SDG 4 : Provide Quality Education

Arsip:

UGM Biology Students Win Bronze Medal at The 3rd International Conference of Biological Science x Open Bioproject Competition 2024 for HIV Vaccine Development Using Bioinformatics

News Release Thursday, 10 October 2024

Malang, September 29, 2024 – A team of students from the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), has successfully earned a nomination at the 3rd International Conference of Biological Science x Open Bioproject Competition, held at Universitas Brawijaya from September 28-29, 2024.

The team, consisting of Angela Puspa Larasati (Biology, 2021), Abisha Yoofi Yudhatama (Biology, 2021), and Abigail Yemima (Biology, 2021), under the supervision of Yustinus Maladan, S.Si., M.Si., presented their research titled, “Design of an HIV-1 Epitope-based Vaccine from Glycoprotein-41 (Gp41) through a Bioinformatics Approach.” Their research earned them the Bronze Medal in the Research Competition for College Students category.

The study focused on developing an HIV-1 epitope-based vaccine using an in silico approach. Through bioinformatics, the team conducted epitope prediction targeting T lymphocytes and B lymphocytes, molecular dynamics simulations, molecular docking, and immune system simulations. This process resulted in a stable HIV-1 vaccine design with promising potential for further development.

Written by: Abisha Yoofi Yudhatama

Faculty of Biology UGM Student Research Team Received Silver Medal Award at the 3rd International Conference of Biological Science (ICoBioS) 2024 at Brawijaya University

Tak Berkategori Thursday, 10 October 2024

A team of students from the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, made another brilliant achievement by winning the Silver Medal in the prestigious 3rd International Conference of Biological Science (ICoBioS) 2024. The achievement was in line with the theme “Recent Updates in Bioinformatics, Synthetic Biology, and Nanobio Science for a Better Future” held at Brawijaya University, Malang, on September 27-28, 2024. This achievement emphasizes UGM’s position in the global scientific arena, especially in innovation and the latest advances in biological science. The team from the Faculty of Biology Universitas Gadjah Mada, consisting of Thoriq Abdul Halim, Tiara Putria Judith, and Salfa Athallah Agtari Nabillah, students of class 2021 under the guidance of Mrs. Ganies Riza Aristya, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., presented a research entitled “Comparative Analysis of DNA Barcodes Based on Nuclear and Chloroplast Genes for Phylogenetic Reconstruction of Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) in Java Island.”

In its presentation, the team discussed the importance of sugarcane (S. officinarum L.) production, which contributes 80% to global sugar production. Although Java Island supplies 61% of national production, Indonesia only produced 2.23 million tons of sugar in 2019, while imports reached 5.46 million tons in 2021, mostly from Thailand. The low yield of sugarcane is caused by the narrowing of genetic diversity due to domestication. Challenged by the complexity of the genome and the difficulty in distinguishing morphological characters, this team used DNA barcoding techniques to analyze genetic variation in sugarcane nucleus and chloroplast DNA. This research aims to identify intra- and interspecific genetic variation among sugarcane cultivars as an effort to improve the identification of superior varieties, agricultural productivity and food security in Indonesia.

The theme and objectives of this research are in line with UGM’s SDGs, particularly in supporting point 2 on ending hunger and improving food security, and point 12 which focuses on sustainable production and consumption, through efforts to increase sugarcane productivity and reduce dependence on sugar imports in Indonesia.

Internal Quality Audit 2024: The Faculty of Biology UGM Commitment to Providing High-Quality Education

News Release Thursday, 10 October 2024

The Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) is committed to providing high-quality education. It has been successfully accredited by ASIIN (Akkreditierungsagentur für Studiengänge der Ingenieurwissenschaften, der Informatik, der Naturwissenschaften und der Mathematik) for its undergraduate and master programs, as well as Excellent (Unggul) accreditation from LAMSAMA (Lembaga Akreditasi Mandiri Sains Alam dan Ilmu Formal). The faculty is preparing to achieve ASIIN accreditation for its doctoral program and LAMSAMA accreditation for its master and doctoral programs.

In efforts to enhance the quality of education and in preparation for ASIIN international accreditation and LAMSAMA national accreditation, the Faculty of Biology UGM conducted an integrated Internal Quality Audit (AMI) on October 9, 2024. The audit involved a team of external auditors, including Muhlisin, S.Pt., M.Agri., Ph.D., IPP (Faculty of Animal Science, UGM), Yunika Mayangsari, S.Si., M.Biotech., Ph.D. (Faculty of Agricultural Technology, UGM), Dr. Nurfitri Ekantari, S.Pi., M.P. (Faculty of Agriculture, UGM), and Dr. Widya Wasityastuti, M.Sc., M.Med.Ed., Ph.D. (Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing, UGM). The internal audit team included Dr. Ardaning Nuriliani, S.Si., M.Kes., Dra. Tuty Arisuryanti, M.Sc., Ph.D., Prof. Dr. Diah Rachmawati, S.Si., M.Si., and Drs. Ign. Sudaryadi, M.Kes. The audit encompassed evaluations at various levels, including the faculty level, the Undergraduate Program (S1), the Professional Program for Biodiversity Curators, and the Master Program (S2) and Doctoral Program (S3).

During the AMI opening ceremony, the Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM, Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., emphasized that the internal quality audit is a regular agenda aimed at ensuring the continuous improvement of educational quality in alignment with UGM’s vision, “Ginong Prati Dino.”

The faculty-level audit was attended by the faculty leadership, including the dean, vice deans, head of department, and academic staff representatives. Meanwhile, the program audits were attended by the head of study program, lecturer representatives, and student representatives. Upon the completion of the audit process, the findings and observations from the auditors will be further discussed in a Management Review Meeting (RTM) as a step toward enhancing the quality assurance system. This process aligns with UGM’s commitment to achieving Sustainable Development Goal No. 4, which focuses on providing quality education.

Faculty of Biology UGM Inspires Pajangan Hamlet Residents to Create Positive and Safe Content on Social Media

Community Service Thursday, 10 October 2024

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Yogyakarta, October 5, 2024 – The Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) continues its commitment to enhancing digital skills among local communities through its Community Service Program (PkM). This time, residents of Pajangan Hamlet, Wedomartani Village, Ngemplak, Sleman, Yogyakarta, received valuable insights from Zuliyati Rohmah, S.Si., M.Si., Ph.D. Eng., a lecturer from UGM’s Faculty of Biology, on how to use social media safely and become creative, positive content creators. This event is part of the Faculty’s Desa Mitra (Partner Village) program with Wedomartani Village, aimed at strengthening digital literacy among rural residents to enable them to adapt wisely to current developments.

Ms. Zuliyati shared various practical guidelines on how to utilize social media responsibly, avoid common risks in the digital world, and create content that benefits the wider community. “We hope that Pajangan residents can use social media not just for entertainment but also as a means to spread positive and empowering information for the community,” she said.

This socialization event has a broad impact aligned with several key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). First, by providing digital literacy education, it supports SDG 4: Quality Education, offering access to relevant information and digital skills for rural communities. Second, by teaching skills to become content creators, residents have the opportunity to engage in entrepreneurship and create content as part of the digital economy, contributing to SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth.

Additionally, through an understanding of digital safety, residents are expected to participate in a safer and more responsible media environment, supporting SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. The collaboration between UGM’s Faculty of Biology and Wedomartani Village also reflects SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, where harmonious cooperation between universities and communities can help achieve shared sustainable development objectives.

With this socialization effort, UGM’s Faculty of Biology hopes to provide long-term positive impacts for the Pajangan community and support inclusive and safe digital development.

Biocapture 2024: Day 1

News Release Student Activities Thursday, 10 October 2024

On Wednesday, October 9, 2024, the Faculty of Biology at Gadjah Mada University (UGM) held the first day of Biocapture (Biology Career Preparation for the Future) in the Tropical Biology Auditorium. The event commenced at 1:30 PM, hosted by Alifa Tafrinijiyah and Muhammad Haidar Ali, followed by the singing of Indonesia Raya, the Gadjah Mada Hymn, and the Biology March. The opening remarks were delivered by Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration, and Alumni Affairs.

The event was divided into two sessions, moderated by Raja Steve Sudjatmiko Panggabean. The first session, titled “Profiles of Alumni of the Faculty of Biology UGM and Career Planning Strategies,” featured Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., as the speaker. In this session, Dr. Eko emphasized that today was the biology era, highlighting the global demand for biologists. He also discussed various career strategies for biology graduates, providing examples from UGM Faculty of Biology alumni.

The second session was delivered by Chandra Gupyta, titled CV Lab: Tailoring Your Profile for Every Opportunity. This session focused on strategies for developing and customizing a curriculum vitae to effectively align with diverse career opportunities.

The 2024 PkM MBKM Biology Faculty Team Holds Eco-Friendly Aromatherapy Candle Workshop in Dusun Sendari

Community Service Wednesday, 9 October 2024

On Sunday, October 6, 2024, the Community Service Team of the Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka Program (PkM MBKM) from the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, conducted a workshop in Dusun Sendari, Sleman, Yogyakarta. The workshop was led by three lecturers, Dr. Woro Anindito Sri Tunjung, M.Si. Novita Yustinadiar, and Dr. Wahyu Aristyaning Putri, along with 12 students. This program supports the Sendari Mandiri initiative, which aims to empower the community to manage their resources independently.

With the theme “Utilizing Recycled Materials and Essential Oils to Create Eco-Friendly Aromatherapy Candles,” the program introduced creative ways to recycle materials, such as unused candles and cooking oil waste, into aromatherapy candles. These candles not only help with relaxation but also serve as natural mosquito repellents. The essential oils used in the candles contain bio-insecticidal properties that can effectively repel mosquitoes while providing a soothing scent that helps reduce stress and create a calming atmosphere at home.

The workshop took place at RT03, RW19 Dusun Sendari, at the residence of Mr. Djijana (RT head) and was attended by 27 members of the local PKK women’s organization. The event began with a pre-test and a group prayer. Annisa Fadhilah, a student member of the PkM MBKM team, explained the process of creating eco-friendly aromatherapy candles using recycled materials such as paraffin wax, used cooking oil, and leftover crayons. The team also explained how to improve the quality of used cooking oil by using activated charcoal to absorb harmful compounds, making it safe for reuse.

During the practical session, Zahra Azkia Razzak and Zahra Fitri Annisa guided participants through the candle-making process from start to finish. Participants were provided with brochures to help them replicate the process at home.

The event concluded with a post-test, the distribution of door prizes in the form of umbrellas to 10 lucky participants, and aromatherapy candles as souvenirs for all attendees. This activity supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) and SDG 4 (Quality Education).

The 2024 PkM MBKM Biology Faculty program aims to continue raising environmental awareness and empowering communities through sustainable and beneficial activities. With the skills provided, the community of Dusun Sendari is expected to make better use of waste materials, turning them into valuable products while promoting healthier and more environmentally friendly lifestyles.

CIRCULAR WASTE MANAGEMENT IN ORGANIC WASTE PROCESSING INTEGRATED WITH AQUAPONICS SYSTEM

Community Service News Release Waste Management Monday, 7 October 2024

To enhance the active role of the Women Farmers Group in supporting Circular Waste Management, the 2024 PkM-MBKM team, led by Dr. Diah Rachmawati, S.Si., M.Si., conducted an evaluation of integrated organic waste processing using the aquaponics system. This event took place on Saturday, October 5, 2024, from 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM at the Kelompok Wanita Tani (KWT) Amanda in Pedukuhan Kepuh Wetan, Wirokerten Village, Banguntapan District, Bantul Regency, Special Region of Yogyakarta. During the event, the PkM-MBKM team 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 a progress report and evaluation of the integrated organic waste processing using the aquaponics system previously implemented. The evaluation included identifying challenges encountered during the monitoring process, along with effective solutions for issues in maggot cultivation, plant cultivation via aquaponics, and catfish farming. Some obstacles included several catfish dying and plant growth being slightly slower, likely due to high ammonia levels. These issues could be resolved by more frequent water changes to prevent murkiness and reduce ammonia concentration. Additionally, selecting the appropriate plant species is crucial in an aquaponic system.

Maggots hold significant potential as feed for livestock and fish. The PkM-MBKM team also provided materials and practical training on processing maggots into livestock and fish feed using several methods, including: direct feeding of maggots for livestock or fish, drying the maggots via oven, sun drying, or roasting to produce feed with a longer shelf life, and creating powdered feed through fermentation for a finer product with even greater longevity. The next activity involved a practical session on innovating maggot-based livestock and fish feed, specifically by drying maggots in an oven. This process can be done in two ways: at a lower temperature of 60°C for 10 minutes, or at a higher temperature of around 80°C for 3 to 5 minutes. The dried maggots can be used directly as feed, offering the advantage of a longer shelf life without spoilage at room temperature.

This activity provided benefits for students by developing research and social empowerment skills, while partners gained from the optimization of waste management and increased productivity. The innovation of processing maggots into fish feed will be implemented to boost income. This collaboration strengthens the sustainable relationship between the PkM-MBKM team from the Faculty of Biology UGM and its partners (SDG 17), increases environmental awareness, and develops entrepreneurial opportunities, particularly for the KWT Amanda, contributes to the development of the community’s economy in line with Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 4 and 8).

GENTALK 5 by Formasigen 2024

Student Activities Monday, 7 October 2024

On Friday, September 19, 2024 at 13.00-14.30 WIB, Gentalk 5 was held. The event was held at the Genetics and Breeding Laboratory, Faculty of Biology UGM. The event was aimed at Formasigen students and the general public.. Gentalk serves as a platform for active discussion and knowledge-sharing between alumni or seniors and Formasigen students, as well as the public, focusing on topics related to ongoing undergraduate thesis research. The speaker in Gentalks 5 are Karso Suryo Putro, S.Si. and Vida Rahma Latifah, S.Si., alumni of the Faculty of Biology UGM, class of 2020 and under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Budi S. Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., as their undergraduate thesis supervisor.

The event began with an introduction by the MC, Thoriq Abdul Halim, who serves as the Head of the Scientific Division of the GenomCity 2024 Cabinet. The session continued with a presentation by the first speaker, Vida Rahma Latifah, S.Si., on her undergraduate thesis research topic entitled “Identification of Climacteric Behaviour in Melon (Cucumis melo L.) Based on The Expression of Ethylene-Related Genes.” Vida explained that study aims to study changes in phenotypic traits related to ripening in different melon cultivars, to investigate the expression profile of ethylene-related genes in different melon cultivars during fruit development, and to identify the type of fruit ripening behaviour in melon based on the expression profiles of ethylene-related genes and ripening-related phenotypic traits. The activity continued with a presentation by the second speaker, Karso Suryo Putro, S.Si, on her undergraduate thesis research topic entitled “Analysis of Carotenoid Biosynthesis Gene Expression Levels in Melon Plant (Cucumis melo L. ‘Gama Melon Parfum’).” Karso explained that to study aims to determine the gene expression of CmPSY, CmCRTISO, CmLCYB, and CmOR in GMP fruit under foliar K2SO4 in comparison to control; to determine the gene expression of CmPSY, CmCRTISO, CmLCYB, and CmOR in GMP fruit under soluble K2SO4 in comparison to control; and to determine whether there is any statistically significance difference in phenotypic productivity and quality characteristics of melon GMP among three treatments. The activity concluded with a question and answer session with the audience, followed by a documentation session. [Author: Formasigen]

Preparation for ASIIN Accreditation: Enhancing the Quality of Doctoral Program at The Faculty of Biology UGM to International Standards

News Release Friday, 4 October 2024

The Faculty of Biology Universitas Gadjah Mada is committed to aligning its academic programs with internationally recognized standards. Following the successful accreditation of its undergraduate and master programs by ASIIN (Akkreditierungsagentur für Studiengänge der Ingenieurwissenschaften, der Informatik, der Naturwissenschaften und der Mathematik), the Faculty is now preparing to achieve the same accreditation for its doctoral program.

On Thursday, October 3, 2024, the Faculty of Biology held a strategic meeting to organize the necessary steps for ASIIN accreditation. This effort aligns with the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) No.4 on quality education.

The meeting was attended by the ASIIN preparation team and opened by Abdul Razaq Chasani, S.Si., M.Si., Ph.D., Head of the Department of Tropical Biology, who highlighted the significance of this initiative, “This meeting marks an important step in our continuous efforts to elevate the quality of education at the Faculty of Biology. It demonstrates our commitment to meeting ASIIN’s international standards.”

During the meeting, the participants discussed the accreditation process, including curriculum development, learning outcomes, and strengthening graduate competencies to meet global standards. Achieving ASIIN accreditation for the doctoral program is expected to enhance the quality of education and research at the Faculty of Biology, preparing graduates with the skills and knowledge to address global challenges in biology, and reinforce the Faculty of Biology’s international reputation.

Wildan Fadhilah Kurnia Embarks on a Transformative Semester at James Cook University, Australia

News Release Student Activities Wednesday, 2 October 2024

Wildan Fadhilah Kurnia, a 2021 cohort student in the International Undergraduate Program (IUP) of the Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), has been participating in a prestigious six-month student mobility program at James Cook University (JCU), Australia. This program is designed to offer students invaluable international experience and the opportunity to study at one of the world’s leading universities in Marine Biology.

Wildan has found his experience at JCU to be exceptional. “The research conducted here is renowned globally in various fields, particularly marine biology, aquaculture, and paleontology,” he remarked. Enrolled in courses from the faculties of Marine Biology, Aquaculture, and Earth and Environmental Sciences, he is impressed by JCU’s state-of-the-art research facilities and highly interactive classes that foster critical thinking.

Wildan’s curriculum has provided him with direct fieldwork opportunities, allowing him to engage closely with the subject matter. He spent time at the Flinders River, searching for fossils and studying the stratigraphy of geological formations. Additionally, he visited several aquaculture facilities, gaining firsthand insights into the diverse species cultivated within the industry.

A highlight of his program was a visit to JCU’s Orpheus Island Research Station, where he participated in hands-on analysis of coral reefs surrounding the island. “Each course presents its own challenges, but I have thoroughly enjoyed my studies here and have learned so much,” Wildan said.

In addition to his coursework, Wildan is collaborating with Dr. Espen Knutsen, Senior Scientist and Curator of Paleontology at the Queensland Museum in Townsville, to further his ongoing research on fossils found in underwater caves. Wildan hopes to apply the knowledge and insights he has gained in his future endeavors. [Aulia]

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