YOGYAKARTA, 11-13 November 2026. The Animal Systematics Laboratory, Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), in collaboration with the Indonesian Quarantine Authority (Barantin), organized a Technical Training on the Identification and Testing Techniques and Methods of Environmental DNA (eDNA) from 11 to 13 November 2026. The three-day event took place at The Jogja Hotel & Conference Center and the Faculty of Biology, UGM.

eDNA is genetic material released by organisms into their environment, such as water, soil, and sediment. By analyzing these genetic traces, the presence of an organism can be detected without having to capture or observe it directly. This approach complements conventional identification methods and opens new opportunities for monitoring aquatic biodiversity.

The training was attended by more than 50 fish quarantine officers from 32 provinces across Indonesia. From Sumatra, participants came from Aceh, North Sumatra, West Sumatra, Riau, Riau Islands, Jambi, South Sumatra, Bengkulu, Lampung, and the Bangka Belitung Islands. From Java, they came from DKI Jakarta, West Java, Central Java, and East Java, while Bali and West Nusa Tenggara represented Bali and Nusa Tenggara. From Kalimantan, participants came from West, Central, South, East, and North Kalimantan, and from Sulawesi, they came from Central Sulawesi, West Sulawesi, Southeast Sulawesi, and Gorontalo. From eastern Indonesia, participants came from Maluku, North Maluku, Papua, West Papua, Southwest Papua, Highland Papua, and South Papua. Their backgrounds were diverse, ranging from fish pest and disease control officers at various career levels and technicians to virus laboratory supervisors and quarantine veterinarians. This diversity enriched the discussions, as each region brings different surveillance challenges.

On the first day, the event began with a report from the chair of the organizing committee, Kurniadhi, followed by remarks from the Head of the Yogyakarta Animal, Fish, and Plant Quarantine Center (BKHIT Yogyakarta), and then the official opening by the Acting Deputy for Fish Quarantine, Sugeng Sudiarto, A.Pi., M.M., and the Director of Fish Quarantine Standards, Wahyu Widodo, S.Si., M.Si. Dr. Dwi Sendi Priyono, S.Si., M.Si., from the Animal Systematics Laboratory, opened the series of sessions by presenting the principles of eDNA and its potential for biodiversity monitoring.

On the second day, held at the Faculty of Biology, UGM, the Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Cooperation, and Alumni, Dr. Tri Rini Nuringtyas, S.Si., M.Sc., delivered welcoming remarks. She welcomed all participants to the Faculty of Biology and expressed hope that collaboration between the faculty and Barantin will continue in the future.

The second day was devoted to hands-on practice. Participants rotated through four sampling stations using different techniques, from water filtration and swabbing fish to using a water sampler, then joined laboratory demonstrations to see how samples are processed into genetic data. By combining field and laboratory practice in a single day, participants gained a complete picture of the eDNA workflow. The third day returned to The Jogja Hotel & Conference Center and focused on reading and interpreting metabarcoding data, a DNA analysis approach that allows many groups of organisms to be identified from a single sample. The training concluded with a discussion and a post-test to evaluate participants’ understanding.

Alongside Dr. Dwi Sendi Priyono, seven members of the Animal Systematics Laboratory team took part. Zafiero Hasby Dzikri guided participants in determining sampling points and getting to know eDNA sampling equipment. Adelia Yusuf Ardhani explained DNA extraction techniques for environmental samples. Farach Najad Izzati, S.Pd., presented the concept of qPCR, while Annisa Rohanifah, S.Pd. Gr., showed participants how to read qPCR results. Salman Ali Nazar, S.Si., introduced the concept of metabarcoding, after which Anisa Handani Uno, S.Pd., and Birrul Qisty Mutmainnah Nazara, S.Si., guided participants step by step in reading and processing metabarcoding data.

The event brought together academic expertise and the field needs of quarantine officers. The Animal Systematics Laboratory prepared the materials and facilitated the hands-on sessions, while Barantin supported the organization and brought participants from regional work units with day-to-day surveillance experience. Cross-institutional collaboration of this kind is important so that molecular technology can be applied appropriately and responsibly.

For Barantin, eDNA also holds potential to support non-invasive screening and surveillance of fish diseases, including in the export and import of fish. However, eDNA is intended to complement, not replace, the standard validated testing methods used in quarantine decision-making.

Through this training, both parties hope to strengthen human resource competence in molecular biology and to continue their collaboration. This effort is aligned with SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 14 (Life Below Water), and SDG 15 (Life on Land).

KUALA LUMPUR, 11 November 2026 — The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), and the Faculty of Applied Sciences and Technology, Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia, signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) on a Double Degree Programme at the 6th International Conference on Biology (ICB) in Kuala Lumpur.

The LoI was signed by the Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM, Prof. Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, S.Si., M.App.Sc., and the Dean of the Faculty of Applied Sciences and Technology, Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Noor Azura binti Awang. The signing was witnessed by the Provost of Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia, Prof. Dr. Abdul Mutalib bin Leman; UGM’s Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs, Prof. Bambang Retnoaji, M.Sc.; and the Head of the Undergraduate Study Program, Sukirno, Ph.D.

The agreement builds on ten years of collaboration between the two institutions. Both faculties will now align curricula, credit recognition and student mobility, ahead of a formal Memorandum of Agreement.

“This double degree is a natural step after a decade of working together. Our students will learn in two academic cultures and graduate ready for the regional and global bioinnovation,” said Prof. Eko.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Noor Azura said the programme brings together UGM’s strength in tropical biology and Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia’s expertise in applied science and technology.

Looking ahead, both parties hope to enrol the first double degree cohort soon. They also plan to extend cooperation to postgraduate programmes, joint research in biodiversity and bioinnovation, and wider staff and student exchanges. The partnership is expected to become a model for ASEAN higher education cooperation in the life sciences.

The collaboration also supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The double degree advances quality, internationally recognised education (SDG 4), while joint work in bioinnovation strengthens research and innovation capacity (SDG 9). The shared focus on tropical biodiversity contributes to the protection of life on land (SDG 15). Above all, the decade-long Indonesia–Malaysia partnership shows how universities can work together to achieve the goals (SDG 17).

Tags: #SDG4 #SDG9 #SDG15 #SDG17

Lichen is a mutualistic symbiotic organism composed of a fungus and an alga. As a composite life form, lichen plays vital ecological roles and holds broad potential for various applications, such as pharmaceuticals, food resources, and natural dyes. In an effort to support biodiversity research and environmental conservation, the Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), in partnership with the Mount Merapi National Park (TNGM) Authority, conducted collaborative exploratory research to map the species diversity of foliose lichen in the TNGM region. Beyond enriching scientific data, this collaboration represents a concrete implementation of the UGM Faculty of Biology’s curriculum in producing excellent Bachelor of Science (S.Si.) graduates in Biology. Led by UGM Faculty of Biology lecturer Ludmilla Fitri Untari, S.Si., M.Si., the study involved three undergraduate students: Aan Nur Risla Wardana, Adha Nurkholifah, and Dwi Pramesti Wahyuningtias. The research aimed to reveal the species diversity of foliose lichen and examine the relationship between environmental factors and their abundance in the Mount Merapi area.

The study on foliose lichen comprised two main stages: field exploration and laboratory analysis, conducted from May to December 2026. Sampling was carried out on the southern slopes of Mount Merapi, specifically at Klangon Hill in the Cangkringan Resort and Deles Indah in the Kemalang Resort of Mount Merapi National Park (TNGM). These locations were chosen for their diverse mountain forest habitats, which offer high potential for foliose lichen growth. Field data collection utilized the cruising method paired with abiotic factor measurements, including light intensity, temperature, and air humidity. The collected specimens were subsequently identified at the Plant Systematics Laboratory, Faculty of Biology UGM, through morphological and anatomical characterization, simple spot testing for chemical compounds, and molecular-based identification.

This collaborative research also supports the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in education, biodiversity conservation, and academic partnerships. The activity aligns with SDG 4 – Quality Education, through student involvement in field research-based learning. Students gained hands-on experience in sampling, species identification, environmental parameter measurement, and ecological data analysis. The study further supports SDG 15 – Life on Land, by documenting foliose lichen diversity to enrich biodiversity data in the Mount Merapi region. This information is expected to serve as valuable supporting data for future research on terrestrial ecosystems and biodiversity conservation efforts. Additionally, the collaboration between lecturers and students reflects the spirit of SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals, demonstrating cooperation in research execution, scientific skill development, and strengthening academic contributions to environmental studies.

Yogyakarta, November 3, 2026 – The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), held a Guest Lecture featuring Dr. Erhan Yalçındağ from the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and the Division of Epidemiology, The Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, on Monday afternoon (2/11). Hosted at the Auditorium Biologi Tropika, Faculty of Biology UGM, the lecture carried the theme “Genetic Application in Biomedical Research: From Gen to Health and Animal Health – Tools, Insights and Real-World Applications.”

The event commenced with opening remarks by Prof. Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM. In his remarks, he expressed his appreciation for Dr. Erhan Yalçındağ’s visit and the opportunity to share research knowledge and experience with the Faculty of Biology UGM academic community.

During the lecture, Dr. Erhan Yalçındağ discussed the application of genetic approaches in biomedical and animal health research, with particular emphasis on non-invasive sampling strategies to support infectious disease surveillance. The presentation covered various sampling methods, the use of genetic markers, and genomic analysis approaches to identify and understand viral characteristics. One of the examples discussed was environmental surveillance of Avian Influenza Virus (AIV), including monitoring viral evolution, distribution patterns, and risk assessment. The application of Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) and Oxford Nanopore technologies was also highlighted as part of efforts to develop surveillance methods that provide more comprehensive genomic insights.

Beyond serving as a platform for knowledge exchange, the event also marked an initial step for the Faculty of Biology UGM in exploring potential research collaborations with University of Edinburgh. One of the key areas of interest for future collaboration is Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR). AMR remains a major global health challenge that requires strengthened research efforts, science-based approaches, and multidisciplinary collaboration to support prevention and control strategies.

Through this event, the Faculty of Biology UGM hopes that the knowledge exchange and academic connections established will lead to concrete collaborative initiatives, particularly in biomedical research, animal health, and AMR. This initiative also reflects the Faculty’s commitment to strengthening the internationalization of education and research while contributing to addressing global health challenges.

The event also contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) through strengthening health-related research, SDG 4 (Quality Education) through academic knowledge exchange, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through the development of international partnerships and research collaborations.

The Laboratory of Animal Structure and Developmental (SPH), Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), hosted an educational visit for 51 students from SMPIT Muhammadiyah An Najah, Klaten, accompanied by eight teachers, on Monday, October 26, 2026. This activity was organized as part of their Biology curriculum, specifically focusing on animal histology and anatomy through a hands-on laboratory practicum and direct observation.

The session began with opening remarks from the Head of the Laboratory, Dr. Ardaning Nuriliani, M.Kes. During the visit, the students had the opportunity to deepen their understanding of animal body structures and the relationship between the structure and function of organs through practical, experience-based learning. A key highlight was a dissection practicum involving tilapia, guided by 10 students from the Laboratory of Animal Structure and Development, ranging from undergraduate to master’s and doctoral levels. Through this exercise, the students were introduced to animal dissection procedures that adhere to the principles of animal welfare. Furthermore, the students studied the topography of the animal’s body and learned to identify the arrangement and location of various internal organs within the tilapia.

To further their understanding of animal body structures, the students also examined histological slides of several types of organs. This allowed them to identify the cellular and tissue components that make up these organs through microscopic observation. Consequently, biological concepts, previously studied only theoretically in the classroom became more tangible through direct observation and hands-on practical experience.

This initiative is expected to enhance the students’ knowledge, practical skills, and overall interest in Biology and the broader life sciences. These laboratory-based learning activities also serve as a form of support for achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4 Quality Education by providing contextual and interactive learning experiences that foster the development of students’ competencies.

Beyond the benefits for the students, these activities reflect the role of higher education institutions in supporting the educational process at the secondary school level. The collaboration between the Faculty of Biology, UGM and SMPIT Muhammadiyah An Najah Klaten is expected to strengthen partnerships between educational institutions and promote the sustainability of science-based educational programs. This effort aligns with SDG 17 Partnerships for the Goals, which emphasizes the importance of inter-institutional collaboration in supporting sustainable development. Through these educational initiatives, the Laboratory of Animal Developmental Structure at the Faculty of Biology, UGM, contributes to expanding access to applied science learning while strengthening the synergy between universities and schools to enhance the quality of education.

Contributors: Sefi Nur Anggaeni, S.Si. and Dr. Ardaning Nuriliani, S.Si., M.Kes.

Yogyakarta, 29 October 2026 – The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), welcomed a delegation from Curtin University, Australia, on Thursday (29 October) to explore opportunities for academic and research collaboration between the two institutions. The delegation consisted of Priya Saracik, Global Partnerships Consultant, and Dr. Hendra Gunosewoyo from Medicinal Chemistry, School of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Sciences, Curtin University.

The visit was received by Dr. Tri Rini Nuringtyas and Matin Nuhamunada, Ph.D. as Office of International Affairs Faculty of Biology. The meeting provided an opportunity for both institutions to introduce their respective academic and research strengths and identify potential areas for future collaboration.

Discussions on research collaboration highlighted two promising areas: natural products and biodiversity, and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). These areas offer opportunities to explore joint research initiatives by leveraging the complementary expertise and research capacities of both institutions. The collaboration is expected to foster interdisciplinary research and contribute to scientific advancements in biodiversity-based research and addressing global health challenges, particularly antimicrobial resistance.

In addition to research collaboration, both institutions also explored the possibility of establishing an undergraduate double-degree program for students enrolled in the International Undergraduate Program (IUP) in Biology and Biomedical Sciences. This initiative aims to expand international academic pathways, provide students with broader learning experiences, and strengthen the global competitiveness of graduates from both institutions.

The visit marks an important step toward establishing a stronger partnership between the Faculty of Biology UGM and Curtin University. Through continued discussions and follow-up initiatives, both institutions aim to translate these opportunities into concrete collaborative programs in education and research.

This initiative also contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) through research addressing antimicrobial resistance; SDG 4 (Quality Education) through the exploration of international double-degree opportunities; SDG 15 (Life on Land) through research on natural products and biodiversity; and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through strengthened international collaboration in education and research.

Yogyakarta, 28 October 2026 – The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), welcomed a delegation from Da-Yeh University (DYU), Taiwan, for an Information Session introducing academic collaboration opportunities between the two institutions. The session highlighted two programs: the 3+1+1 Bachelor-Master Fast Track Program in Biomedical Sciences and the INTENSE Program in Environmental Engineering.

The information session was delivered by Prof. Lee Shih-Chieh, Dean of the Office of Foreign Affairs, Da-Yeh University; Prof. Lin Yong-En, Director of the University Development Division, Da-Yeh University; and Aqilas Vierdan, Manager of the Office of International Affairs, Da-Yeh University. The delegation introduced the 3+1+1 Bachelor-Master Fast Track Program, which enables students to complete their bachelor’s degree in four years before pursuing a one-year master’s degree at Da-Yeh University. The program offers opportunities to earn an international master’s degree, access advanced learning and research facilities, develop international academic networks, and receive scholarship support based on academic performance and research publication achievements.

The delegation also presented the INTENSE Program, an industry-academia collaboration initiative supported by the Taiwanese government to develop international talent in response to industry needs. One of the programs relevant to the Faculty of Biology UGM is the Environmental Safety Engineering Practice Program for the Technology Industry under Environmental Engineering. The program offers various benefits, including scholarships, a monthly living allowance of at least NT$10,000 during the study period at DYU, and internship opportunities with a guaranteed minimum monthly salary of NT$28,000. Students may also gain employment opportunities with partner companies upon graduation.

Following the information session, the delegation participated in a discussion with the Faculty of Biology UGM leadership, attended by the Dean, Prof. Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc.; Dr. Tri Rini Nuringtyas; and Matin Nuhamunada, Ph.D., along with representatives from Taiwan Center Indonesia. The discussion focused on the technical implementation of the Fast Track and INTENSE programs, including academic arrangements and student participation mechanisms. Beyond educational collaboration, both institutions also explored opportunities to initiate joint research activities and develop academic mobility programs for students and academic staff from Da-Yeh University to the Faculty of Biology UGM.

This meeting marks an important step toward strengthening international collaboration between the Faculty of Biology UGM and Da-Yeh University, particularly in advancing higher education, research, and industry-oriented academic development. The initiative also contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) through expanded access to international learning opportunities; SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) through student capacity building and career opportunities; SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) through stronger academic-industry collaboration; and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through international partnerships in education and research.

Ain Sokhna, Egypt | October 21, 2026

The fifth day of the 3rd International Scientific Conference: One Health 2026, held at the Stella Di Mare Grand Hotel in Ain Sokhna, Egypt, featured active participation from students and faculty members of the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM). Organized by Badr University in Cairo (BUC), the conference brought together academics, researchers, and students from various countries to strengthen the One Health approach, which recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health.

During the Emerging Voices session, six UGM students from Indonesia presented their research topics alongside students from Leipzig University, Germany, and Badr University in Cairo, Egypt. The UGM student presenters included Natasyabrina (class of 2024), who discussed microplastics and heavy metal contamination in Indonesian coastal waters; Salma Farah Yumna (class of 2023), who presented on viruses affecting chili pepper plants; Amarthya Aulia Vadela (class of 2024), who addressed anthrax; Aditya Ilham Alim (class of 2024), who explored the potential of endophytic fungi in combating antimicrobial resistance; Muhammad Humam Rafi’i (class of 2024), who discussed African swine fever in babirusas in Sulawesi; and Nauval Rajwa Raysendra (class of 2023), who highlighted the potential applications of bacteriophages in biotechnology.

UGM faculty members also contributed to the scientific discussions. Dr. Sukirno presented on insect diversity and its relevance to One Health, while Dr. Dwi Sendi Priyono discussed the application of wildlife DNA forensics in supporting One Health initiatives in Indonesia during the Synergies & Systems session. Meanwhile, Prof. Budi Setiadi Daryono participated as a panelist in Panel Discussion 2: Innovations in One Health Training, contributing perspectives on the development of innovative approaches to One Health education and training.

This international academic engagement supports several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) through the advancement of integrated One Health approaches, SDG 4 (Quality Education) through student engagement and academic training, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals)through cross-border and interuniversity collaboration.

The participation of UGM students and faculty members is expected to further strengthen international academic networks, promote interdisciplinary knowledge exchange, and empower the next generation of scientists to become key contributors to the advancement of One Health initiatives in Indonesia.

Ain Sokhna, Egypt | October 20, 2026

Six students from the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), namely Natasyabrina, Salma Farah Yumna, Amarthya Aulia Vadela, Aditya Ilham Alim, Nauval Rajwaa Raysendria, and Muhammad Humam Rafi’i, participated in the activities of PROACT 2026 Winter School on October 20, 2026, at the Stella Di Mare Grand Hotel in Ain Sokhna, Egypt. The program also brought together exchange students from Leipzig University, Germany, and students from Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Egypt. The participation of students from different institutions and countries provided valuable opportunities to exchange knowledge, explore diverse academic perspectives, and establish international academic networks.

The program featured a series of interactive activities under the theme “Sand & Science: Interactive Field Operations,”including hands-on training with the Mobile Suitcase Lab, sessions on Virtual Reality (VR) and Artificial Intelligence (AI), and a demonstration of an AI-powered mosquito trap. These activities introduced participants to the application of emerging technologies in scientific research and their potential use in field-based operations.

In the evening, the program continued with the “Evening Forum: Meet the Professor.” This forum was designed to encourage direct interaction between students and professors through a shared dinner and informal academic discussions. Participants were encouraged to sit with students from different groups and countries, with at least one professor assigned to each table. This arrangement aimed to promote cross-cultural communication, expand academic networks, and provide students with opportunities to engage directly with experienced academics and researchers.

The fourth day’s activities also aligned with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Technology training and knowledge exchange supported SDG 4 (Quality Education) by promoting experiential learning and student competency development. The introduction of laboratory technologies, VR, and AI contributed to SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) by highlighting the importance of innovation and technological applications in scientific research. Meanwhile, the demonstration of an AI-powered mosquito trap was relevant to SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), as it introduced technologies with potential applications in disease vector surveillance. Interactions among students and academics from different countries also reflected SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by strengthening international academic networks and fostering opportunities for future collaboration.

Through PROACT 2026 Winter School, UGM Faculty of Biology students gained valuable opportunities to broaden their understanding of emerging technologies, enhance their cross-cultural communication skills, and establish international academic connections. These experiences are expected to contribute to their academic and professional development while encouraging future collaborations in biological sciences and interdisciplinary research.

Cairo, Egypt | October 19, 2026

Badr University in Cairo (BUC) officially opened the 3rd International Scientific Conference 2026, themed “One World, One Health,” at the BUC Conference Center on October 19, 2026. The opening day marked an important milestone in strengthening global cross-sectoral collaboration to address interconnected challenges in human, animal, and environmental health. The conference also contributed to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), by promoting integrated approaches to zoonotic disease prevention and global health.

The conference commenced with an opening session entitled “Vision to Action: Inaugurating the One Health Future,” led by Prof. Dr. Adel Abdelkhalek, Dean of Veterinary Medicine and Conference Chairman, followed by an introduction to the conference by Dr. Ahmed Abd El Wahed. The opening ceremony was attended by several distinguished figures, including Prof. Dr. Ashraf Elshihy, President of Badr University in Cairo; Dr. Hassan El-Kalla, Head of the Board of Trustees; Dr. Magdy Hassan from the Egyptian Veterinary Syndicate; Prof. Dr. Mohamed Saad from the General Organization for Veterinary Services; Dr. Heba Mahrous, representing the World Health Organization Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean (WHO-EMRO); and representatives of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).

As a demonstration of its commitment to strengthening international cooperation, in line with SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), the opening ceremony also marked the formal establishment of international collaborations between BUC and representatives from four countries: Uganda, Somalia, Indonesia, and Romania. In this occasion there was also a handover of the One Health Collaboration MoU between the Faculty of Biology UGM and Badr University in Cairo represented by Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M. Agr. Sc. This significant occasion was highlighted by the presentation of the International One Health Center Leadership Medals, the exchange of commemorative gifts, and a group photograph.

One of the highlights of the conference was the participation of Dr.rer.nat. Abdul Rahman Siregar, S.Si., M.Biotech., from the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), Indonesia, as one of the featured speakers in the panel discussion entitled “Borders & Boundaries: Global One Health Paradigms.” He joined a distinguished group of multidisciplinary experts from various countries, including Dr. Ahmed Abdulkadir Hassan (Somalia), Dr. Fatima Aldariweesh (Kuwait), Prof. Dr. Uwe Truyen (Germany), Prof. Dr. Daliborca-Cristina Vlad (Romania), Dr. Heba Mahrous (WHO-EMRO), and Prof. Ioan Pet (Romania). The interactive discussion highlighted the importance of transcending geographical boundaries and strengthening international collaboration to address emerging global health threats through integrated One Health strategies.

During the afternoon session, the conference shifted its focus toward translating scientific research into practical solutions through a session entitled “Translating Science to Solutions.” Prof. Hyung Wook Kwon (South Korea) presented innovative artificial intelligence (AI)-based mosquito trapping and screening technologies, while Prof. Qigai He (China) shared strategies for commercializing scientific discoveries into practical products. These efforts to translate research into real-world applications reflected the objectives of SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) by promoting technological advancement and innovation. The session was followed by an industrial innovation presentation by IFT Corporation, as well as poster exhibitions and sponsor showcases during the lunch break.

The subsequent session, “Synergies & Systems: Expanding the Global One Health Network,” featured presentations highlighting One Health initiatives and collaborative networks across different countries. These included a presentation by Prof. Dr. Tri Wibawa from Universitas Gadjah Mada, Indonesia, entitled “One Health Initiatives in Indonesia,”, Prof. Dr. Ahmad Hamedy (Germany), who discussed food hygiene practices, and Prof. Yahya Dieye (Senegal), who presented disease prevention networks in Africa. Toward the conclusion of the academic sessions, “BUC Frontiers”showcased recent scientific breakthroughs and research achievements from Badr University in Cairo.

The first day of the conference officially concluded with the announcement of poster exhibition winners, the presentation of certificates to local participants, and a group photograph featuring all participating delegations. Through its diverse scientific sessions and international knowledge exchange, the conference not only strengthened academic understanding and research collaboration in support of SDG 4 (Quality Education) but also expanded international partnerships aimed at building resilient and sustainable global health systems.