M.Si. (Universitas Sebelas Mare) – Water Conservation and Wildlife
Dr. Susintowati, S.Si., M.Si. (Universitas 17 August 1945) – Serious Threats to Coastal Communities
Dr. Tatag Bagus Putra Prakarsa, S.Si., M.Sc. (Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta) – Underground Waters: Supporting Life for Cave-Dwelling Bats

Session 4

Moderator: Dr. Rury Eprilurahman, M.Sc.

Dwinda Mariska Putri, S.Si., M.Sc. (National Research and Innovation Agency) – Vertical Distribution of Zooplankton in Lake Laut Tawar
Heni Wahyu Sartika, S.Si., M.Sc. (UGM) – Belik River as a Flowing Water Management Model During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Maria Eva Kristiyani, S.Si., M.Sc. (De Britto College High School) – Coastal Waters for Aquaculture
Carolina A. Inlandia, S.Si., M.Sc. (Environmental Consultant) – Water Pollution Potential and Management of Tambakboyo Reservoir, Sleman

To conclude the event, Prof. Suwarno generously distributed 70 copies of his book, “Kantong Terakhir Anak Adalah Amanah Tuhan” to participants.

The attendees extended their prayers and best wishes to Prof. Dr. Suwarno Hadisusanto, S.U., for his extraordinary dedication over the past 41 years. They wished him health, happiness, and blessings in his retirement. His legacy of knowledge and inspiration is expected to drive progress for future generations.

Thank you, Prof. Suwarno, for being a role model for us all.

Faculty of Biology UGM Research Day 2024 Attracts Over 300 Visitors On the Second Day

News Release Friday, 15 November 2024

Yogyakarta, November 14, 2024 – The second day of the Faculty of Biology UGM Research Day 2024 achieved remarkable success, drawing more than 300 visitors. The Biology Exhibition, a key highlight of this annual event, captivated attendees, including students, academics, and members of the public.

Held at Building B of the Faculty of Biology, the exhibition showcased innovations, research findings, and cutting-edge biological instruments. Spanning topics such as functional and developmental biology, environmental biology and biodiversity, and molecular biology and biotechnology, the event featured detailed presentations at each booth. Visitors had the unique opportunity to engage directly with experts, who provided in-depth explanations about advanced research instruments and methodologies.

In addition to the exhibition, the second day of Research Day included Mini Workshops hosted in collaboration with partners specializing in state-of-the-art research instruments. These sessions offered participants insights into the latest breakthroughs and technologies in biological research. The workshop allowed attendees to hands-on practice using advanced tools under the guidance of experienced instructors. Featured instruments included genetic analysis tools, advanced microscopy systems, and software for biological data analysis and statistical modeling. Participants, comprising students, young researchers, and biology practitioners, were able to explore these tools in depth, gaining valuable practical skills and understanding their applications in scientific research.

The workshops aimed to develop participants’ practical competencies in utilizing advanced technologies essential for biological research. Through hands-on activities, attendees not only learned the operational mechanisms of these tools but also explored effective ways to integrate them into their own research projects.

Beyond presenting research outcomes, Research Day serves as a platform to strengthen collaborations among academics, industry professionals, and the broader community. The Faculty of Biology at UGM aspires to make this event a cornerstone for advancing scientific knowledge and innovation in the biological sciences.
[Prepared by the Research Day Committee]

Faculty Of Biology Gadjah Mada University Sends Delegations To The 2024 National Meeting Of The Indonesian Biology Consortium (KOBI) In Banda Aceh

News Release Thursday, 7 November 2024

Department of Biology FMIPA Syiah Kuala University and The Indonesian Biology Consortium (KOBI) in collaboration with the Biology Study Program, FKIP, Syiah Kuala University, and the Biology Study Program, Faculty of Science and Technology, UIN Ar-Raniry Banda Aceh, has successfully held a National Meeting (Rakernas) on November 5-6, 2024 at the FMIPA Hall, Syiah Kuala University, Banda Aceh. This Rakernas was attended by 31 delegates who were representatives of Biology study programs throughout Indonesia. The delegation from the Faculty of Biology UGM itself was attended by Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., as the Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM and also the Chairman of KOBI. In addition, along with the group, Prof. Dr. Suwarno Hadisusanto, S.U. as the Advisory Board of KOBI, Prof. Dr.rer.nat. Andhika Puspito Nugroho, S.Si., M.Si., as Secretary of KOBI and Head of the Master of Biology Program, Prof. Dr. Endah Retnaningrum, M.Eng., as Head of the Biology Doctoral Study Program, Prof. Rina Sri Kasiamdari, S.Si., Ph.D., as Head of the Biodiversity Curator Professional Program, and Sukirno, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D. as Head of the Undergraduate Biology Study Program.

Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., in his remarks said that KOBI celebrated its 13th anniversary on September 22, 2024. KOBI has made important contributions to the development and sustainability of biodiversity in Indonesia, especially in recording biodiversity indexes. The National Meeting was opened by the Chancellor of Syiah Kuala University, Prof. Dr. Ir. Marwan. He emphasized the importance of biodiversity and sustainable management and encouraged collaboration and synergy of research cooperation between universities. Mayor of Banda Aceh Mr. Ade Surya, S.T., M.E. in his speech said that the Banda Aceh City Government hopes that the KOBI meeting will be a forum for friendship in every national working meeting and congress activity, especially in the application of the biodiversity index to support the achievement of Indonesia Emas 2045.

This national working meeting also held a workshop on the Initiation and Strengthening of the Biology Professional Program from the National Professional Certification Agency, Socialization of the 2024 Permendikbudristek No.44/2024 from KOBI, Living Planet Report 2024 from WWF Indonesia, the Indonesian Biodiversity Atlas Compilation Plan from the Geospatial Information Agency and the Postgraduate Curriculum Based on Academic Manuscripts based on OBE from KOBI.

This KOBI National Working Meeting is expected to not only be a forum for the exchange of knowledge and collaboration, but also to affirm KOBI’s commitment to play an active role in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) program, especially improving inclusive education (SDG 4) through sustainable collaboration (SDG 17). In addition, this activity also encourages the advancement of biological science in Indonesia, especially in biodiversity conservation, including the preservation of marine ecosystems (SDG 14) and terrestrial ecosystems (SDG 15), as well as the application of biological science for environmental sustainability.

Faculty of Biology Initiates Double Degree with Universities in the Philippines

Cooperation Tuesday, 5 November 2024

Yogyakarta, 5 November 2024 – Faculty of Biology UGM initiated a double degree collaboration with the University of Philippines Los Banos (UPLB) and the Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA). This initiation was conveyed in an online meeting with Dr. Maria Genaleen Q. Diaz from the Institute of Biological Sciences Director, University of the Philippines at Los Banos (UPLB), and Dr. Mom. Carmin as IBS Graduate Program Committee. The meeting was also attended by Dr. Bambang Retnoaji as Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc. as Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Cooperation and Alumni Affairs and Nur Indah Septriani, Ph.D. as Head of the International Affairs Office, Faculty of Biology, UGM.

During the meeting, the initiation of a 2+2 double degree collaboration between the Faculty of Biology UGM and UPLB was discussed. Dr. Ma and Dr. Maria appreciated this initiation. Both of them said that UPLB already has a double degree program running with 13 universities in the United Kingdom and Australia, especially for double degree doctoral programs, but did not rule out the possibility of double degree collaboration for masters. The program covers the fields of genetics, botany, microbiology, and molecular biotechnology.

Dr. Eko and Dr. Bambang added that the initiation of the double degree collaboration could be supported by the SEARCA (Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture) scholarship. It is hoped that this collaboration will attract more students to pursue their education at the two universities.

The collaboration between the Faculty of Biology UGM and UPLB is expected to be part of the Biology Faculty’s commitment to its role in sustainable development in accordance with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), namely healthy living (SDG 3), inclusive quality education for all groups (SDG 4), as well as partnerships in achieve sustainable goals (SDG 17).

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