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SDG 3 : Establish Good Health and Well-Being

Potential for Biodiversity Monitoring through eDNA and Next-Generation Sequencing Metabarcoding: Integrated Genome Factory (IGF) Conducts MasterClass for Researchers at Universitas Sriwijaya

News Release Monday, 4 November 2024

As a mega biodiversity country, Indonesia possesses extensive biological resources that hold significant potential not only for bioprospecting but also for biodiversity monitoring research. Distribution and biodiversity have become key indicators of environmental quality. With the advent of next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies, biodiversity monitoring can now leverage environmental DNA (eDNA), facilitating rapid and comprehensive community assessments. This approach enables the detection of a wide range of taxa, including not only conventionally sampled flora and fauna but also microbial communities that remain unculturable through traditional methods.


As part of its commitment to advancing research capacity, the Integrated Genome Factory (IGF) recently hosted the IGF MasterClass, a specialized training in eDNA metabarcoding for researchers from Universitas Sriwijaya. Held from October 28 to 30, 2024, at the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), Yogyakarta, the event commenced with an opening address by Dr. Slamet Widiyanto, S.Si., M.Sc., Vice Dean for Finance, Assets, and Human Resources at UGM’s Faculty of Biology. Dr. Dwi Sendi Priyono, S.Si., M.Si., the Master Trainer, initiated the training with an in-depth introduction to eDNA theoretical foundations. The first day included field-based eDNA sampling techniques, led by Assistant Andryan, followed by DNA extraction and PCR sample preparation conducted by Adhisa F. P., S.Si., and Ashfiya Hanif, S.Si.

Once participants mastered rigorous sampling methodologies and acquired high-quality samples, IGF personnel guided them through hands-on library preparation workflows on the second day. This session was designed to prepare participants for metabarcoding sequencing using the Nanopore platform. The participants engaged enthusiastically, actively participating in each step of the training process.

On the third day, the focus shifted to the data interpretation necessary for accurate metabarcoding analysis. Dr. Dwi Sendi Priyono, S.Si., M.Si., led sessions on Nanopore software operation, data refinement, processing, and best practices for achieving publication-standard representation of sequencing data. Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., Vice Dean for Research, Community Engagement, Cooperation, and Alumni at UGM’s Faculty of Biology, concluded the event, expressing hope that the training outcomes would be directly applied by the researchers in their respective institutions and foster future collaborations with IGF and the Faculty of Biology at UGM.

“This training was exceptional. The materials were presented effectively by the young, experienced trainers, making complex concepts accessible,” commented Dr. Melki, S.Si., M.Si., at the session’s close.

IGF and the Faculty of Biology UGM are committed to enhancing research capacity and collective action to conserve Indonesia’s biological diversity by advancing genomics technology through the Nanopore sequencing platform. The IGF, equipped with ONT PromethION 24 and a Data Acquisition Unit (DAU) capable of processing up to 720 Gb of DNA sequencing daily, is well-positioned to offer high-throughput sequencing services and collaborative opportunities with institutions across Indonesia.

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 Community of Kepuh Kulon RT 001, Wirokerten, Banguntapan, Bantul Through Utilizing Limited Land with Hydroponic Technology for Food Independence (Phase II): Spinach Kwetiau Noodles, Hydroponic Results for Independent Food Diversification

Cooperation Friday, 1 November 2024

Community Service Team – Independent Learning Independent Campus (PkM-MBKM) Faculty of Biology UGM 2024, chaired by Prof. Rina Sri Kasiamdari, S.Si., Ph.D. has successfully carried out a series of Community Service activities at Kepuh Kulon RT 001, Wirokerten, Banguntapan, Bantul, the second stage. The team involved four students are Nurindah Musarofah, Hasna Nabila Kusumastuti, Cindy Adisty Rudi Ananda Putri, and Amalia Rizky Fauzi carrying out a sustainable program for hydroponic cultivation technology by processing spinach into spinach kwetiau noodles for food diversification. This program is intended to provide information and guidance to the community for processing hydroponic cultivation products and food diversification. Food diversification aims to prevent constant consumption patterns of just one type of food. This semester, PkM-MBKM was held on Sunday, 27 October 2024 at 09.00 – 13.00 WIB at the house of the Head of RT 001 Kepuh Kulon, Mr. Zamzuri. This activity was greeted with enthusiasm by the residents of RT 001 Kepuh Kulon, attended by 18 women and Mr. Sunartono as Head of the Kepuh Kulon Village Hamlet. As an opening, Mr. Sunartono delivered a speech regarding the importance of applying the knowledge that has been obtained because the work of knowledge will bring benefits to society. He also hopes that there will be community initiatives to continue this program without fear of the risk and failure so that the people of RT 001 Kepuh Kulon can become productive individuals. Supporting that, Prof. Rina also said that this program was held to help increase community food independence through hydroponic food diversification. She emphasized the importance of togetherness between residents to realize the implementation of this program in the community. This activity is expected to support the local economy by introducing and improving skills in hydroponic technology and independent food production which can also open up new business opportunities.


This program takes the form of socialization and practice in making hydroponic product in the form of “Mi kwetiau bayam” or spinach kwetiau noodles. Socialization is carried out by providing information regarding the names of hydroponic processed products, what types of plants are used, the contents and benefits of spinach plants, tools and materials as well as procedures for making them. Noodles are a type of food that is often consumed by people. However, noodles generally do not contain enough nutrition. Therefore, we innovated to add spinach as a nutritional enhancer and food coloring. Spinach is known to contain several minerals, fiber, and vitamins A, C, and K which are good for facilitating digestion, controlling blood pressure, and maintaining immunity.

The practice of making hydroponic products is carried out by forming groups to provide effectiveness of the activity. The peoples were divided into two groups of 6-8 peoples, accompanied by two students to carry out independent practice. The practice began with a brief explanation of the tools and materials provided, then continues with the practice of making dough according to the recipe, and making the dough into kwetiau noodles using a noodle mill. The raw noodles are ready, processed into fried spinach kwetiau noodles by the participant and the final result is enjoyed together. It is hoped that the residents’ enthusiasm and skills in carrying out the practice will be a boost for applicants for this program. Towards the end of the activity, a mini quiz was held and residents who successfully answered were given doorprizes. The PkM-MBKM team also gave one pack of noodles along with ready-made spices and merchandise to residents so they could be used to apply it at home. Before the event closed, a symbolic memento was given from the PKM-MBKM team represented by Prof. Rina to RT 001 Kepuh Kulon presented by Mr. Zamzuri, followed by a group photo session. It is hoped that the PkM-MBKM program can provide new information and knowledge in processing hydroponic cultivation results into products that support community food diversification. This activity supports SDG 2: Zero Hunger, SDG 3: Healthy and Prosperous Lives, and SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.

 

Tagline:
#SDG 2: Zero Hunger
#SDG 3: Healthy and Prosperous Lives
#SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production

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.

Processing And Marketing Strategy: Enhancing Farmer Group Entrepreneurship Through Innovative Aquaponic-Based Products

Community Service Wednesday, 30 October 2024

The PkM-MBKM Program of the Faculty of Biology UGM, led by Prof. Diah Rachmawati, S.Si., M.Si., in collaboration with the Kelompok Wanita Tani (KWT) Amanda in Kepuh Wetan, Wirokerten, Banguntapan District, Bantul Regency, Special Region of Yogyakarta, held a circular waste management training event based on aquaponic technology and catfish farming on Sunday, October 27, 2024, from 08.30 to 11.30 AM. The PkM-MBKM team, comprising members Hanif Fauzan Saputra, Salma Nur Majidah, Maharani Pratiwi S.A., M. Reza Hendriansah, Rima Vegi Santika, Eka Nur Oktavia, Adzkiya Aqmaliza R., and Agra Daffa Putra, presented strategies for product processing and marketing, followed by a demonstration of processing techniques for products made from catfish and water spinach to maximize the added value of aquaponics.


The activity began with an introduction to the business potential of catfish and water spinach, both rich in nutrients and protein. With innovations turning these ingredients into various products, such as catfish nuggets, catfish sausages, and crispy water spinach, it is hoped that these could serve as new business opportunities for KWT Amanda. Product innovation aims to expand the market by offering a variety of healthy and nutritious local food options. In addition to product innovation, choosing of safe, efficient, and attractive packaging design is also crucial. With engaging and informative packaging, these products are expected to attract consumer interest. To support sales, the PkM-MBKM team also provided an introduction to branding and digital marketing strategies by explaining how to use social media to educate participants on effective digital marketing techniques, from understanding target consumers to utilizing social media platforms for promotion. Marketing via social media is seen as a vital factor in increasing sales and building brand awareness.

The next activity involved a product processing demonstration using aquaponics product, namely catfish and water spinach. The PkM-MBKM team provided hands-on training for KWT Amanda members on how to process catfish and water spinach into three high-value products: catfish nuggets with water spinach, crispy water spinach, and catfish sausage. During the demonstration, the KWT Amanda participants showed great enthusiasm in following each stage of product preparation, from ingredient preparation to cooking, resulting in quality products ready for the market. They paid close attention to the cooking process and actively asked questions to ensure optimal quality. After the cooking session, participants enjoyed the processed products, such as catfish nuggets with water spinach, crispy water spinach, and catfish sausages, which were delicious and had a desirable texture. KWT Amanda members also felt inspired after seeing the variations of catfish processed into different forms, such as catfish nuggets with water spinach and catfish sausage, which are more appealing to children. These processed products provide a solution for supplying high-quality protein and fiber to families, especially for children needing balanced nutrition during growth, thus fulfilling nutritional needs and ensuring a healthy life (SDG 3).

The socialization and training activities for processing aquaponics product can provide new ideas for processing to increase family income from aquaponics (SDG 4 and 8). The successful collaboration also strengthens sustainable relations between the PkM-MBKM Faculty of Biology UGM and its partners (SDG 17).

The Marine Study Group(KSK) Kopdar Alumni 2024

News ReleaseStudent Activities Tuesday, 29 October 2024

On Saturday, September 28, 2024, the Marine Study Group (KSK) of the Faculty of Biology Universitas Gadjah Mada organized the Kopdar Alumni 2024, themed “Developing Career and Further Study Plans.” This event took place at the Auditorium of the Faculty of Biology, UGM, attended by KSK Biogama members from various cohorts.


The speakers featured in this event were Basith Kuncoro Adji, S.Si., M.Sc. from the University of Birmingham, and Muhammad Arief Budhiman, S.Si. from Pertamina Foundation. They shared insights regarding their experiences after graduation, discussing topics related to further studies and career paths in environmentally focused industries. Their presentations included information on study pathways, career opportunities, and essential skills for Biology students.

The event involved guided group discussions organized by the committee. Participants were divided into small groups to create mind maps regarding their career or further study plans. These mind maps were required to encompass information on the skills needed, career objectives, and strategies to achieve them. This group discussion lasted for 30 minutes, during which participants actively exchanged ideas and visualized their thoughts through mind mapping.

Following the group discussions, each group presented their mind maps to the speakers and the audience. The speakers provided feedback and suggestions regarding the steps that could be taken to achieve their planned career or further study goals.
The event concluded with the presentation of mementos to the speakers in appreciation of their participation and the knowledge they shared, followed by a group photo session with all participants, both in-person and online.

[Author: KSK]

The Biology Student Research Team Wins Silver Medal at the 3rd International Conference of Biological Science (ICoBioS) 2024

AchivementsStudent Activities Tuesday, 29 October 2024

Biology students at Universitas Gadjah Mada made another achievement by winning a silver medal at the 3rd International Conference of Biological Sciences (ICoBioS) 2024. The conference, held by Universitas Brawijaya on September 27-28, 2024, had the theme “Recent Update in Bioinformatics, Synthetic Biology, and Nanobio Science for Better Future.” This success strengthens UGM’s standing in the international scientific community, particularly in driving innovation and progress in modern biological sciences. This achievement was achieved by Thoriq Abdul Halim, Tiara Putria Judith, and Salfa Athallah Agtari Nabillah students from the 2021 cohort, under the guidance of Dr. Ganies Riza Aristya, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., presented research titled “Comparative Analysis of DNA Barcodes Based on Nuclear and Chloroplast Genes for Phylogenetic Reconstruction of Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) in Java Island.”


In their presentation, the team discussed the importance of sugarcane (S. officinarum L.) production, which contributes to 80% of global sugar production. Despite Java Island supplying 61% of the national output, Indonesia only produced 2.23 million tons of sugar in 2019, while imports reached 5.46 million tons in 2021, mainly from Thailand. The low sugarcane yield is due to the narrowing of genetic diversity caused by domestication. Given the complexity of the genome and the difficulty in distinguishing morphological characteristics, the team utilized DNA barcoding techniques to analyze genetic variation in nuclear DNA and chloroplast DNA of sugarcane. This research aims to identify intra- and interspecific genetic variation among sugarcane cultivars as part of efforts to improve varietal identification, agricultural productivity, and food security in Indonesia.

The theme and goals of this research align with UGM’s commitment to supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDGs No.2 on ending hunger and enhancing food security, and SDGs No.12, which focuses on sustainable production and consumption through efforts to increase sugarcane productivity and reduce dependence on sugar imports in Indonesia.

UGM Faculty of Biology MBKM Research Team Actively Participates in ICOBIOS X OBC 2024 International Conference at Brawijaya University to Support the Development of Environmentally Friendly Bioinsecticides

News ReleaseStudent Activities Thursday, 24 October 2024

The MBKM Research Team from the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), consisting of Fanny Najmi Faza and Syafa Erista Hidayah, actively participated in the ICOBIOS X OBC 2024 international conference, organized by the Indonesian Biology Generation (INBIO-Indonesia) at Brawijaya University, Malang, on September 28-29, 2024.

ICOBIOS is an international forum that brings together researchers, academics, and practitioners from various countries to exchange ideas and the latest discoveries in biological sciences. This year, ICOBIOS X OBC 2024 adopted the theme “Recent Updates in Bioinformatics, Synthetic Biology, and Nanobio Science for a Better Future,” aiming to explore innovations in bioinformatics, synthetic biology, and nanobio science. Through seminars, panel discussions, workshops, and interactive scientific competitions, participants are able to deepen their knowledge and expand their professional networks, fostering future collaborations.

At this event, the MBKM Team presented their research under the guidance of Dr. Woro Anindito Sri Tunjung from UGM’s Faculty of Biology and Dr. Didik Huswo Utomo from INBIO-Indonesia. Their research focused on screening 10 species of Citrus plants in Indonesia, including Kaffir lime (Citrus hystrix), Key lime (Citrus aurantifolia), Mandarin orange (Citrus reticulata), Sweet orange (Citrus sinensis), Pomelo (Citrus maxima), and Lemon (Citrus limon), known to contain volatile compounds capable of disrupting the olfactory system of mosquitoes and even causing their death.

This research aims to identify the most effective citrus species in controlling Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, the vector of Dengue Fever, using an in silico approach. The results indicate that among the 10 species, four citrus plants—C. hystrix, C. aurantifolia, C. reticulata, and C. limon—show the greatest potential as bioinsecticide agents due to their high levels of the volatile compound Terpinen-4-ol, which strongly interacts with the mosquito odor receptor protein (Ace-1).

These findings are expected to support the development of environmentally friendly bioinsecticide products that can be applied by the public, reducing the use of conventional chemical insecticides that contribute to environmental pollution. Additionally, this research contributes to several targets of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being, SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals. This research strengthens collaboration between academics, researchers, and practitioners to develop sustainable, nature-based solutions for public health challenges.

The Faculty of Biology UGM’s Professor Serves as Keynote Speaker at the 31st International Symposium of Physiology for Health.

News Release Wednesday, 16 October 2024

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.

The Faculty of Biology Organized Seminar on Environmentally Friendly Organic Waste Management with Catalytic Microbes and Biostimulant Applications in Agriculture and Horticulture at Condong Catur Village.

Community Service Wednesday, 16 October 2024

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.