• Home
  • SDG 15 : Advance Life On Land
  • SDG 15 : Advance Life On Land
  • page. 3
Arsip:

SDG 15 : Advance Life On Land

Faculty of Biology Successfully Held Level II Tissue Culture Training

News Release Wednesday, 20 November 2024

Yogyakarta, 18 and 19 November 2024 – The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada successfully held Level II Tissue Culture Qualification Scheme Training, located in the Upper Conference Room and Biotechnology Laboratory, Faculty of Biology UGM. This activity is part of a series of Competency Tests for the Level II Tissue Culture Qualification Scheme which will be held on Thursday (21/11), which is managed by the Biotechnology Competency Test Center (TUK) of the Faculty of Biology UGM.


Prof. Dr. Endang Semiarti, Chief Executive of TUK, said in his speech that the activity was attended by 12 participants from student, lecturer and researcher backgrounds including from the Indonesian Education University (UPI), Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), Universitas Riau (UnRi), State University Medan, PPKS Bogor Unit, and PUIPT Microalgae Biorefinery UGM.

Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM, Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., attended and opened the Level II Tissue Culture Qualification Scheme Training, Monday (19/11). He expressed his support for the continuation of the Biotechnology Competency Test at the Faculty of Biology which is supported by the Agricultural Professional Certification Institute (LSP) under the National Professional Certification Agency (BNSP). The presence of the Dean of the Faculty of Biology was accompanied by Dr. Slamet Widiyanto, M.Sc. as Vice Dean for Finance, Assets and Human Resources Affairs, and Abdul Razaq Chasani, Ph.D. as Head of TUK Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology, UGM.

The first day of training was filled with lectures and discussions with Prof. Dr. Endang Semiarti, M.S., M.Sc. entitled “Introduction and Basics of Tissue Culture Techniques”, and Aries Bagus Sasongko entitled “Competencies in Tissue Culture Techniques”.

The second day was a practical agenda held at the Biotechnology Laboratory and Karanggayam Research Station, Faculty of Biology UGM. The practicum consists of preparing mother plants and explants, introducing the tools used, medium, and basic techniques used in tissue culture, as well as practicum at the research station.

This training is part of the UGM Faculty of Biology’s commitment for sustainable development goals (SDGs), especially in educational inclusiveness and contribution to ecosystem conservation. It is hoped that this training will provide insight, especially to the participants, and society in general.

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 70th birthday, 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.

  1. Prof. Dr. Suwarno Hadisusanto, S.U. – The Variations and Multifunctions of Inland Waters
  2. Prof. Dr. Tri Retnaningsih Soeprobowati, M.App.Sc. (Universitas Diponegoro) – Paleolimnology for Sustainable Lake Management
  3. Prof. Dr. Agatha Sih Piranti, M.Sc. (Universitas Jenderal Soedirma) – Cultural Eutrophication of Lakes/Reservoirs and Mitigation Efforts
  4. 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.

  1. Dr. Ir. Sri Puji Saraswati, DIC., M.Sc. (UGM) – Eco-Hydrology of Aquatic Communities Amid Infrastructure Development
  2. Dr. Puguh Sujarta, S.Si., M.Si. (Universitas Cenderawasih) – Shallow Marine Conservation Culture
  3. 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.

  1. Dr. Ike Nurjuwita Nayasilana, S.Si., M.Si. (Universitas Sebelas Mare) – Water Conservation and Wildlife
  2. Dr. Susintowati, S.Si., M.Si. (Universitas 17 August 1945) – Serious Threats to Coastal Communities
  3. 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.

  1. Dwinda Mariska Putri, S.Si., M.Sc. (National Research and Innovation Agency) – Vertical Distribution of Zooplankton in Lake Laut Tawar
  2. Heni Wahyu Sartika, S.Si., M.Sc. (UGM) – Belik River as a Flowing Water Management Model During the COVID-19 Pandemic
  3. Maria Eva Kristiyani, S.Si., M.Sc. (De Britto College High School) – Coastal Waters for Aquaculture
  4. 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 UGM Collaborates with Mount Merapi National Park Authority to Conduct Research on Lichen Diversity

News Release Thursday, 14 November 2024

Through the Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka (MBKM) Research Grant, a team of students from the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), is conducting research on lichen diversity within the Mount Merapi National Park (TNGM). The team comprises Ananda Briliana Romadhona, Christabel Reviana Septianingtyas, Intan Luthfianawati, Irfan Agus Nugroho, Irfan Ari Prasetyo, and Laila Nurul Ilma, under the guidance of Ludmilla Fitri Untari, S.Si., M.Si., and field supervisor Dr. Pairah, S.Si., M.Si. The research project is titled “Diversity of Lichen Flora in the Musuk-Cepogo Resort Area of Mount Merapi National Park.”


Lichens are symbiotic organisms resulting from mutualism between fungi and algae. They play a role in biogeochemical cycles and hold significant potential for bioprospecting applications. Despite their ecological and biotechnological importance, lichen research remains scarce in Indonesia, including within the Mount Merapi National Park, which likely harbors high lichen biodiversity.

The study, conducted between August and November 2024, focused on three specific sites within the Musuk-Cepogo Resort Management Area (RPTN) of Mount Merapi National Park: Gunung Bibi Forest Block, Gobumi, and Sudimoro. Specimen identification was carried out in the Plant Systematics Laboratory of the Faculty of Biology, UGM, using morphological, anatomical, and secondary metabolite tests, including spot tests.
The research identified 65 lichen species across 26 genera from the three study sites, indicating a relatively high diversity in the area. These findings contribute to the understanding of Indonesia’s floral biodiversity and underline the ecological significance of lichens in tropical forest ecosystems.

This study aims to enhance knowledge of Indonesia’s flora and provide a valuable contribution to society. The expected outcome from this research is a Monograph of Lichen Flora in Mount Merapi National Park, which will serve as a resource for conservation efforts and further scientific inquiry.

(Written by: Ananda Briliana Romadhona, Irfan Agus Nugroho, Laila Nurul Ilma)

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).

Wukirsari Partner Village Program: Utilization of Compost and Liquid Organic Fertilizer for Plants and the Benefits of Medicinal Plants #4

Cooperation Monday, 4 November 2024

In the midst of heavy rain on Friday 1 November 2024, the Community Service team of Wukirsari Village carried out the final agenda of a series of activities for the Partner Village Program, Faculty of Biologi UGM 2024. This event focused on the utilization of compost and liquid fertilizer for medicinal plants (TOGA). This meeting served as an application of the outcomes from the earlier meeting of the Wukirsari Partner Village Program, specifically related to composting and the production of liquid organic fertilizer. The event was opened by Prof. Rina Sri Kasiamdari, S.Si., Ph.D., followed by a presentation by Dr. Wiko Arif Wibowo, S.Si.


“Medicinal plants (TOGA) are household remedies that have long been utilized by the community, particularly for cooking purposes,” stated Dr. Wiko at the beginning of his presentation to the 31 members of the Wukirsari PKK who attended. Various herbal roots (such as turmeric, ginger, and aromatic ginger), lemongrass, and bay leaves are examples of TOGA plants that offer numerous health benefits. Recipes can be adjusted according to the desired use by adding other ingredients like lime juice, lemon, and honey—for example, a mixture of lime, ginger, and honey to treat cough and cold; turmeric for fever or diarrhea; and lemongrass with honey for gallstones. TOGA plants can be consumed by drinking the juice directly or by boiling them first.

In rural areas, where there may still be plenty of open land, TOGA plants can be grown directly in the ground rather than in pots or polybags. “Compost can be added to the planting medium in equal proportions. In contrast, liquid organic fertilizer should first be diluted with water to avoid high concentration, for instance, with a 1:10 ratio,” explained Dr. Wiko.

After the presentation on the topic of TOGA, the activity continued with an explanation of the Spirulina microalgae harvesting process, which had been cultivated in a previous session. Assisted by four students—Tia Erfianti, Renata Adaranyssa Egistha Putri, Seisha Salsabila Rosandi, and Abdurrahman Muhammad Fikri Rasdi—the harvesting process was demonstrated, including filtering, drying, grinding (into powder), and packaging. Together, the members of PKK Wukirsari filtered Spirulina from several gallons of culture. The filtered product was then dried, either by sun-drying or using an oven, to obtain dried sheets. These sheets can be consumed directly or ground into powder using a blender. The amount of product obtained depends greatly on the concentration or quantity of microalgae in the culture; the more intense the green-blue color, the greater the yield. Each session of the day included discussions and Q&A with participants. A quiz session with door prizes for correct answers made the atmosphere even more lively and exciting.

In today’s meeting, the Wukirsari Partner Village Program faculty team, represented by Prof. Dr. Diah Rachmawati, S.Si., M.Si., Dr. Maryani, M.Sc., Utaminingsih, S.Si., M.Sc., Novita Yustinadiar, S.Si., M.Si., and Dr. Siti Nurbaiti, presented various TOGA plants. Different of plants, including betel, lemongrass, bay leaves, turmeric, pandan, binahong, and various citrus varieties (such as lemon, lime, sour lime, and kaffir lime), totaling 10 types and 68 plants, was given to the members of PKK Wukirsari who attended.

At the closing session, led by Dr. Maryani, M.Sc., the faculty team and the Wukirsari PKK members exchanged thanks for the opportunity to collaborate throughout the Partner Village Program. Today’s event aims to enhance community knowledge and contribute to broader benefits, supporting Indonesia’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 2 – Zero Hunger, SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being, SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production, and SDG 15 – Life on Land.

PkM-MBKM Faculty of Biology UGM 2024: Empowering the Sendari Hamlet Community, Tirtoadi Village, Mlati District, Sleman, through Education on Organic Waste Management and Air Pollution Mitigation Using Plants

Community ServiceWaste Management Thursday, 31 October 2024

Yogyakarta, October 26, 2024 – The Community Service Team of the Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka (PkM-MBKM) Program from the 2024 Biology Study Program conducted a community service activity titled “Processing Inorganic Waste and Combating Air Pollution Using Plants” on Saturday, October 26, 2024. Guided by supervising lecturer Mrs. Novita Yustinadiar, S.Si., M.Si., this event aimed to raise community awareness of sustainable inorganic waste management and the utilization of plants to reduce air pollution caused by waste incineration and motor vehicle emissions.


The event began at 2:00 PM WIB with an opening address from Mrs. Novita Yustinadiar, S.Si., M.Si., followed by the main presentation delivered by Aisyah Balqis Febriana. In her session, Aisyah explained that inorganic waste such as plastic, bottles, paper, and cardboard can be sorted and sent to waste banks for recycling, thereby enhancing their utility. Additionally, the concept of waste-to-energy was introduced, specifically the use of waste combustion heat as an environmentally friendly source of electricity, similar to Japan’s use of incineration technology. However, this technology is not yet feasible in Indonesia due to technological limitations. Currently, many people resort to burning waste to eliminate it, which has negative consequences for the environment, health, and society. One example discussed in the session was the production of microplastics from waste burning, which can contaminate soil, water, and air, posing risks to human, animal, and plant health. Thus, raising awareness about the dangers of waste burning and exploring alternative solutions for inorganic waste management is essential. In addition to recycling through waste banks, other potential solutions for managing inorganic waste include creating crafts and upcycling waste into valuable and marketable items. The session also covered air pollution mitigation using plants, including types of plants that absorb air pollution and the mechanisms by which plants reduce pollutants.

Following the presentation, Wisnu Prabowo conducted a hands-on demonstration, showing participants how to make sofa cushions filled with clean, recycled plastic, followed by the distribution of cushion covers and plastic zip covers to all attendees. Then, Ardiah Pramesti Cahyani presented a tutorial video along with a display of creative items made by the student team, such as lanterns from plastic spoons, flowers from plastic bags, flowers from used plastic bottles, frames from bottle caps, flower pots from bottles, and glass bottle vases for water propagation. These creations served as daily-life inspirations for repurposing inorganic waste.

Participants engaged in a Q&A session and took a post-test to assess their understanding of the material. Attractive door prizes, including air-purifying houseplants and other gifts, were awarded to participants who actively engaged in the discussion. The event concluded with a recap video of the PkM-MBKM 2024 program, highlighting the series of environmental education activities.

The program closed with a farewell from Mrs. Novita, a group photo session with all participants and the team, and the distribution of souvenirs as tokens of appreciation. This community service program, which concluded at 4:00 PM WIB, is hoped to provide the community with new insights on environmental preservation through waste management and plant use as a solution for air pollution mitigation. We extend our gratitude to the Faculty of Biology for funding this event through the 2024 PKM-MBKM Grant, hoping it will continue to benefit the broader community.

BiOSC Stadium Genarale 2.0: Orchid Identification through Flower Dissection to Support Orchid Conservation in Indonesia

Student Activities Monday, 28 October 2024

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

Professor from Okayama University, Japan Gives Guest Lecture on Rice Immunity Research

CooperationNews Release Monday, 28 October 2024

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).