The Biology Orchid Study Club (BiOSC) of the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), held its second Studium Generale event titled “Orchid Identification through Flower Dissection to Support Orchid Conservation in Indonesia” on Saturday, October 19, 2024, in Room 2, Building B, Faculty of Biology as part of scientific coordinators work programs, Akmal Bunyamin. The event was attended by 37 participants and aimed to enhance participants’ knowledge and skills, and motivate members in orchid identification using flower dissection to support orchid conservation efforts in Indonesia.

The session featured a presentation by Ms. Aninda Retno Utami Wibowo, S.Si., M.Sc., a researcher at the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) specializing in biosystematics, who led participants through a detailed, step-by-step guide to identifying new orchid species. Following the theoretical presentation, participants engaged in hands-on dissection practice, where each member received an orchid flower to examine. They were tasked with identifying, measuring, and meticulously documenting various flower parts, highlighting distinguishing characteristics among different orchid species.

The event proceeded smoothly with enthusiastic participation, including an interactive discussion session between attendees and the speaker. The Studium Generale aims to deepen participants’ understanding of orchid identification processes and flower dissection techniques, fostering the scientific knowledge and commitment necessary to contribute to orchid conservation efforts in Indonesia.
Written by: BiOSC

Yogyakarta, 28 October 2025 – Faculty of Biology UGM held a guest lecture featuring a plant engineering expert from Okayama University Japan, Prof. Yoji Kawano. The lecture took place in the Tropical Biology Auditorium, Faculty of Biology, UGM and was attended by students and lecturers from the Faculty of Biology, UGM.

Dr. Bambang Retnoaji, M.Sc. as Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs, Faculty of Biology, gave his speech at the guest lecture Monday (28/10) morning. He said that the Faculty of Biology welcomed Prof. Yoji and opened various research and academic collaboration potential with Okayama University, especially the Institute of Plant Science and Resources. Dr. Bambang also told students to gain as much knowledge as possible from the lecture.

Prof. Yoji Kawano is a Professor from the Plant Immune Design Group, Institute of Plant Science and Resources, Okayama University, Japan. His research focuses on plant pathology, immunobiology, inflammation, and phytopathology.

In this lecture, Prof. Yoji gave a presentation entitled “Deciphering Rice Immunity”. The lecture was guided by a lecturer from the Faculty of Biology from the Biochemistry Laboratory, Dr. Yekti Asih Purwestri, whose research also focuses on the development of rice plants.

Prof. Yoji explained about diseases in plants, especially rice, which are caused by fungi and how this condition is a concern in the agricultural world because of minimal information on interactions between plants and microbes. The professor, who is also an expert in plant engineering, conveyed his research which developed plant breeding using the R (NLR) gene. It is hoped that his various research efforts can contribute to applied agricultural science to obtain superior varieties that are resistant to various pest and disease threats.

The participants were enthusiastic about attending the lecture and were critical in the subsequent question and answer session. Through this public lecture, it is hoped that it can encourage innovation, especially for the academic community, in contributing to research on sustainable ecosystem preservation (SDG 4 and 15) through collaboration between the Faculty of Biology UGM and Okayama University (SDG 17).

Thursday, October 24, 2024, The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, held a Graduation Ceremony for the Postgraduate Program 2024/2025 period I at 01.00 p.m. The event was attended by the Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs, Dr. Bambang Retnoaji, M.Sc., the Vice Dean for Finance, Assets, and Human Resources, Dr. Slamet Widianto, S.Si., M.Sc., the Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration and Alumni Affairs, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, S.Si., M.App.Sc., the Head of Master in Biology Study Program, Prof.Dr.rer.nat. Andhika Puspito Nugroho, S.Si., M.Si., and the Head of Doctor in Biology Study Program, Prof. Dr. Endah Retnaningrum, M.Eng. and thesis supervisor of the graduates. The ceremony was opened by the Dean of the Faculty of Biology Prof. Dr. Budi Setyadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., and followed by singing Indonesia Raya, Hymne Gadjah Mada, and Faculty of Biology March. The event continued with performances of the traditional dance “Sarikalayu” from Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta.

Then, the graduation report was delivered by the Head of the Master in Biology Study Program, Prof.Dr.rer.nat. Andhika Puspito Nugroho, S.Si., M.Si.. Up to this period, the Postgraduate program of Biology UGM had graduated 138 doctoral students and 1764 master students. In the I Period of the Academic Year 2024/2025, there were two graduates for the doctoral program, Dr. Nadya Sofia Siti Sa’adah, S.Si., with cumlaude predicate, and Dr. Ainun Nikmati Layli, S.pd., M.Sc. with very good predicate. The average length of study was 3 years and 11 months and GPA of 3.95. There were 33 graduates for the master’s program with the highest GPA was 3.99.

Next, representatives of the graduates, Hayu Swari Allimi, S.Si., M.Sc., gave a speech. She expressed her gratitude to the parents, the lecturers, and all graduates for supporting their academic journey. She underscored that graduation is the beginning of a greater contribution to the field of study. As postgraduate alumni, they are expected to be leaders and solve issues in the country. She congratulated the graduates and wished their achievements would motivate them to make continuous contributions and advancements in science and technology.

The ceremony continued with a remark from the representative of the parents, Mr. Suyarto, S.T…, father of Hayu Swari Allimi, S.Si., M.Sc. He congratulated and praised the graduates for completing their studies with exceptional excellence. He extended heartfelt thanks to the faculty of biology, lecturers, and academic staff. He also reminded the graduates that their achievements are not the end of their educational journey. The path they have traveled has not been easy, but behind the difficulties, there are many opportunities for personal growth and the development of their mindset. Lastly, he expressed his hope that the lecturers would be blessed by Allah SWT for the knowledge they have imparted to the students.

The ceremony continued with a pin awarding as a sign of membership in the Faculty of Biology Family by the Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration and Alumni Affairs, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, S.Si., M.App.Sc., represented by graduates Dr. Nadya Sofia Siti Sa’adah, S.Si., and Muhammad Rivaldi, S.Pd., M.Sc. Following that was a speech by the Dean, Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc. He congratulated the graduates and their parents. He expressed the faculty’s hope that the graduates would remain optimistic in contributing to the development of Indonesia Emas 2045. He also noted that not everyone, especially those as young as the present graduates, could complete their master’s or doctoral studies. In this period, the youngest doctoral graduate at UGM, aged 26, was from the Faculty of Biology, and thus the graduates should be grateful for their achievements. However, he reminded them not to be complacent but to continue their studies and professional pursuits.

He concluded his address with a poem: “The fruits of perseverance, patience, and strength have brought the graduates to this long-awaited day, a day that was once a dream. Families share in the pride, strengthened by the sincere prayers of parents. In the quiet of the night, prayers are offered without pause. The first step has been achieved. Strengthen the dreams and aspirations to be attained. Though change and challenges lie ahead, fear not, for you are well-prepared. Knowledge is action, and action must be guided by knowledge. To face change head-on and the dynamics of the times, clothed and embraced in comfort, nurturing one another with love and support. A spirit of togetherness is our strength. Together, we create the beauty of life. Welcome, graduates, to the family of Gadjah Mada University Alumni (KAGAMA).”

The event continued with a presentation of mementos from the graduates of Period I, Academic Year 2024/2025, represented by Giano Excelsis Pangemanan, S.Si., M.Sc., to the Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM. The ceremony ended with a prayer by Mr. Sumarno, S.Si., M.Sc., and a group photo. [Author: KMP Biology]

Yogyakarta, 25 October 2025 – Faculty of Biology UGM held a guest lecture featuring a wildlife conservation expert from the Australian National University (ANU), Australia, Dr. George Olah. The lecture took place in the Tropical Biology Auditorium, Faculty of Biology, UGM and was attended by students and lecturers from the Faculty of Biology, UGM.

“This is a good opportunity for ongoing collaboration between the Faculty of Biology UGM and the Australian National University, Australia” Dr. Bambang Retnoaji as Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs in his speech Friday (25/10). Dr. Bambang also did not forget to tell students to actively seek knowledge during the lecture.

Dr. George is a wildlife conservation expert from ANU’s Fenner School of Environment and Society. His research focuses on tropical ecology, genetic conservation, and conservation management, especially bird conservation. Dr. George is also involved in various conservation projects in Indonesia, one of which is the Indonesian Parrot Foundation.

Dr. George explained his lecture presentation with the title “The role of conservation genetics in the study of parrot conservation”. Ecologists and conservation experts convey the phylogeny of the parrot tree, to the status that some species are on the verge of extinction. The threat of extinction is caused by agricultural activities, hunting, deforestation, climate change, the presence of invasive species, and human activities that affect the existence of parrot. Another big threat is the rampant illegal trade in exotic birds. ASEAN and Indonesia itself are one of the locations where this illegal trade is rampant. Dr. George invited students to be aware and participate in efforts to overcome the illegal trade in wild animals through various conservation efforts and increasing public awareness.

The participants were enthusiastic about attending the lecture and were critical in the subsequent question and answer session. Through this public lecture, it is hoped that it can encourage innovation, especially for the academic community, in contributing to research on sustainable ecosystem preservation (SDG 4 and 15) through collaboration between the UGM Faculty of Biology and the Australian National University (SDG 17).

Bogor, October 23, 2024, A public consultation was held to discuss the Proposal for the Reinstatement of Protected Status for Aquatic Biota listed in the Ministry of Environment and Forestry Regulation (Permen LHK) No. P.106 of 2018. The event was organized by the Directorate General of Marine Spatial Management of the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) at the Luminor Hotel in Bogor, and attended by various stakeholders, experts, and representatives from relevant institutions. The consultation addressed the transition of authority over protected wildlife management from the Ministry of Environment and Forestry (KLHK) to the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP).

In this meeting, Dr. Amir Hamidy, M.Sc., Director of the Secretariat for Animal Conservation and Innovation (SKIKH), and Ir. Pingkan Katharina Roeroe, M.Si., Head of the Fish Species Protection and Conservation Team at the Directorate of Marine Conservation and Biodiversity, PRL Directorate General of KKP, served as the primary presenter. They emphasized the importance of re-evaluating Indonesia’s aquatic biota protection status. The presentation included policies aligned with legal developments and current conservation needs, particularly following Law No. 32 of 2024, an amendment to Law No. 5 of 1990 on Conservation of Living Natural Resources and Ecosystems.

A key topic discussed was the shift in management authority over protected wildlife from KLHK to KKP. Participants offered insights and recommendations to support a smooth and effective transition process. Dr. Rury Eprilurahman, representing the Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), contributed significant input, emphasizing the need for clear species identification in state documents and effective management during inter-ministerial authority transfer. He highlighted that accurate identification and sustainable management are critical in protecting aquatic mammals and reptiles categorized as protected species.

The meeting concluded with a signed statement of agreement, which included critical points to guide further discussions regarding the transfer of authority and the management of protected species.

This event underscored the commitment of various parties to ensuring the sustainability of Indonesia’s marine and aquatic ecosystems, safeguarding protected aquatic species in compliance with current regulations.

The public consultation on the proposed revision of aquatic biota protection status also addressed several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 14: Life Below Water, SDG 15: Life on Land, SDG 13: Climate Action, SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

Through this event, Indonesia demonstrated its commitment to achieving the SDGs, focusing on environmental conservation and the sustainable management of natural resources.

Prof. Dr. Kumala Dewi, M.Sc.St., a professor from the Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada, served as a keynote speaker at the 31st International Symposium of Physiology for Health, held at Swiss-Belhotel, Bandar Lampung, on Thursday and Friday, October 10–11, 2024. The symposium, organized by the Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Lampung (Unila), convened experts and delegates from national and international spheres to engage in discussions on the theme of “Integrated Physiology for Global Health Resilience.”

The symposium was opened by the Rector of Unila, Prof. Dr. Ir. Lusmeilia Afriani, D.E.A., IPM., ASEAN Eng., who expressed her appreciation to all participants and distinguished speakers. She underscored the imperative of interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing global health challenges. In her remarks, Prof. Lusmeilia articulated that the symposium’s theme resonates strongly with recent developments in global health. She accentuated the necessity for heightened awareness and collaboration among diverse stakeholders, including academics, healthcare practitioners, and the broader community, to build an integrated framework for health resilience. The Rector further highlighted the pivotal role of physiology in the comprehension and management of various pathologies, including autoimmune disorders, as well as the indispensable support provided by families and communities in the recovery of patients.

The opening ceremony was graced by several notable figures, including the Director and Deputy Director of RSUDAM (Regional General Hospital), the Vice Dean for Academic Affairs and Partnerships of FK Unila, the President of the Indonesian Association of Physiology Experts (IAIFI), Dr. Ermita I. Ibrahim Ilyas, M.S., AIFO, the chair of the organizing committee, and other faculty members.

The symposium featured keynote speakers from various backgrounds. Prof. Cheng Hwee Ming delivered on Autonomous Integrated Resilient Muscle Physiology; Prof. Dr. Ifrannudin, Sp.KO., M.Pd.Ked., delivered on The Role of Research and Innovation in the Future Development of Physiology; Prof. Dr. Kumala Dewi, M.Sc., St., delivered a speech on Plant Physiology for Global Health Resilience. In her discourse, Prof. Kumala emphasized the importance of understanding and applying plant physiology to enhance agricultural productivity, specifically to cultivate crops, particularly vegetables, that are rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and other phytochemicals conducive to health. She further explained that an in-depth knowledge of plant physiology is crucial in mitigating the adverse effects of global climate change, as research in this domain facilitates the development of crops capable of enduring both biotic and abiotic stressors. Moreover, she elucidated the role of plants in promoting environmental health through the absorption of CO2, thereby indirectly contributing to a healthier ecosystem for humanity.

Day two of the symposium featured Dr. Fabian Chin Leong Lim and Prof. Shizue Masuki, Ph.D., who addressed salient issues related to geriatric health and the synergistic benefits of exercise and nutrition. Through this symposium, it is anticipated that the participants’ comprehension of physiology will be substantially deepened, fostering enhanced collaboration between scientists and healthcare professionals, thereby strengthening the foundation for global health resilience. This symposium aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal No. 3: Good Health and Well-being, and Goal No. 13: Climate Action.

On Saturday, October 12, 2024, The Faculty of Biology organized a seminar on Environmentally Friendly Organic Waste Management with Catalytic Microbes and Biostimulant Applications in Agriculture and Horticulture at the Manukan Hamlet Meeting Hall, Condong Catur Village, Sleman. This seminar was part of the 2024 Community Service Program under the Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka (MBKM) led by Prof. Dr. Endah Retnaningrum, M. Eng., with three student members: Saffanah, Fadhila Nujannah, and Sekar Alya Maharani. The event was attended by 30 members of the Women Farmers Group (KWT) from Manukan Hamlet.

The event consisted of two presentation sessions and a discussion session. The first presentation was delivered by Prof. Dr. Endah Retnaningrum, M. Eng. on Environmentally Friendly Organic Waste Management with Catalytic Microbes. She highlighted organic waste commonly disposed of through landfilling at Final Processing Sites (TPA), which still contributes to water, soil, and air pollution. Nevertheless, organic waste can be effectively processed into a more environmentally sustainable form, utilizing catalytic microbes found in the intestines of Black Soldier Fly (BSF) larvae. The organic waste management process involves sorting organic waste, adjusting the waste particle size, and maintaining BSF larvae within the organic waste until complete decomposition is achieved by the catalytic microbes in BSF larvae’s intestines.

The second presentation focused on Biostimulant Applications in Agriculture and Horticulture by Prof. Dr. Kumala Dewi, MSc.St. Biostimulants contain various supplements such as nutrients, amino acids, plant or seaweed extracts, humic acid, chitosan, and beneficial microbes (Azotobacter spp., mycorrhizal fungi, Rhizobium spp., and Azospirillum spp.). These biostimulants benefit agricultural and horticultural practices as they stimulate nutrient absorption by plants, enhance crop quality and yield, boost the activity of rhizosphere microbes and enzymes, increase hormone availability, and promote photosynthesis. Biostimulants can reduce the use of chemical fertilizers, lower greenhouse gas emissions, support green agriculture, increase community income, and contribute to the national food security program.

Following the presentations, there was an engaging discussion and Q&A session with enthusiastic participants, and the event concluded with a group photo. This seminar aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDGs No.6 on clean water and sanitation, SDGs No. 11 on sustainable cities and communities, SDGs No. 12 on responsible consumption and production, and SDGs No. 15 on life on land.

Kulon Progo, October 10, 2024—The Community Service Program (PkM) Team under DRTM Scheme Partnership of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research and Technology, Faculty of Biology UGM led by Sukirno, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D. together with the student team members consisting of R. Hanindyo Adi, S.Si., M.Sc., Aryo Setyo Pandu Wiranto, S.Si., M.Sc., Puji Lestari S.Pd., Syefrina Rosyada, S.Si., and Kaifa Salwa Arrahma together with Omah JAMTRA partners, namely Mr. Yunianto Hargo Nugroho, S.Hut, Mrs. Nurdiana Setianingsih, Mrs. Suparti, and Mr. Sunu held insect knowledge training and brainstorming activities with the community of Crangah Hamlet, Hargotirto Village, Kokap Sub-district, Kulon Progo Regency to explore the potential as an entomology-based tourist village.

In this activity, the team together with Omah JAMTRA partners visited the house of Mr. Tukino as the Head of RT 47 Crangah Hamlet as a gathering place for the community. This activity was attended by residents of Crangah Hamlet totaling around 35 people, as well as community leaders including the Head of RT, Head of Hamlet, and representatives of the Hargotirto Village.

This activity was guided by Puji Lestari S.Pd as the host and continued with remarks by community leaders. Furthermore, in the core session, material was delivered entitled “Endangered Insect Conservation: Potential of Entomology Eduventure-Based Tourism Village” by Sukirno, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D.

The activity was continued with a discussion and brainstorming session related to the potential of Padukuhan Crangah as a tourism village. In addition, this session also held a sharing session with the manager of Omah JAMTRA, namely Mr. Yunianto Hargo Nugroho, S.Hut who provided his knowledge and insight regarding the cultivation of Samia silkworms which he has been doing for years. The series of activities were closed with lunch with residents and joint documentation.

This introduction and potential exploration activity went smoothly and the team was received with great enthusiasm by the residents. Through the presentation of this material and brainstorming, it is hoped that good cooperation will be established between Padukuhan Crangah as a place for the conservation of rare insects as well as a tourism village based on entomology eduventures.

This community service activity is expected to contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals, namely No Poverty; Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure; and Partnership for the Goal.

The Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) is committed to providing high-quality education. It has been successfully accredited by ASIIN (Akkreditierungsagentur für Studiengänge der Ingenieurwissenschaften, der Informatik, der Naturwissenschaften und der Mathematik) for its undergraduate and master programs, as well as Excellent (Unggul) accreditation from LAMSAMA (Lembaga Akreditasi Mandiri Sains Alam dan Ilmu Formal). The faculty is preparing to achieve ASIIN accreditation for its doctoral program and LAMSAMA accreditation for its master and doctoral programs.

In efforts to enhance the quality of education and in preparation for ASIIN international accreditation and LAMSAMA national accreditation, the Faculty of Biology UGM conducted an integrated Internal Quality Audit (AMI) on October 9, 2024. The audit involved a team of external auditors, including Muhlisin, S.Pt., M.Agri., Ph.D., IPP (Faculty of Animal Science, UGM), Yunika Mayangsari, S.Si., M.Biotech., Ph.D. (Faculty of Agricultural Technology, UGM), Dr. Nurfitri Ekantari, S.Pi., M.P. (Faculty of Agriculture, UGM), and Dr. Widya Wasityastuti, M.Sc., M.Med.Ed., Ph.D. (Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing, UGM). The internal audit team included Dr. Ardaning Nuriliani, S.Si., M.Kes., Dra. Tuty Arisuryanti, M.Sc., Ph.D., Prof. Dr. Diah Rachmawati, S.Si., M.Si., and Drs. Ign. Sudaryadi, M.Kes. The audit encompassed evaluations at various levels, including the faculty level, the Undergraduate Program (S1), the Professional Program for Biodiversity Curators, and the Master Program (S2) and Doctoral Program (S3).

During the AMI opening ceremony, the Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM, Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., emphasized that the internal quality audit is a regular agenda aimed at ensuring the continuous improvement of educational quality in alignment with UGM’s vision, “Ginong Prati Dino.”

The faculty-level audit was attended by the faculty leadership, including the dean, vice deans, head of department, and academic staff representatives. Meanwhile, the program audits were attended by the head of study program, lecturer representatives, and student representatives. Upon the completion of the audit process, the findings and observations from the auditors will be further discussed in a Management Review Meeting (RTM) as a step toward enhancing the quality assurance system. This process aligns with UGM’s commitment to achieving Sustainable Development Goal No. 4, which focuses on providing quality education.

The waste problem in Sleman Regency, Special Region of Yogyakarta, has become a major challenge in recent years. This issue directly impacts the quality of life of residents, ranging from environmental pollution to health problems. In response to this urgency, the Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka (MBKM) Team from the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) 2024, supervised by Dr. Ardaning Nuriliani, S.Si., M.Kes., along with team members Anida Safriyani, Nailah Aufa Khansa Darin Azhar, Rizquita Brillianti, and Safia Putri Sakanti, students of the 2021 class of the Faculty of Biology, UGM, felt the need to provide assistance related to waste management and the initiation of a Waste Bank in Dusun Pajangan, Wedomartani, Ngemplak, Sleman.

This program was carried out in collaboration with the Takmir of Masjid Jami’ Darussalam, represented by Mr. Gunardi S.Si. The program’s approach was implemented in stages, beginning with a survey to map the waste management habits of Pajangan Hamlet’s residents. The survey was conducted on September 28, 2024, involving around 40 residents, aged between 14 to 70 years. The program continued with a socialization event titled “Waste Management and Waste Bank Initiation in Pajangan Hamlet, Wedomartani, Ngemplak, Sleman” on October 5, 2024. During this event, the MBKM team explained the types of organic and inorganic waste, as well as management techniques using the 4R principles (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Replace). The team also presented the concept of the waste bank and the steps to initiate it. This program supports the achievement of several sustainable development goals, namely no. 3 (Good Health and Well-being), no. 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), and no. 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

During the socialization, the residents were very enthusiastic and showed a high interest in understanding proper waste management practices. The discussions were also filled with active participation from the residents. As an initial step for the establishment of the waste bank, the MBKM team provided several bins for separating organic and inorganic waste. The main goal was to foster awareness and initiative among Dusun Pajangan residents in sorting their waste, while also serving as the first step towards establishing a waste bank in the village. This activity is expected to increase the knowledge and awareness of the residents of Dusun Pajangan, Wedomartani, Ngemplak, Sleman regarding the importance of proper waste management in their surroundings. By applying waste management practices in daily life, residents are expected to improve their well-being, standard of living, health, and add economic value through household waste management.