SDG 15 : Advance Life On Land

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UGM Double Degree Doctoral Student from Faculty of Biology Wins Poster Prize at the 77th Annual Conference of the German Society for Hygiene and Microbiology (DGHM) 2025

Achivements News Release Friday, 26 September 2025

Yogyakarta/Jena – September 2025

Tiara Putri, a double-degree doctoral student from the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, in collaboration with the University of Greifswald, Germany, has been awarded one of the Poster Prizes at the 77^th Annual Conference of the German Society for Hygiene and Microbiology (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Hygiene und Mikrobiologie, DGHM), held this year in Jena, Germany.

The DGHM conference is one of the most renowned microbiology meetings in Europe, attracting hundreds of researchers and clinicians working in the fields of infectious diseases, microbiology, and immunology. Winning this prize underscores the high quality of UGM’s international research collaborations and the contributions of its students to global scientific advancement.

Out of 188 poster presenters from various countries, including Germany, South Africa, Bulgaria, and Algeria, only five participants were selected for the award — with Tiara being among this distinguished group of winners.

The awarded poster, titled “Impact of pneumolysin, hydrogen peroxide, and Streptococcus pneumoniae strains on blood–CSF barrier integrity in a human choroid plexus co-culture model,” presents novel insights into the mechanisms by which Streptococcus pneumoniae, a major human pathogen, compromises the integrity of the blood–cerebrospinal fluid barrier. The study contributes to a better understanding of bacterial meningitis pathogenesis, with potential implications for future therapeutic strategies.

“This recognition is not only a personal honor but also a reflection of the strong academic collaboration between UGM and the University of Greifswald,” Tiara said.

Tiara also shared that the conference was especially meaningful for her because the organizers provided a free childcare facility throughout the three-day conference. Children of participants were cared for by a professional Tagesmutter (childminder), allowing parents to attend the scientific sessions with peace of mind. “I truly appreciated this family-friendly facility that understands the needs of researchers who are also parents. It was very helpful for me, especially since I live in Germany alone with my children and could not leave them at home,” she added.

This achievement shows how strong academic support, combined with a family-friendly conference environment, can truly help researchers (especially those who are also parents of young children) to thrive and gain recognition internationally.

Biology for Environment and Humanity: Faculty of Biology UGM Celebrates 70 Years of Contribution Toward Global Sustainability

News Release Monday, 22 September 2025

Yogyakarta, 18 September 2025 – The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), held the peak ceremony of its 14th Lustrum and 70th Anniversary on Thursday (18/9) at the Tropical Biology Auditorium. Carrying the theme “Biology for Environment and Humanity”, the event reaffirmed the Faculty’s commitment to advancing environmental sustainability and improving the quality of human life, both nationally and globally. The ceremony was also broadcast live through the Faculty of Biology UGM’s YouTube channel, enabling wider public participation.

The Open Senate Meeting was attended virtually by the Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology of the Republic of Indonesia, Prof. Brian Yuliarto, S.T., M.Eng., Ph.D., who emphasized the importance of collaborative tropical biology research to address future challenges in food, energy, and the environment. The Rector of UGM, Prof. dr. Ova Emilia, M.Med.Ed., Sp.OG(K), Ph.D., expressed her appreciation for the Faculty’s achievements in generating impactful innovations in tropical biology. She further highlighted UGM’s position, through the Faculty of Biology, as a National and International Center of Excellence in Tropical Biology.

The keynote scientific lecture was delivered by Drs. Heri Susanto, S.Si., M.M., Managing Director of Rentokil Initial (Indonesia, Sri Lanka & Maldives), with a presentation entitled “The Role and Application of Biology in the Pest Management Industry in Indonesia and the World”. He emphasized the critical role of biology in integrated pest management to support food security, public health, and the sustainability of environmentally conscious industries.

Meanwhile, the Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM, Prof. Dr. Budi S. Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., presented the Faculty’s accomplishments over the past five years, including the strengthening of tropical biotechnology research, the development of international curricula, and the contributions of alumni across various sectors. He also announced the soft launching of the Bio Medic Center building plan, envisioned as a new center of excellence for tropical biodiversity-based biomedical research and services.

The Open Senate Meeting served as the main agenda of a series of Lustrum XIV and 70th Anniversary activities that had been held since May 2025. These included a Fun Walk, Book Review and Blood Donation Drive, National Seminar on Tropical Biology, International Summer Course, Alumni Gathering, and the BioToprak Creative Stage. All activities were designed to strengthen the networks among academics, alumni, and partners, while reinforcing the Faculty’s role as a leading center for tropical biology at both the national and international levels.

The event also featured the signing of memorandums of understanding with PT. Biogen, the Marine and Fisheries Office of the Special Region of Yogyakarta, and St. Augustine Catholic University, focusing on collaboration in education, research, and community service.

“The theme Biology for Environment and Humanity serves as a reminder that innovations in biology must always be directed toward sustainable solutions for the planet and the welfare of humankind,” remarked Prof. Budi S. Daryono.

UGM and UWE Strengthen International Collaboration on Regenerative Agriculture Research

News Release Monday, 1 September 2025

Yogyakarta, 30 August 2025 — The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), and the School of Applied Sciences, University of the West of England (UWE), held an online meeting on Friday, 29 August 2025, to strengthen research and educational collaboration between the two institutions.

The meeting was attended by key representatives from both universities. From the Faculty of Biology UGM, participants included Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration, and Alumni Affairs; Dr. Nur Indah Septriani, M.Sc., Head of the Office of International Affairs (OIA); and Mukhlish Jamal Musa Holle, DPhil., lecturer at the Laboratory of Ecology and Conservation. From UWE, Dr. Adrian Crew, Head of the MRes Applied Sciences Program, joined the meeting along with one of his students, Tawny Bucks.

The agenda focused on updates regarding ongoing joint research projects and discussions on future opportunities for collaboration in both research and teaching. One of the key highlights was a project conducted in Simeuleu Island, Aceh, which emphasizes regenerative agriculture practices to support ecosystem sustainability and improve community well-being. The project is a collaborative effort between UGM and UWE, with direct involvement from Tawny Bucks and Syefrina Rosyida, an alumna of UGM’s Master Program in Biology.

Both institutions reaffirmed their commitment to continue the collaboration on an equal and sustainable basis. As an initial step, they agreed to develop a concept note that will serve as the foundation for further research projects in regenerative agriculture.

“This meeting marks an important momentum to strengthen research synergy between UGM and UWE, especially on global issues such as sustainable agriculture and conservation,” said Dr. Eko Agus Suyono.

The collaboration is expected not only to generate academic innovation but also to deliver real solutions to environmental and social challenges, particularly in remote areas such as Simeuleu. It also opens up wider opportunities for students and researchers from both institutions to engage in international academic activities. In line with the commitment to support the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this initiative contributes to enhancing food security (SDG 2), strengthening climate action (SDG 13), and promoting the sustainable protection of terrestrial ecosystems (SDG 15). Through this partnership, UGM and UWE are taking concrete steps to integrate academic research with global sustainable development objectives.

Graduation Ceremony for Undergraduate Students, Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada – Period IV, Academic Year 2024/2025

News Release Thursday, 28 August 2025

The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, once again held the graduation ceremony for undergraduate students of Period IV, Academic Year 2024/2025. The event took place on Wednesday, 27 August 2025, at the Tropical Biology Auditorium, Faculty of Biology UGM. A total of 147 graduates were officially conferred the degree of Sarjana Sains (S.Si.) or Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.). This solemn yet festive occasion was made possible through the collaboration of the entire academic community of the Faculty of Biology UGM, supported by 33 student organizers from the Biology Student Executive Board (BEM Biologi UGM), who ensured the smooth running of the ceremony.

From noon, the campus atmosphere was filled with excitement and joy as graduates and their families gathered to witness one of the most memorable moments of their academic journey. The ceremony began promptly at 13:00 WIB with an opening by the Master of Ceremony, followed by the entrance of graduates and faculty leaders into the auditorium. The event continued with the singing of the Indonesian national anthem Indonesia Raya, the Hymne Gadjah Mada, and the Mars Biologi, led by Biotimbre.

The agenda proceeded with the graduation report delivered by Sukirno, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., Head of the Undergraduate Program. In his report, he stated that 147 graduates had successfully completed their studies at the Faculty of Biology UGM. This was followed by the announcement of the graduation list of all 147 graduates, which was met with enthusiastic applause from families and invited guests.

The ceremony then continued with a speech by the representative of the graduates, Vincencio Valdy Putra Sasangka, S.Si., who also achieved the highest GPA of 3.99. In his address, he expressed gratitude and appreciation for the support of his family, lecturers, and the entire academic community throughout his studies. This was followed by a speech from the representative of parents, delivered by Mr. Tresnawan Budi Sasangka, S.E., father of Vincencio Valdy Putra Sasangka. He expressed gratitude for the guidance given by the Faculty of Biology UGM and extended prayers and best wishes for the graduates as they begin a new chapter of life with courage, sincerity, and a spirit of contribution to society.

Another significant moment was the pinning of the KABIOGAMA pin by Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., Vice Dean for Research and Alumni Affairs, to a representative of the graduates. This symbolic act marked the official induction of the graduates into Keluarga Alumni Biologi Gadjah Mada (KABIOGAMA), the alumni network that actively contributes both academically and socially. The event continued with a speech by the Dean of the Faculty of Biology, Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., who expressed appreciation for the students’ dedication and encouraged the graduates to uphold the good name of the Faculty of Biology UGM wherever they may contribute.

As a token of appreciation, the graduates presented the faculty with mementos consisting of one unit of air cooler and five folding laptop tables. The ceremony continued with a joint prayer for the graduates’ success in their new journey. The event was officially closed by Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., Dean of the Faculty of Biology, followed by a joyful photo session with graduates, faculty leaders, and lecturers.

The celebration reached its peak with a graduation parade led by Double Helix. Cheers from families, friends, and peers accompanied the graduates as they exited the auditorium, symbolizing the beginning of a new chapter in their lives. The Period IV graduation ceremony was not only a celebration of academic achievement but also a starting point for graduates to dedicate themselves to society, the nation, and the world. The Faculty of Biology UGM hopes that its graduates will carry forward their knowledge, experiences, and spirit of togetherness to bring about positive change across various fields of life. [Writer: Aulia Annisa Azzahra]

UGM–ANU Collaboration Produces First Graduate of Biology Double Degree Program

News Release Tuesday, 26 August 2025

Yogyakarta, August 26, 2025 –The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), celebrates a historic milestone as Sabut Kharisona, B.Sc. (hons.) (IUP cohort 2021), officially becomes the first graduate of the International Undergraduate Program (IUP) Biology with a Double Degree (DD) scheme.

Sabut embarked on his double degree journey in the Fall Semester of 2023/2024 at the College of Science, Australian National University (ANU)—a globally renowned research university. During his studies at ANU, he not only pursued academic excellence but also actively engaged in diverse research and cultural activities.

In 2023, Sabut participated in a prestigious Summer Research Internship with the Research School of Biology, College of Science ANU, where he gained hands-on experience in cutting-edge biological research. Beyond the laboratory, he served as a Residential Mentor at Lena Karmel Lodge, providing guidance and support to fellow international students. Furthermore, he showcased Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage by leading the Sedulur Monco Gamelan Ensemble in Canberra.

Sabut completed his study program through a final project entitled: “Effects of Temperature Variability Across Habitat Scales on Animal Distribution and Adaptation”, a research topic that highlights urgent global issues of climate change and species adaptation. His work strongly aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 13: Climate Action and SDGs 15: Life on Land.

Reflecting on his achievement, Sabut expressed his gratitude:

“I am grateful that the Biology IUP UGM has established collaboration with ANU, which gave me the opportunity to pursue a double degree program at ANU. This experience has broadened my academic perspective and built invaluable international networks.”

The Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM, Prof. Dr. Budi S. Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., emphasized the significance of this achievement:

“Sabut is the first graduate of the Biology IUP Double Degree program. This marks the Faculty of Biology UGM’s strong commitment to providing international exposure for our students, and we will continue to enhance such opportunities in the future.”

Sabut Kharisona’s accomplishment is not only a personal success but also a cornerstone for the Faculty of Biology UGM in advancing world-class, inclusive, and sustainable education. This achievement also strengthens the faculty’s commitment to supporting SDGs 4: Quality Education and SDGs 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

UGM Biology Graduate Student Explores Forensic Science at the Police Forensic Laboratory Center in West Java

News Release Monday, 25 August 2025

Rindu Aurantika, a Master’s student from the Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), took part in an internship at the Forensic Chemistry and Biology Division, specifically in the Biology-Serology Subdivision, at the Police Criminal Investigation Agency’s Forensic Laboratory Center (Puslabfor Bareskrim Polri) in Sentul, West Java. The internship ran from July 1st to 31st, 2025, under the academic supervision of Prof. Dr. Niken Satuti Nur Handayani, M.Sc., and field supervision by Riski Suranto, S.Si. This internship program was not only joined by UGM students but also involved participants from Universitas Negeri Jakarta (UNJ), Universitas Diponegoro (UNDIP), and Universitas Brawijaya (UB).

Over five weeks, the internship was designed in stages to help students understand the full forensic examination process, from the beginning to the end of the program. In the first week, students were introduced to the organizational structure of Puslabfor, the role of the Biology-Serology Subdivision, and administrative tasks like archiving forensic reports from police departments across Indonesia. This initial stage showed that archiving is not just paperwork—it plays a critical role in legal processes.

In the second week, students got to know the various labs within the Biology-Serology Subdivision, including the serology lab, human DNA lab, non-human DNA lab, and microbiology lab. In the third week, students participated in examining biological evidence such as bloodstains, semen, hair, and body tissue. They also worked with other items often found at crime scenes, like clothing, tissues, drink bottles, cigarette butts, and more. During the fourth week, the focus shifted to more complex samples like bones and nails. Students also conducted genetic analysis using a Genetic Analyzer based on capillary electrophoresis technology. In the fifth week of the program, students repeated DNA extraction procedures and learned how to input DNA data into the detainee database system. The program ended with the preparation of a final report summarizing everything they had learned during the month-long internship.

This experience was a valuable opportunity for Rindu’s academic journey. “Internship at Puslabfor allowed me to see how biological science is applied in real-world of forensics. Each step, from serology testing to DNA interpretation, requires a high level of accuracy because the results directly impact criminal investigations,” she shared. Beyond improving her technical skills in forensic biology, the internship also helped strengthen her discipline and sense of responsibility. It is hoped that programs like this will support the growth of forensic science in Indonesia, through better education and research opportunities. [Author: Rindu Aurantika]

Faculty of Biology UGM Supports Capacity Building for Educational Laboratory Technicians at Polbangtan Yogyakarta Magelang

News Release Friday, 15 August 2025

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).

Faculty of Biology UGM Welcomes Dutch Biotechnology Expert to Explore Clove Conservation Collaboration

News Release Thursday, 14 August 2025

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.

Spice Research Team of INUCoST, Faculty of Biology, UGM, Undertakes Exploration in East Kalimantan

News Release Monday, 11 August 2025

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)

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

2 : Zero Hunger

8 : Decent Work and Economic Growth

12 : Responsible Consumption and Production

15 : Life on Land

17 : Partnerships for The Goals

Tracing 9th Century Fauna in Prambanan Reliefs, Biology Students Support Biodiversity Conservation (SDG 15)

News Release Student Activities Wednesday, 30 July 2025

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.

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