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SDG 3 : Establish Good Health and Well-Being

Keeping Research on Track, UGM Biology PhD Candidates Present their Research Progress

News ReleaseStudent Activities Monday, 22 December 2025

The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) held its Doctoral Research Progress Seminar on 18 December 2025 at the Faculty of Biology, UGM. This seminar is a mandatory academic activity as part of the Dissertation Research Courses in the doctoral curriculum.


The event commenced with a report delivered by the Head of the Doctoral Program in Biological Sciences, Prof. Rina Sri Kasiamdari, Ph.D., followed by a welcoming address and official opening by the Dean of the Faculty of Biology, Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc. In his remarks, the Dean highlighted the Faculty’s ongoing commitment to academic excellence and to advancing biological research that addresses global challenges in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

During the seminar, doctoral candidates presented updates on their research progress, discussed challenges encountered, and outlined their plans for the next phases of their studies. The seminar provided an essential platform for structured academic reflection, peer engagement, and systematic evaluation of doctoral research trajectories, ensuring that students remain on track toward timely completion of their degrees. In addition to oral presentations, students showcased their research through posters, allowing fellow students and participants to engage with and learn from each other’s work. This format provided an accessible platform to highlight individual achievements and promote knowledge exchange within the academic community.

The research topics presented showcased the Faculty’s contributions to multiple SDGs, including SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 14 (Life Below Water), and SDG 15 (Life on Land). These contributions were exemplified through studies spanning health-related biology, biodiversity, ecology, and conservation biology.

Each presentation was assessed by the Promotor Team, who provided constructive feedback and academic evaluation. Assessments emphasized the alignment of research objectives with outcomes, the rigor of scientific analysis, identification of research challenges, and clarity of future research directions, particularly in relation to sustainability goals.

Through seminars such as this, the Faculty of Biology, UGM, continues to foster a rigorous and supportive doctoral research environment, ensuring that scholarly work remains both scientifically robust and globally relevant.

Layla McKenzie: “Epic, Educational, and Memorable” – A Deakin University Student’s Exchange Story at UGM Biology Faculty

News ReleaseStudent Activities Wednesday, 17 December 2025

The Faculty of Biology at Gadjah Mada University (UGM) was proud to host Layla McKenzie, a Bachelor of Science (Environmental Science) student from Deakin University, Melbourne, Australia, who recently completed the Biology International Undergraduate Program (IUP) exchange. Inspired by basic Indonesian language lessons in primary school and geographical proximity, Layla chose UGM based on recommendations for its strong international program and the rich culture of Yogyakarta—a city she confirms is excellent for students.



Relevant Learning and Warm Interaction

Layla described her academic experience at the UGM Faculty of Biology as “great.” She enjoyed attending classes and learning from UGM lecturers, finding the campus lovely and the classrooms comfortable. Her favorite course was Environmental Science due to its high relevance to her degree in Australia. She praised the engaging topics, the assigned tasks, and the lecturer, calling the class discussions enjoyable.

Uniquely, Layla highlighted a difference in teaching style: “I find the lecturers here are more approachable compared to my home university, and there was more engagement with the students attending the lectures.”

Falling in Love with the Culture and Warm Welcome of Yogyakarta

Layla’s first impression of Yogyakarta and UGM was one of instant adoration. She praised the beauty of the UGM campus, with its many trees and cafes perfect for studying, as well as the warmth and welcoming nature of everyone she met. The UGM Biology team was also noted for being quick to answer questions and ensuring the students had everything needed to settle in. She described Yogyakarta as a city rich in culture and history.

The local cultural experiences left a strong impression, particularly the culinary scene. Layla loved eating at local warungs and getting to know the Ibu’s (mothers) at each one, who were quick to look after her and her friends. She even has favorite dishes she called “enak banget!” (very delicious!): lotek at Jasmine Corner and nasi pecel at Warung Santai. Beyond food, she enjoyed watching dance performances and visiting the beautiful temples in the surrounding areas.

Unforgettable Moments Beyond the Classroom

When asked about an “only in Indonesia” or “only in Yogyakarta” moment, Layla mentioned the surreal feeling of sitting on the back of a Gojek at night, zooming through the streets, and reflecting on the fact that she was living in Indonesia. Another spectacular moment she recalls is seeing the lava erupt at Mount Merapi, alongside many wholesome experiences of sharing meals with local people.

Outside of academics, Layla took the opportunity to travel extensively across Indonesia. Her trips included visiting Banda Aceh in Sumatra, seeing orangutans in Kalimantan, snorkeling at Karimunjawa, hiking at Salatiga, and witnessing the blue fire at Ijen. She also engaged in cultural activities, such as learning how to make batik and its history at Kota Gede.

Advice for Future Exchange Students

For future international students interested in the UGM exchange program, Layla offered some encouraging advice:

“Attend any social events organised by the university, and try to join some form of club. Try as much local food as you can and don’t be nervous about getting sick, it’s very aman (safe)! Make sure you say yes to any opportunity to experience or learn something new!”

Layla McKenzie summed up her entire UGM experience in three words: “Educational, memorable, and epic!”

Dissemination of Bioprospecting Development Results Highlights Sustainable Utilization of Medicinal Plants in Mount Merbabu

News Release Tuesday, 16 December 2025

Boyolali, 11–12 December 2025 — The Mount Merbabu National Park Authority (Balai Taman Nasional Gunung Merbabu) organized the Dissemination of Bioprospecting Development Results at Front One Boutique Adria, Boyolali. The event served as a platform to present research findings and scientific studies on the potential of medicinal plants in the Mount Merbabu area, supporting the sustainable utilization of biological resources.


The dissemination featured two speakers from the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM): Prof. Dr. Ratna Susandarini, M.Sc. and Dr. Tri Rini Nuringtyas, S.Si., M.Sc. Participants included the Head of Mount Merbabu National Park and staff, representatives from the Environmental Agency (DLH), as well as officials from the Ministry of Environment who joined the event online via Zoom.

In her presentation, Dr. Tri Rini Nuringtyas, S.Si., M.Sc. delivered research results on phytochemical profiling and evaluation of product development potential based on Centella asiatica and Selaginella. The study highlighted the presence of bioactive compounds and the prospects for developing value-added products derived from local biodiversity.

Meanwhile, Prof. Dr. Ratna Susandarini, M.Sc. presented the results of an ethnobotanical study conducted as a scientific basis for the preparation of the Medicinal Plants of Mount Merbabu book. This research documents local knowledge related to the use of medicinal plants while contributing to the preservation of traditional knowledge in harmony with conservation efforts within the national park.

Overall, ethnobotanical and bioprospecting research on plants in Mount Merbabu provides an important scientific foundation for sustainable resource utilization and plant conservation. This activity also represents the outcome of a long-standing collaboration between the Faculty of Biology UGM and the Mount Merbabu National Park Authority in research, conservation, and biodiversity utilization. The initiative aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) through the development of medicinal plant potential, SDG 15 (Life on Land) through biodiversity conservation efforts, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through strengthened institutional collaboration.

Unveiling the Chloroplast Genome of ‘Mencir’ Strawberry to Support Breeding of Superior Indonesian Strawberries

Community Service Sunday, 14 December 2025

A research team from the Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), led by Ganies Riza Aristya, Ph.D., has achieved a significant milestone in Indonesian strawberry genomic research by successfully uncovering and characterizing the complete chloroplast genome of the superior local strawberry cultivar, ‘Mencir’. This research, funded by a Fundamental Basic Research Grant from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology, successfully optimized a high-quality DNA extraction method using a modified CTAB buffer, yielding DNA with optimal purity and concentration for next-generation sequencing. Nanopore sequencing technology using the ONT PromethION platform successfully generated comprehensive chloroplast genomic data, with a total length of 155,568 base pairs, which was then assembled and annotated comprehensively.

In-depth analysis of the genome revealed the structure and organization of critical genes involved in photosynthesis and chloroplast gene regulation, namely the ndh, pet, and rpo gene groups. The mapping of exon-intron structures, analysis of conserved motifs, and 3D protein structure predictions successfully provided detailed insights into the complexity and uniqueness of each gene group. Furthermore, the research team, which includes three Faculty of Biology students—Tika Nur Amini, Andreas Wibisono, and Tan Rendy—also conducted a robust phylogenetic analysis, confirming strong kinship relationships among species within the Rosaceae family and strengthening the understanding of the evolutionary history and chloroplast inheritance patterns in the commercial hybrid strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa).

This research activity has not only produced highly valuable foundational data but has also yielded several tangible outputs, including two research publications in reputable international journals, as well as dissemination videos and posters. Synergistic collaboration with local partners—such as Inggit Strawberry Agritourism in Magelang and Sleman—and the genomics industry partner Integrated Genome Factory (IGF), has enriched the research process and ensured the applied relevance of the achieved results.

Strategically, this research achievement provides a solid scientific foundation for strawberry breeding programs based on molecular markers and gene editing technologies such as CRISPR/Cas9. In the second year, the research will focus on the functional validation of candidate genes and the identification of quantitative trait loci (QTL) for important agronomic traits, such as disease resistance and photosynthetic efficiency, which can be directly utilized by plant breeders.

Finally, this research activity directly contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 2: Zero Hunger, Achieving Food Security and Improved Nutrition, and Promoting Sustainable Agriculture. By developing superior strawberry varieties that are more productive, stress-tolerant, and adaptive to local conditions, this research promotes a more resilient and sustainable agricultural system. Additionally, through enhancing the capacity of local human resources and transferring knowledge to farmers (SDG 4: Quality Education), as well as inclusive multi-stakeholder collaboration (SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals), this research serves as a tangible example of how genomic science can be directed to support food sovereignty, community empowerment, and sustainable and equitable agricultural development in Indonesia.

Expanding International Networks, the Faculty of Biology UGM Promotes the IUP at Sangkhom Islam Wittaya School, Thailand

News Release Friday, 12 December 2025

The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), conducted a collaborative activity and introduced its International Undergraduate Program (IUP) at Sangkhom Islam Wittaya School, Songkhla, Thailand, on Wednesday, 11 December 2025. This activity was part of the Faculty’s ongoing efforts to internationalize education and expand its global academic collaboration networks.


The program was held at Sangkhom Islam Wittaya School, located at 93/2 Moo 1 Samnuktaew Sub-district, Sadao District, Songkhla, Thailand 90120. On this occasion, the Faculty of Biology UGM was represented by two delegates: Prof. Dr. Bambang Retnoaji, S.Si., M.Sc., Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs, and Dr. Slamet Widiyanto, S.Si., M.Sc., Vice Dean for Finance, Assets, and Human Resources.

The main agenda of the activity consisted of a presentation and an interactive dialogue on the International Undergraduate Program (IUP) of the Faculty of Biology UGM. During the session, the delegates introduced UGM’s education system, highlighted the advantages of the IUP, explained its internationally oriented curriculum, and outlined research opportunities as well as academic and career prospects for graduates. The discussion was highly interactive, covering admission pathways, academic requirements, and the experience of international students at UGM.

The event was attended by 50 Grade 12 students of Sangkhom Islam Wittaya School, along with six school representatives: Okta Mahendra, M.Pd.; Riesta Chania Sandy, S.Pd.; Aswina Waeiso; Nadia Sue-ri; Angkana Lae Lahman; and Wasilah Madeng. The participants showed great enthusiasm, actively asking questions about opportunities to pursue higher education at the Faculty of Biology UGM through its international programs.

Through this activity, the Faculty of Biology UGM aims to increase international students’ interest in pursuing higher education at UGM while strengthening institutional relations with partner schools in Thailand. In the future, this collaboration is expected to develop into broader forms of educational cooperation, including student exchanges and joint academic activities.

Training on Organic and Inorganic Waste Processing in Tegalrejo: A Collaboration between the Faculty of Biology UGM and Pertamina Patra Niaga AFT Adi Sumarmo under the TEH SEKAR Program

Community ServiceNews Release Friday, 12 December 2025

Tegalrejo, 11 December 2025


The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, in collaboration with PT Pertamina Patra Niaga AFT Adi Sumarmo through its assisted program Tegalrejo Hijau, Sehat, dan Berdikari (Teh Sekar), held a community service activity titled “Training on Organic and Inorganic Waste Processing” on 11 December 2025 in Tegalrejo. The training was attended by 14 participants who are members of the Miguno Waste Bank.

he training aimed to enhance the community’s capacity in proper waste sorting and processing, as well as to support environmental self-sufficiency in the Tegalrejo area. Two speakers from the Faculty of Biology UGM delivered the materials: Mrs. Novita Yustinadiar, S.Si., M.Si., who presented the topic of inorganic waste processing, and Mr. Jamal Musa Holle, S.Si., M.Env.Sc., D.Phil., who explained organic waste processing techniques.

The event began with a pre-test to assess participants’ baseline knowledge regarding waste management. During the training sessions, participants received theoretical explanations and practical demonstrations on household waste processing techniques applicable to daily activities. The training concluded with a post-test to evaluate participants’ improvement and the effectiveness of the program.

Throughout the training, participants practiced creating various recycled products, such as crafts made from plastic bottles and the making of sofa cushions and bean bags using shredded plastic fillers. This activity aimed to utilize low-value plastic waste by transforming it into economically valuable products while also reducing harmful practices such as burning plastic waste. In the organic waste processing session, participants learned compost-making using the Berkeley method (layering technique in compost bags) and organic waste processing using maggots in a maggot box.

As part of the support for empowering the Miguno Waste Bank, one unit of a plastic waste shredding machine was donated to assist in processing plastic materials used as filler for sofa cushions and bean bags. Participants also received brochures and practical guides on organic and inorganic waste processing that are easy to follow and implement independently.

This training directly supports several indicators within the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Contributions to SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) are reflected in efforts to improve environmental quality and reduce health risks associated with improper waste management. Educational materials delivered by the speakers, along with the pre-test and post-test mechanisms, reinforce SDG 4 (Quality Education). From an environmental perspective, the activity supports SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) by reducing pollution potential, and strengthens SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) by fostering environmentally conscious communities. Additionally, the training promotes SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) by improving practices of waste sorting, reuse, and recycling. The implementation of composting techniques aligns with SDG 13 (Climate Action) by helping reduce greenhouse gas emissions from organic waste. Overall, this activity exemplifies the implementation of SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through strong collaboration between the Faculty of Biology UGM, the Teh Sekar Program, and PT Pertamina Patra Niaga AFT Adi Sumarmo in advancing sustainable community empowerment.

Faculty of Biology UGM Introduces Medicinal Plants to Strengthen Science Literacy Among SDN Pusmalang Students

Community ServiceNews Release Tuesday, 25 November 2025

Sleman, 24 November 2025 — The Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) continued its community engagement efforts through the Desa Mitra (Partner Village) Program in Wukirsari Village, Cangkringan Subdistrict, Sleman Regency. In this session, the faculty team introduced Medicinal Family Plants (TOGA) to fifth-grade students of SDN Pusmalang, aiming to enhance their basic understanding of the health benefits of local plant biodiversity.


This activity is part of the Wukirsari Desa Mitra Program coordinated by Prof. Rina Sri Kasiamdari, S.Si., PhD. Faculty members who attended the event included Prof. Dr Diah Rachmawati, S.Si., M.Si.; Prof. Dra. Tuty Arisuryanti, M.Sc., PhD.; Dr. Aprilia Sufi Subiastuti, S.Si.; Dr. Wiko Arif Wibowo, S.Si.; Dr. Maryani, M.Sc.; Dr. Siti Nurbaiti, S.Si. along with doctoral student representative Sidiq Permana Putra, S.Si., M.Sc.

Held on Monday, 24 November 2025, the session was attended by more than 26 students. The teaching team consisted of Dr. Maryani, M.Sc.; Dr. Siti Nurbaiti, S.Si.; and Dr. Wiko Arif Wibowo, S.Si. During the program, the lecturers introduced various common medicinal plants, including ginger, turmeric, temulawak, kencur, lemongrass, beluntas, betel leaf, and other herbs typically found in households.

Through interactive presentations, students learned to identify the characteristics of medicinal plants, understand their health benefits, and explore simple ways to use them in daily life. The session also included direct observation of plant samples and a question–and–answer segment to reinforce their understanding.

According to Dr. Maryani, M.Sc., early exposure to medicinal plants is crucial for fostering young people’s awareness of health and Indonesia’s rich biodiversity. “Children need to reconnect with the useful plants that grow around them. Science literacy begins with simple, familiar things in their daily environment,” she explained.

As the final part of the session, the teaching team conducted a simple assessment to evaluate the students’ understanding of Family Medicinal Plants (TOGA). In this activity, students were asked to identify the names of various plants arranged on the front table. A total of 26 questions were given during the assessment. The results showed that most students were able to answer correctly, with the class achieving an average score of 60 out of 100, indicating a moderate but encouraging level of comprehension. This evaluation also demonstrated that the interactive learning method effectively supported the students’ science literacy and helped them retain essential concepts.

The activity received enthusiastic participation from the students, who enjoyed the hands-on learning experience. Teachers at SDN Pusmalang also welcomed the program, stating that it enriched students’ scientific understanding through practical and engaging activities.

This community empowerment initiative aligns with UGM’s commitment to supporting SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) by promoting health education rooted in local wisdom, and SDG 4 (Quality Education) by enhancing the quality of science learning at the primary school level. Moreover, the program strengthens collaborations between the academic community and local society as part of the Faculty of Biology’s ongoing scientific responsibility.

The Faculty of Biology hopes that this educational activity will inspire students to appreciate Indonesia’s biodiversity and recognise the importance of sustainably utilising local natural resources.

UGM Wins Overall Champion at the 2025 National ONMIPA Competition Faculty of Biology Contributes to UGM’s Historic Achievement

Achivements Monday, 24 November 2025

Universitas Gadjah Mada proudly secured the title of Overall Champion at the 2025 National Mathematics and Natural Sciences Olympiad (ONMIPA) held from 16–20 November 2025 at Universitas Padjadjaran (UNPAD), Bandung. This year’s competition brought together 251 students from 96 universities across Indonesia who had previously qualified through regional selection.

This achievement marks a historic moment for UGM, breaking the long-standing streak as runner up and reaffirming its position as a leading institution in science and mathematics education.

Among the outstanding accomplishments, the Faculty of Biology made a significant contribution through the success of Tsaqifa Zuhayra Emery Bagus, who earned a Bronze Medal in the national-level Biology category.

In total, UGM’s Biology team achieved: 1 Gold Medal; 1 Silver Medal and 2 Bronze Medals These results reflect the academic excellence, dedication, and hard work of UGM students and mentors, as well as the university’s commitment to nurturing future leaders in science.

The Faculty of Biology UGM extends its congratulations to all participating students and supervisors and expresses its gratitude to the entire academic community for their continuous support. May this achievement inspire further innovation and outstanding contributions to scientific advancement in Indonesia.

Building Plant Microtechnical Expertise: Faculty of Biology UGM Guides UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Lecturers in a Two-Day Intensive Training

News Release Friday, 21 November 2025

The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, once again held a plant microtechnique training/internship program on 18–19 November 2025 at the Laboratory of Plant Structure and Development. This activity is part of a continuous effort to strengthen competencies in plant anatomy, particularly in pollen preparation techniques and embedding methods for microscopic observation.


The training featured Dr. Utaminingsih, S.Si., M.Sc., as the main instructor, accompanied by laboratory technician Mrs. Prapti, who provided technical support throughout the practical sessions. The participant in this training was Mar’atus Sholikha, M.Sc., a lecturer from the Faculty of Tarbiyah and Teacher Training, UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung, who took part as part of her academic skill enhancement program.

The program opened with a lecture on the fundamental principles of plant microtechnique, including fixation, dehydration, infiltration, embedding, and pollen preparation methods for microscopic analysis. Following the conceptual session, participants engaged in hands-on laboratory practice, learning directly about pollen preparation techniques for observing exine and aperture structures, tissue embedding in paraffin, sectioning using a rotary microtome, slide preparation, and basic staining methods.

The training ran smoothly and interactively. The participant had the opportunity to discuss directly with the instructor regarding challenges and practical needs related to microtechnique activities in her home institution. Through this program, the Faculty of Biology UGM aims to expand academic collaboration networks and support the improvement of teaching and research quality in plant biology.

The Faculty of Biology UGM expresses its appreciation to the participant from UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung for her active involvement and collaboration. It is hoped that the skills acquired during this training will contribute to the development of practical and research activities in her institution.

The implementation of this training for academic staff from outside Universitas Gadjah Mada also supports the realization of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by strengthening partnerships and external collaboration (SDGs 17), contributing to the well-being of society (SDGs 3), and aligning with the national agenda to promote quality education (SDGs 4).

Herbal Soap-Making Practice and Training on Packaging and Marketing of Home-Garden Processed Products

Community ServiceNews Release Thursday, 20 November 2025

The 2025 PkM-MBKM Team, led by Prof. Dr. Diah Rachmawati, S.Si., M.Si. with members Jovanka, Khansa Fauziah Rachman, Samantha Sonya Putri, and Dhea Amelia, conducted a practical workshop on herbal soap production as well as product packaging and marketing for the Women Farmers Group (KWT) Amanda on Sunday, 16 November 2025, in Padukuhan Kepuh Wetan, Wirokerten Village, Banguntapan Subdistrict, Bantul Regency, Special Region of Yogyakarta. During the program, members of KWT Amanda received hands-on guidance on utilizing home-garden commodities into marketable products. The training focused on two main topics: the practice of herbal soap making and the packaging and marketing of processed products made from butterfly pea, roselle, ginger, and lemongrass. Packaging and marketing strategies are essential aspects of increasing the added value of a product, especially for home-based business groups such as KWT. Proper packaging not only functions to protect the product but also serves as a medium for information, brand identity, and visual appeal that influences consumer purchasing decisions. Meanwhile, appropriate marketing strategies whether through direct selling or the use of digital platforms can broaden market reach, improve the competitiveness of local products, and support small-scale entrepreneurs in building sustainable economic growth.


The activity began with an explanation of the herbal soap-making process, starting from the introduction of safe natural ingredients, composition comparisons, mixing techniques, and the soap molding stage. Members of KWT Amanda were also informed about the function of each ingredient, potential variations in shape and scent, as well as product safety standards to ensure consistent production. After the presentation, participants engaged in hands-on soap-making practice under the guidance of the team. The next session focused on packaging and marketing strategies for processed products made from butterfly pea, roselle, ginger, and lemongrass. The team delivered materials on basic principles of packaging design, the importance of product identity (branding), and how to create attractive and informative labels. In addition, KWT members received training on marketing local products through various channels, both direct selling and digital platforms, to strengthen the competitiveness of the products they produce.

Members of KWT actively participate in practicing making herbal soap and discussing how to independently market herbal products. Their active participation indicates that the skills provided were relevant and applicable to the development of household-scale businesses. This program is expected to enhance the utilization of home-garden resources, strengthen food resilience and independence (SDG 2), promote the use of natural and health-supporting materials (SDG 3), create opportunities for small-scale enterprises based on local potential (SDG 9), and reinforce partnerships between universities and communities (SDG 17).