Arsip:
SDG 4 : Provide Quality Education
On July 16 and 17, 2024, a research team from the Faculty of Biology at Gadjah Mada University (UGM), led by Prof. Dr. Ratna Susandarini, M.Sc., conducted an ethnobotanical survey as part of a collaborative effort on the Bioprospecting of Medicinal Plants with the Mount Merbabu National Park Authority. The survey took place in the Ampel and Kopeng Resorts within the Mount Merbabu National Park.
The primary objective of this collaboration is to gather data on the use of medicinal plants by the local communities living around the national park. This initiative is crucial for the conservation of biodiversity and the sustainable use of natural resources. The research team collected information through interviews with local residents, who shared their traditional knowledge on the medicinal properties of various plants.
Following the data collection from the community, the team conducted a field survey to collect samples of the medicinal plants mentioned. This fieldwork is essential for the bioprospecting process, which aims to identify plants with potential biomedical applications. The collected samples will be analyzed in the laboratory to determine their chemical composition and potential health benefits.
Prof. Dr. Ratna Susandarini emphasized the importance of this research in contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in the areas of health, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable use of ecosystems. “Our work here not only aims to discover new medicinal compounds but also to promote the conservation of plant biodiversity in Mount Merbabu National Park,” she stated.
The collaboration between UGM and the Mount Merbabu National Park Authority is a significant step towards integrating traditional knowledge with modern scientific research. This approach not only respects and preserves the cultural heritage of the local communities but also enhances the scientific understanding of medicinal plants.
The Mount Merbabu National Park, known for its rich biodiversity, provides an ideal setting for this type of research. The park is home to numerous plant species, many of which have been used traditionally for medicinal purposes. By documenting and studying these plants, the research team hopes to contribute to the global knowledge of medicinal biodiversity.
The local communities play a vital role in this research. Their traditional knowledge and practices are invaluable resources for identifying plants with medicinal properties. The involvement of the community also ensures that the benefits of the research are shared with those who have preserved this knowledge for generations.
The field survey in the Ampel and Kopeng Resorts was conducted with the support of the Mount Merbabu National Park Authority, which provided logistical assistance and access to the research sites. This collaboration highlights the importance of partnerships in achieving conservation and sustainable development goals.
The findings from this research will be published in scientific journals and shared with the local communities and relevant stakeholders. This dissemination of knowledge is crucial for promoting the conservation of medicinal plants and their sustainable use.
In conclusion, the bioprospecting survey of medicinal plants in Mount Merbabu National Park is a significant initiative that combines traditional knowledge with modern science. It aims to contribute to the conservation of biodiversity, the discovery of new biomedical compounds, and the sustainable use of natural resources, aligning with the broader goals of the SDGs.
Yogyakarta, 17 July 2024 – The second lecture session in the series of the 7th International Summer Course in Sustainable Development, Faculty of Biology Universitas, Gadjah Mada was held after the opening and first online lecture session, last Monday (15/7). Dr. Nick Girkin from the School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, United Kingdom was present as a resource person at the second session of the lecture with the title “Sustainable Tropical Agriculture” as part of the main theme of this year’s summer course, Sustainable Bioprospecting of Tropical Biodiversity.
Faculty of Biology UGM lecturer as well as Chief Executive of this year’s summer course, Mukhlis Jamal Musa Holle, M.Env.Sc., D.Phil., acted as moderator for the second lecture session. He introduced Dr. Nick as a speaker from the University of Nottingham with his presentation which raised the issue of sustainable agriculture.
Dr. Nick started the lecture by asking the participants a question: what are the sustainability challenges in tropical agriculture? Dr. Nick mentioned several serious challenges to agriculture today: climate impact, soil erosion, water pollution, land use, greenhouse gas emissions, and high production costs. The urgency of this challenge leads to several main problems including climate change, food security, and carbon emission reduction targets.
Climate change, land degradation, and pests and diseases are at least a concern for the agricultural corps, including tea, coffee and cocoa plantations. This condition has impacts on reducing the quality of production, water resources, outbreaks and decreasing the population and diversity of pollinators. Dr. Nick mentioned the use of alternative fertilizers, agroforestry, ecological management and minimizing the use of pesticides as mitigation efforts. This is different with non-perennial plants such as rice, Dr. Nick said the DNDC system or DeNitrification-DeComposition) is a rice farming model that can simulate the greenhouse gases produced.
The summer course participants were enthusiastic in attending all the lectures, it is hoped that through these activities students can contribute to innovation in the development of sustainable agricultural systems while maintaining the balance of the ecosystem and biodiversity within it.
Yogyakarta, 15 July 2024 – The 7th International Summer Course on Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development continues to provide inspiration and education by raising the topic “Sustainable Bioprospecting on Tropical Biodiversity.” The series of activities began with the opening which took place on Monday (15/7) afternoon which was followed by online lectures.
The International Summer Course on Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development (ISC) is an annual activity regularly held by the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada. In its seventh year, 37 students from 6 countries (Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Japan, Pakistan and Thailand) and 12 universities will participate in all activities and 18 participants from 5 other countries (Myanmar, Netherlands, Algeria, India, and Egypt) participated in the online lecture series. ISC also involves experts from various countries to participate as speakers including from Malaysia, Great Britain, Japan, Australia, South Korea, Thailand, the Philippines, Egypt and Indonesia.
The ISC’s chief executive, Mukhlis Jamal Musa Hole M.Env.Sc., D.Phil., gave a speech at the online opening on Wednesday (15/7). He also explained series of online and offline activities that would be carried out until early August. Activities will focus on education on sustainable bioprospecting and tropical biodiversity in Indonesia.
The agenda continued with an online lecture moderated by Nur Indah Septriani, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D. and speaker Ts. Dr. Noor Jannatun Naim Binti Jemali from the University of Malaysia Kelantan. Dr. Jan gave a lecture focusing on the prospects for forest resources. In her lecture, Dr. Jan highlighted the various functions of forests that produce wood and non-wood products. She emphasized the critical challenge of tropical forest degradation and deforestation, and noted forest loss of 90% in the last six decades. This alarming rate of deforestation underscores the importance of continued bioprospecting and conservation efforts.
This first lecture is expected to provide knowledge about the urgency of conservation and preservation of forests and ecosystems in supporting sustainable development. Efforts to support the issue of forest conservation and climate change are also being promoted through ongoing collaborative discourse between the state and universities.
A team of undergraduate students from the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, class of 2022, led by Azra Belva Naprilian, along with Kotimah and Ridho Nur Alam, won 1st Runner-Up in the essay competition AGRIXPLOSION organized by the Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Sebelas Maret Surakarta (UNS). The competition, sponsored by Pertamina, revolved around the theme “Implementing Innovation to Reach Net Zero Emission for a Sustainable Future” featured participants from various universities across Indonesia. The competition included several stages: administration and essay submission, followed by an online presentation on Sunday, June 30, 2024.
In this competition, the biology team presented an essay titled “Utilization of Biofertilizer and Spirulina sp. as Micro-remediators in the Conservation Efforts of Acacia mangium Forests in Post-Tin Mining Ecosystems in Bangka Belitung,” under the guidance of Tyas Ikhsan Hikmawan, M.Sc., Ph.D. This innovation addresses the environmental damage caused in Bangka Belitung, the largest tin-producing region, where natural resource exploitation without maintenance efforts has led to ecosystem pollution. The essay proposed a biofertilizer formula combining various microbes capable of micro-remediation of post-mining land. Additionally, the innovation included using a combination of biofertilizer and Spirulina sp. to enhance biofertilizer as a supplementary nutrient provider for microorganisms within it.
Reclamation of post-tin mining land in Bangka Belitung is a crucial step in addressing ecosystem damage caused by mining activities. The combination of micro-remediators and the utilization of microalgae Spirulina sp. can effectively remediate heavy metals. Moreover, biofertilizers can restore essential nutrients and improve soil structure. The planting of Acacia mangium as a phytoremediator has also proven effective in restoring the balance of ecosystems in former mining lands, given its adaptability to heavy metal-contaminated soils. This innovation is expected to minimize the negative impacts of mining and support forest conservation and environmental sustainability in the region. This strategy aligns with The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) point 15, related to sustainable management of post-mining land, ensuring ecological recovery, and soil productivity for the future.
[Authors: Azra Belva Naprilian and Kotimah]
**Jakarta, July 1-5, 2024** – Dr. Dwi Sendi Priyono, a lecturer from the Biology Department of Gadjah Mada University (UGM), has been invited to serve as a judge at the National Science Olympiad for Elementary and Middle School Levels (OSN-P). The event, organized by the Indonesian Talent Development Center, National Achievement Center, Secretariat General, Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology, took place from July 1 to July 5, 2024.
The National Science Olympiad at the provincial level (OSN-P) for elementary (SD/MI) and middle school (SMP/MTs) students was conducted using the Computer-Based National Assessment (ANBK) application. This innovative approach ensures a fair and efficient evaluation process, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of promoting quality basic education and fostering development.
Dr. Dwi Sendi Priyono was among the 50 judges from various universities and institutions across Indonesia. His expertise in biology and commitment to educational development made him a valuable addition to the judging panel. The judges were tasked with evaluating the performances of 2,061 participants, a challenging yet rewarding responsibility.
The OSN-P aims to identify and nurture young talents in science, providing them with opportunities to excel and contribute to the nation’s development. By involving experts like Dr. Priyono, the event ensures that the assessment process is rigorous and credible, promoting a culture of excellence in basic education.
Throughout the five-day event, participants demonstrated their knowledge and skills in various scientific disciplines. The use of the ANBK application facilitated a smooth and transparent evaluation process, allowing judges to focus on the participants’ performance without technical hindrances.
Dr. Priyono expressed his enthusiasm for being part of the OSN-P, highlighting the importance of such events in inspiring young minds. “It’s an honor to contribute to the development of our future scientists. These young talents are the backbone of our nation’s progress,” he said.
The involvement of university lecturers and professionals in the judging process underscores the commitment to maintaining high standards in educational assessments. This collaboration between educational institutions and the government is crucial for achieving the SDGs related to quality education and sustainable development.
The OSN-P not only provides a platform for students to showcase their abilities but also encourages them to pursue careers in science and technology. This aligns with the broader goal of fostering innovation and development in Indonesia.
As the event concluded, the organizers expressed their gratitude to all judges, participants, and supporting institutions. The success of the OSN-P is a testament to the collective effort in promoting quality education and nurturing the next generation of scientists.
On Sunday, June 16, 2024, the Garden Architecture Study Group (KSAT) organized KSATalk, an online webinar with the theme Let’s Greening Your Minimal Space. The event aimed to educate participants on the steps and benefits of optimizing minimal space for home gardens. The event featured Anggia Sekar N as a speaker, a landscape architect, founder of Imah Flora and Tumpu Greenery. The event was attended by 61 participants from within and outside UGM.
KSATalk commenced with an opening and prayer led by Salsabila Nayla as MC, followed by speeches from Safina Suci Samara, chief organizer, and Anggi Nada Khoirul Ummah, Head of KSAT 2024. Proceeding to the main agenda, KSATalk guided by Endah Esthiningtyas consisted of a material presentation and Q&A session. The material covered the definition of minimal space, steps to create a garden from minimal space, and references to the garden concept. After the presentation, the event continued with a Q&A session where seven participants were allowed to ask questions. The event concluded with a documentation session and a closing prayer.
It is hoped that participants gain a deeper understanding of maximizing minimal spaces for home gardens and can effectively apply this knowledge to their own spaces. Additionally, it is expected that KSAT will continue to strengthen its roots to become a beneficial study group for the surrounding environment, academics, and the wider community.
On Friday (5/7), the Health Promoting University (HPU) team and Faculty Counselors Faculty of Biology UGM Counselors organized a training session for Buddy Counselors to prepare their skills for assisting new students in 2024. This year’s Buddy Counselor team is the second cohort following the establishment of the peer counselor team, called Buddy Counselors, by the HPU team and Faculty of Biology Counselors last year.
The Buddy Counselor 2024 team consists of 28 active students who received training and inaugurated on May 20, 2024. The training session was guided by Yudhistira Adi Perdana, M.Psi., a psychologist from the Faculty of Biology UGM . This activity is part of the HPU Faculty of Biology’s work program, chaired by Titin Fauziah, SE., MBA. The Buddy Counselors supported by the Faculty Psychologist and assisted by Faculty Counselors, including Dwi Umi Siswanti, S.Si., M.Sc., Dr. rer. nat. Abdul Rachman Siregar, M.Biotech., and Dr. Dwi Sendi Priyono, S.Si., M.Si.
The Buddy Counselors received training in active listening skills, life goal mapping, and practical sessions in active listening. This team will work alongside the PPSMB Faculty of Biology guides in assisting the 2024 new student cohort. The Buddy Counselor program is the first of its kind in the Faculty of Biology, aimed at helping new students adapt to their new environment, academic life, and all its intricacies. The team provides academic orientation and tracking the mental health of new students to minimize risks throughout their studies at the Faculty of Biology UGM.
“Active listening begins with our willingness to listen to the counselee’s story, paraphrasing, summarizing, clarifying, and providing support. We should focus on the counsellee,” explained Yudhis. “We hope that this new student assistance program becomes a tradition in our faculty, helping new students smoothly transition from high school to university life,” expressed Titin in her remarks. This assistance also facilitates the Faculty Counselors’ efforts in identifying mental health issues early and preparing measures to prevent self-harm and suicide.
[PkM – MBKM] Yogyakarta, June 25, 2024, the Community Service Team of the independent learning independent campus Program (PkM-MBKM) of the Faculty of Biology, guided by Dr. Aprilia Sufi Subiastuti, S.Si., along with three students, Nindya ‘Aisyah Cahyaningrum, Mohammad Farrel Rayyan Pratama, and Daffa Patria Putra Dewanto conducted their first series of PkM-MBKM activities in the Punthuk Kepuh Tourism Village. The event theme was “Optimization of Fruit Plant Cultivation Practices through the Application of Garden Landscape Architecture in the Yard Areas of Katongan Village’’, aimed to provide information and knowledge to the community on how to care for fruit plants in the Punthuk Kepuh tourism village and introduce simple home-scale hydroponic techniques. The event was held at Punthuk Kepuh Tourism Village Hall, began at 4:00 PM and ended at 6:30 PM’. Twenty residents attended the event, including the neighborhood leaders, the village tourism manager (Mr Riski), and the village head.
The activity involved socialization on fruit planting and home-scale hydroponic farming techniques by invited speakers, Mr. Yusuf Sulaiman and Mr Ahmad Muhlisin from PT Indigen Karya Unggul. The event commenced with a welcome speech by Mr Riski, the village tourism manager, followed by speeches from the neighborhood leaders and the village head. The event continued with presentations from invited speakers. The first presentation was delivered by Mr Yusuf Sulaiman. He shared his expertise on fruit planting, including suitable fruits to grow, watering and fertilizing techniques, and pest control measures post-fruiting. Mr. Ahmad Muhlisin led the second session on hydroponic farming, covering the essential tools and materials, the nutrients needed for hydroponic plants, and the types of plants best suited for hydroponic systems. Participants also learned about hydroponic planting and care for beginners. Mr Muhlisin also demonstrated how to grow plants hydroponically using a simple home hydroponic kit.
After the socialization, participants asked to complete a post-test and attendance check. The event concluded with a group photo. It hoped that this socialization will provide the local community with knowledge about fruit planting and care, and develop modern hydroponic farming systems to optimize the home yard areas.
Yogyakarta, 3 July 2024 – The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada received a visit from the National Development Planning Agency (BAPPENAS) of the Republic of Indonesia consisting of the BAPPENAS Forestry Directorate Team. The discussions and field visits related to research and development of genetic resources for biodiversity in Indonesia. The visit was received in the KPTU Meeting Room, Faculty of Biology UGM, also attended by Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc. as Dean of the Faculty of Biology, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.Sc. as Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration and Alumni Affairs, lecturers from various laboratories at the Faculty of Biology, as well as Head of the Agrotechnology Innovation Center UGM, Alan Soffan, S.P., M.Sc., Ph.D.
Prof. Budi as Dean of the Faculty of Biology welcomed the field visit from BAPPENAS, especially as support for the curation of genetic resources for biodiversity is very necessary for ecosystem sustainability. He, accompanied by Dr. Eko delivered a profile of the Faculty of Biology. He underlined the concern in the world of biology regarding biological curation through the establishment of a new study program at the Faculty of Biology, the Profession Program for Biodiversity Curator (PKKH).
Alan as Head of the Center for Agrotechnology Innovation UGM (PIAT) also welcomed BAPPENAS’ visit. He said that PIAT would also support efforts to manage Indonesia’s biodiversity in the future. BAPPENAS colleagues also plan to visit the PIAT UGM area in Berbah, Sleman, Yogyakarta.
Farida Yulistianingrum, S.Si., ME, MPP, from BAPPENAS, revealed that BAPPENAS is aware of the potential of Indonesia’s biodiversity and genetic resources. The BAPPENAS visit aims to explore data, information and views of experts/academics and agencies regarding gaps in the development of the genetic resource axis. These development efforts will then be continued with mapping and analysis of biodiversity in each region. Farida is also aware of the challenges related to research at the tertiary level, including regulations that are considered not support the implementation of research.
“Resource management is not yet connected, each is mostly kept at the level of individual university researchers,” said Prof. Budi. He also expressed the concerns that prompted the formation of the Indonesia Biodiversity Index (IBI) in 2019. IBI collaborates with the Indonesian Conservation Communication Forum (FKKI) and various Non-Government Organizations (NGOs) in Indonesia to collect and share biodiversity data. Prof. Budi emphasized that there is a lot of data produced by Indonesian researchers, but it is spread in the form of thesis, books, and so on. This data curation effort has been ongoing for four years, and by 2024 alone they have produced no less than 11,000 pieces of information on species status and trend data.
Dr. Miftahul Ilmi, who is under the Microbiology Laboratory of the Faculty of Biology, further added that the culture collection of various microbial genomes in Indonesia is still limited. The largest collection is currently managed by the Indonesian Culture Collection Laboratory (InaCC) of the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), while other collections are managed by researchers at various universities in Indonesia. This culture is only 0.4% of the total culture collection in the world.
Dr. Eko, with his microalgae research focus under the Biotechnology Laboratory, also conveyed the urgency in curating these cultures, including the expensive costs of maintaining cultures including human resources who can manage cultures, as well as the absence of databases, especially bioprospection databases. According to him, this database is crucial for the country’s progress, especially the contribution to various industries such as pharmaceuticals, and so on.
BAPPENAS also recognizes the limitations of policies/regulations from central to regional which still focus on economic value. Proposals regarding incentive regulations for conservation efforts or biodiversity credits in the regions still need to be evaluated as support for biodiversity conservation. Unfortunately, the model for biodiversity credit focuses more on terrestrial areas and is limited to marine areas.
The next discussion continued on concerns regarding the management of biodiversity databases in various scientific fields; entomology, wildlife and various plants are the focus of research at the Faculty of Biology UGM. Efforts to manage genetic resources are considered to be an emergency concern so that efforts are needed to manage the Indonesian database index sustainably, including the proposed biodiversity index which is a regional performance achievement.
The field visit was followed by a visit to the Genetics and Breeding Laboratory of the Faculty of Biology UGM, as well as the Agrotechnology Innovation Center (PIAT) UGM.It is hoped that the discussion between BAPPENAS and the Faculty of Biology UGM will contribute to observation, development of biodiversity governance and related regulations, so that Indonesia can become more independent in managing its biodiversity.
Caving is an activity that includes exploration of the cave system that can build up teamwork and physical health. Caving requires constant communication to ensure team safety and to overcome obstacles. Caving involves climbing, crawling, walking, and even swimming, providing an effective full-body workout. Caving also provides insights into geology, biology, and ecology, offering hands-on learning experiences, elevating our love for nature, and raising awareness for environmental conservation. In addition, caving offers unusual adventure and exploration. Every cave is unique, providing ever-new adventures and discoveries. The thrill of exploration and curiosity can be exhilarating and satisfying.
On Saturday, June 1, 2024, coinciding with Pancasila Day, Matalabiogama conducted a caving activity at Cerme Cave, a historic site and tourist attraction located in Srunggo Hamlet, Selopanioro Village, Imogiri District, Bantul Regency. Cerme Cave sits 500 meters above sea level, with a cave length of approximately 1200 meters. Cerme Cave offers the beauty of stalactites and stalagmites and features waterfalls, underground rivers, and springs flowing along the cave.
The exploration was participated by Matalabiogama members, namely Baehaki, Rendy, Sulthon, Angela, Adrian, Sebayang, Dharma, Yara, Hanan, Ahmad, & Risma. Participants departed from the Faculty of Biology UGM at 08.30 WIB and safely arrived at Cerme Cave at 09.30 WIB. Participants were ready to enter the cave under the guidance of a local tour guide, Mr. Sumarah at 10.30 WIB. The course lasted for four hours. The participants encountered various cave biota, including cave shrimp (Gammarus pulex), cave crickets (family Rhaphidophoridae), cave spiders (Amblypygi), two species of bats, and eels (Genus Anguilla sp.). Residents consider encountering eels as a sign of good fortune for visitors due to their infrequent appearances. “We may only see these fish once a month,” said Mr. Sumarah. In addition to the cave biota, participants observed various geological beauties of Cerme Cave, including stalactites and stalagmites, several springs, and shimmering calcite crystal ornaments adorning the cave walls. The exploration ended at 14.30 WIB, and by 15.30 participants returned home.
This activity benefits Matalabiogama members, fostering stronger interpersonal relationships, physical health, biological understanding, healing, and enhancing members’ cave exploration skills. It hoped similar activities would continue, potentially collaborating with other organizations [Author: Matalabiogama].