On Saturday, August 24, 2024, the Entomology Study Group (Kelompok Studi Entomologi, KSE) from the Faculty of Biology at UGM held Exploration (Eksber) and Entotalk. These activities aimed to enhance KSE members’ knowledge of insects, both theoretically and practically.
Exploration is an insect sampling activity carried out by active KSE members. This year, the event occurred at Mina Sejati Fish Pond in Sleman, Yogyakarta. The participants were enthusiastic, working across three sampling areas: the citrus orchard, the cornfield, and the fish pond. The collected insects were then preserved through a mounting process by each group. The event concluded with presentations of the sampling and mounting results by the groups.

In the afternoon, the event continued with Entotalk, led by Rahma Amalia and Inaya Dwiandra from KSE’s 25th batch. Themed “Dragonfly Diversity: Exploring the Structure and Function of Dragonflies in Ecosystems,” the session featured speaker Puji Lestari, S.Pd. She presented material on dragonflies, one of the Odonata Order widely found in Indonesia, highlighting their vital role in ecosystems, followed by an interactive Q&A session. The event concluded with a certificate awarded to the speaker and a group photo, marking the end of the Joint Exploration and Entotalk activities.

On Saturday, August 24, 2024, the Graduate Student Association (KMP) of the Faculty of Biology UGM held a Graduate Student Gathering (TAKSA) at the Tropical Biology Auditorium, Faculty of Biology UGM with the theme “Break Your Limit, Make Your Own Way” aimed to foster relationship among graduate students. The event commenced at 7:45 AM WIB with opening remarks from the MCs, Aryan Mustamin, S.Si., and Umu Intan Kinasih, S.Si., followed by the singing of the Indonesian National Anthem, the Gadjah Mada Hymn, and the Faculty of Biology March. Subsequently, opening speeches were delivered by Wahyul Fatwatulumam, S.Si., Chair of the KMP Faculty of Biology UGM; Dr. rer. Nat. Andhika Puspito Nugroho, S.Si., M.Si., Advisor of the KMP Faculty of Biology UGM; and Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM.

The TAKSA event was preceded with a talk show led by Dini Iman Sari, S.Si., featuring Aryo Seto Pandu Wiranto, S.Si., M.Sc. as the speaker. He highlighted the importance of stepping outside one’s comfort zone to create new opportunities. He also stressed the value of recognizing one’s strengths, staying connected with close ones, and avoiding overthinking and unnecessary fear. Additionally, he urged the audience to embrace new experiences and take courageous actions, reminding them that achieving dreams requires hard work. The talk show concluded with a Q&A session.

The event then moved on to a sharing session and the presentation of the work programs and activities of each KMP division. Afterward, participants engaged in a game using the Quizziz app to determine the top three winners. That continued with a National Insight Test (TWK) game that involved three teams. The winner of the entire game round ends with the awarding of prizes. The closing of TAKSA ended with a prayer by Emi Suhaemi, S.Si., and photo documentation.[Author: KMP]

On Saturday, August 24, 2024, the Graduate Student Association (KMP) of the Faculty of Biology UGM held a Graduate Student Gathering (TAKSA) at the Tropical Biology Auditorium, Faculty of Biology UGM with the theme “Break Your Limit, Make Your Own Way” aimed to foster relationship among graduate students. The event commenced at 7:45 AM WIB with opening remarks from the MCs, Aryan Mustamin, S.Si., and Umu Intan Kinasih, S.Si., followed by the singing of the Indonesian National Anthem, the Gadjah Mada Hymn, and the Faculty of Biology March. Subsequently, opening speeches were delivered by Wahyul Fatwatulumam, S.Si., Chair of the KMP Faculty of Biology UGM; Dr. rer. Nat. Andhika Puspito Nugroho, S.Si., M.Si., Advisor of the KMP Faculty of Biology UGM; and Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM.

The TAKSA event was preceded with a talk show led by Dini Iman Sari, S.Si., featuring Aryo Seto Pandu Wiranto, S.Si., M.Sc. as the speaker. He highlighted the importance of stepping outside one’s comfort zone to create new opportunities. He also stressed the value of recognizing one’s strengths, staying connected with close ones, and avoiding overthinking and unnecessary fear. Additionally, he urged the audience to embrace new experiences and take courageous actions, reminding them that achieving dreams requires hard work. The talk show concluded with a Q&A session.

The event then moved on to a sharing session and the presentation of the work programs and activities of each KMP division. Afterward, participants engaged in a game using the Quizziz app to determine the top three winners. That continued with a National Insight Test (TWK) game that involved three teams. The winner of the entire game round ends with the awarding of prizes. The closing of TAKSA ended with a prayer by Emi Suhaemi, S.Si., and photo documentation.[Author: KMP]

On Sunday, 18 August 2024, the Entomology Study Group (KSE) and Biology Orchid Study Club (BiOSC) successfully conducted a collaboration event with the theme “Entomology and Orchid Collaborative Harmony”. This event is part of the KSE activity to explore each study group subject of interest.

The event was opened by Regina Nilamsari (KSE) dan Zahra Afriani (BiOSC) as MC, followed by a presentation delivered by Fadhilla Eka (KSE) on Insect and their role in Orchid. The event then continued with a sharing session and a game session. The event also included a workshop on insect preservation and orchid propagation through the Keiki method. The activity concluded with a tour to the Taman Kupu-Kupu Wisdom Park UGM and documentation.

Thursday, August 8, 2024 – The Faculty of Biology Universitas Gadjah Mada held a workshop on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the implementation of outcome-based education for Doctor in Biology Study Program. This event held in hybrid manner, at the Cakra Kusuma Hotel and via zoom meeting. Attended by all lecturers for the doctoral program, the workshop aimed to enhance the quality of education within the Faculty of Biology UGM.

In his opening remarks, the Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM, Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., emphasized the importance of understanding Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support the teaching and learning process. The event continued with a presentation delivered by Prof. Luke Daniels, Ph.D., from The College of Idaho, on Development of Doctoral Program to Address Global Challenges. Prof. Daniels highlighted the need for doctoral graduates to be innovative in their fields. Therefore, curriculum development must consider the strengths that already possessed by the university while also keeping pace with developments such as the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance the quality of learning and research.

The 2nd session was delivered by the Director of Directorate of Academic Studies and Innovation (DKIA) UGM, Dr.Agr.Sc. Ir. Hatma Suryatmojo, S.Hut., M.Si., IPU. ASEAN Eng. The presented topic was “Utilizing Artificial Intelligence in Learning and Research”. Dr. Hatma commended the quick response of the Faculty of Biology to the advancements of the AI era in supporting educational and research, as well as community services.

In his presentation, Dr. Hatma highlighted the increasingly indispensable role of AI in teaching and learning activities. He explained AI can be effectively integrated to enhance efficiency and effectiveness. A point he emphasized was the role of lecturers in overseeing the use of AI to ensure its relevance. Lecturers obliged to stimulate and encourage students to understand and deepen their knowledge through further discussion. The Vice Dean, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., added that the Faculty of Biology UGM has already implemented the latest technology in drafting the Strategic Plan (Renstra) 2023.

The next session was conducted by the Head of the Sub-Directorate of Academic Studies DKIA UGM, Dr. Irwan Endrayanto, S.Si., M.Sc., on Simaster for Course Plan (RPKPS) and Portfolios. As an introduction, Dr. Irwan explained the standards of the learning process at Universitas Gadjah Mada, emphasizing the importance of assessment in the learning process.
Effective and efficient assessment requires well-structured RPKPS. Technology, such as the Simaster plays a role in facilitating the creation and management of the document. During this session, Dr. Irwan was assisted by Andri Andreas Priyanto and Muhammad Lathif Febriyanto, S.Pd., who guided lecturers through the practical process of filling out and preparing RPKPS and portfolios using the Simaster.
This workshop demonstrates the Faculty of Biology UGM’s commitment to enhancing the quality of education and the competence of lecturers in implementing the Tri Dharma of higher education particularly in the Doctoral Program, align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on providing quality and inclusive education (SDGs No. 4).

The second day of the PIONIR Metamorphoself 2024 took place on Thursday, August 1, 2024, featuring a variety of engaging activities and performances. Under the theme Bioadaptability: Realizing a Generation of Pioneer Innovators for the Nation, the activities were designed to shape the character of young biologists as agents of change through inspiration, innovation, and collaboration. The activity opened by Angga Firza and Birrul Qisty as Masters of Ceremony began with the Celebration Jingle Dance at 7:30 AM WIB.

The activity began with grouping the young biologists into four Action of Biologist groups: Functional Biology, Environmental Biology and Biodiversity, Medical Biology, and Molecular Biology and Biotechnology. Following this grouping, the Tour de Faculty began at 7:50 AM WIB. During this tour, students received presentations from various laboratories they visited. The Tour de Faculty intended to introduce them to the facilities of the Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada. After the tour, the young biologists continued their activities in the auditorium, where they received clues for the Actions of Biologists activities according to their previously assigned groups. Each group would solve the clues and discuss them among themselves. The young biologists representative then presented their creativity through posters.

The next session started at 12:30 PM with talks from the Health Promoting University (HPU) Campaign and the Sharia Bank, moderated by Mrs. Titin Fauziah, S.E., M.B.A. The HPU presentation was delivered by Dwi Umi Siswanti, S.Si., M.Sc., and Yudhistira Adi Perdana, M.Psi., Psychologist of the Faculty of Biology at UGM. This presentation aimed to provide knowledge and information about the roles and facilities offered by HPU. The Sharia Bank presentation was delivered by Ana Murtiati, S.TP., discussing the facilities provided by BSI to avoid online loans. The session concluded with a discussion session.

After the talk, the young biologists participated in a KRS (Course Registration System) simulation guided by Angga Firza and Birrul Qisty, assisted by Mrs. Emi Dwi Suryanti, S.Si., M.Sc., the Coordinator of Academics and Student Affairs. Next was an introduction to all Study Groups/Organizations within the Faculty of Biology at UGM. This introduction featured profile videos and a fashion show by each Study Group/Organization, showcasing their respective symbols, including the Student Executive Board (BEM), Student Senate (SEMA), Congregation of Muslim Biology Student (JMMB), Christian Student Fellowship (PMK), Catholic Student Association (KMK), Biology Orchid Study Club (BiOSC), Marine Study Group (KSK), Entomology Study Group (KSE), Landscape Architecture Study Group (KSAT), Herpetology Study Group (KSH), Formasigen, and the Nature Enthusiastic Group (MATALABIOGAMA).

At 2:30 PM, the winners of the Action of Biologist presentations were announced, with the Environmental Biology and Biodiversity group as winners. Awards were also given for the most interactive, innovative, and expressive students: Muhammad Haikal from the Rhinoceros group was the most interactive, Salsabila Dwira Syaikhah from the Elephas group was the most innovative, and Anasya Prapti Citra from the Aquilaria group was the most expressive.
The closing session featured remarks from the Dean of the Faculty of Biology, concluding with the striking of a gong to mark the end of the event—the closing ceremony enlivened by Mefi, the PIONIR Metamorphoself 2024 mascot. The event officially ended at 2:55 PM, and the young biologists directed to the volleyball court for a celebratory formation, involving creating a symbol representing Metamorphoself using three colors. After the formation, Angga Firza and Birrul Qisty bid farewell, followed by a performance from Syrinx, signaling the end of the second day of PIONIR Metamorphoself 2024. [Public Relations Division of PIONIR Metamorphoself 2024]

Plant embryology is a crucial parameter in botanical studies, including systematics, evolution, and biotechnology related to plant somatic embryogenesis. The natural or in vitro formation and development of embryos can analyzed through anatomical approaches. Analyzing plant anatomy requires special treatment and preparation of samples, necessitating a platform for discussion and training to update methods and share information.

The Plant Structure and Development Laboratory (SPT) at the Faculty of Biology, UGM, as part of its community service and to open collaborative opportunities, welcomed four researchers from PT. BISI International, Kediri, for a training and networking visit. These researchers, Esti Sri Lestari, S.Si., M.Sc., Ida Wilujeng Abidah Ubudiyah, S.Si., Lina Wahyu Hapsari, S.P., and Rahmawati Amaliah, S.Si., come from the Department of Biotechnology. The training took place over eight days, from August 22 to 31, 2024.

Dr. Maryani, M.Sc., head of the SPT Laboratory, welcomed the participants, and Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration, and Alumni Affairs, officially opened the event on Monday, August 22, 2024, at the SPT Laboratory, Building B. In his opening remarks, the vice dean emphasized the importance of research collaboration in the current era. The training included lectures/discussions on plant microtechnique and embryology, hands-on practice preparing embryology slides, analysis, and independent lab work. Lectures were given by Utaminingsih, S.Si., M.Sc., from the Plant Structure and Development Laboratory, with independent work supported for three days by lab assistant Ms. Prapti.

Dr. Slamet Widiyanto, M.Sc., officially closed the event on Wednesday, August 31, 2024. In his closing remarks, he reiterated that the goal of this training extends beyond the eight days and should serve as the beginning of future research collaborations. He encouraged participants to share the benefits of the training widely and provide feedback to the Faculty of Biology, especially the SPT Laboratory, for any improvements.

This training supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in fostering partnerships and cooperation (SDG 17), and aims to benefit the general welfare of Indonesian society (SDG 3). Additionally, it aligns with the government’s program to enhance the quality of education (SDG 4).

Hopefully, this training became a kickstart of collaboration and research partnership between the Faculty of Biology UGM and PT BISI International. The knowledge and technical skills gained during the training would be valuable for participants and related institutions.

On Wednesday, July 31, 2024, the Faculty of Biology UGM opened the series of the PIONIR Metamorphoself 2024, an annual event organized by the Faculty of Biology to welcome young biologists, as an introduction to the faculty and prepare them for their academic journey at UGM. The PIONIR Metamorphoself 2024 carried the theme ‘’Bioadaptability: Realizing a Generation of Pioneer Innovators for the Nation’’. Through this theme, it hoped that young biologists can excel and create in various fields of study, adapting to the transition from school to university.

The first day of PIONIR Metamorphoself began with the opening ceremony at 7:30 AM. The ceremony was opened with a welcome speech from the General Coordinator of PIONIR Metamorphoself 2024, Muhammad Syahrul Firdaus, followed by a speech from the Cluster Coordinator, Tyas Ikhsan Hikmawan, S.Si, M.Si, Ph.D.. Next, there was a speech from the Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM, Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc and officially opening the PIONIR Metamorphoself 2024, symbolized by the installation of a deer replica at Terra Nova. After the opening ceremony, young biologists attended several sessions.

The first session was a talk with the faculty leadership, Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., the Dean of the Faculty of Biology, Dr. Bambang Retnoaji, M.Sc, Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs, Dr. Slamet Widiyanto, M.Sc., Vice Dean for Finance, Assets, and Human Resources, and Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Cooperation, and Alumni Affairs. This session was moderated by Dr.rer.nat. Abdul Rahman Siregar, S.Si., M.Biotech, aimed to introduce young biologists to the organizational structure, facilities, and assets of the Faculty of Biology. The Vice Deans also explained academic and non-academic activities at the Faculty of Biology, collaborations with national and international institutions, and highlighted successful graduates in various fields.

Next was a session featuring Emi Dwi Suryanti, S.Si, M.Sc, Coordinator for Academic and Student Affairs, and Sukirno, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., Head of the Bachelor in Biology Study Program, provided an overview of administrative systems, lectures, permissions, length of study, and exam requirements. Tips for young biologists to adapt to the Faculty of Biology at UGM were also shared, followed by a Q&A session.

After these sessions, young biologists participated in a quiz based on the materials presented during the leadership and academic coordinator talks. The next session was an introduction to the faculty lecturers, guided by MCs Angga Firza Pratama and Birrul Qisty Mutmainnah Nazara. The faculty lecturers were introduced in sequence according to their laboratories. Following the faculty lecturers introductions, young biologists participated in a bonding session with their Academic Supervisors (DPA). They directed to their DPA’s location based on a faculty map, guided by instructors. During this session, they received information about plagiarism and shared experiences about university life with their DPAs.

Yogyakarta, 29 July 2024 – The 7th International Summer Course in Sustainable Development: Sustainable Bioprospecting of Tropical Biodiversity is officially opened. This annual event organized by the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, started its offline agenda after opening its online session Monday (15/7) which was followed by a series of guest lectures from various experts from around the world.

At least 33 offline participants took part in the opening of the International Summer Course (ISC), located in the Seminar Room, Library and Archives Building, Universitas Gadjah Mada. The participants consisted of 27 international students and 6 local students. Coupled with online participants, this year ISC succeeded in attracting 58 participants from 14 countries including Indonesia, Malaysia, Japan, the Philippines, Thailand, Pakistan, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, India and Egypt.

“Let’s leverage our collective wisdom to foster biodiversity for a greener, more resilient world,” said Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration and Alumni Affairs, Faculty of Biology UGM in his speech, Monday (29/7).

Ir. Wiratni, S.T., M.T., Ph.D. as Secretary of the Directorate of Global Partnerships and Relations at UGM then delivered her remarks. She expressed her welcome and appreciation for the arrival of participants from various countries to take part in the summer course this time. ISC was officially opened by awarding pins and hats to two participant representatives by Dr. Eko and Dr. Wiratni, followed by a Kalimantan traditional dance performance by postgraduate students from the Faculty of Biology UGM.

The next series of offline lectures was held after the opening of ISC on Monday morning, presenting speakers from various countries. The lecture series began with the first panel presentation by Dr. Siti Fatimah from Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia, and Dr. Alona Linatoc from the University of the Philippines Los Banos, moderated by Ludmilla Fitri Utari M.Si.. The two panelists delivered material on the topic of ethnobotany, highlighting the interaction and role of the ecosystem environment and humans in it. Ethnobotany emphasizes the various cultures of various regions and how the people in them use local plants and their ecosystems (SDG 15).

The second panel presented two panelists from the Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health, University of Leipzig, Germany, Dr. Ahmed El Wahed and Prof. Uwe Truyen with moderator Dr. Abdul Rahman Siregar. Both delivered material related to maintaining biodiversity for sustainable health “One Health”. Both touched on The One Health Joint Plan of Action through collaboration involving various parties, researchers from various parts of the world to alleviate world health problems (SDG 3).

The next panel related to natural products and bioprospecting was presented by Dr. Tri Rini Nuringtyas from the Faculty of Biology UGM, and Dr. Nor Ismaliza from Tunku Abdul Rahman University, Malaysia, moderated by Woro Anindito Sri Tunjung, Ph.D. Dr. Nuning and Dr. Nor delivered an interactive presentation regarding the use of various natural materials into products with potential economic value (SDG 15 and 8).

The final panel, entitled Genetic Bioresource, was delivered by Konsorn Srikulnath, Ph.D. from Kasetsart University, Thailand, moderated by Dr. Aprilia Sufi Subiastuti. He explained about the research unit at his institution “Animal Genomic and Bioresource Research Unit” (AGB Research Unit) which focuses on studying animal genomics including bulls (genetic monitoring), chickens (increasing gene varieties), fish and crocodiles (SDG 14 and 15).

All participants were enthusiastic in attending the series of openings and lectures. The activities will be continued with cultural trips and field lectures with various interesting destinations related to the big theme of this year’s summer course, bioprospection. The 7th International Summer Course in Sustainable Development is expected to become a forum for collaboration between students, lecturers and researchers, and become a discussion forum for increasing the potential for sustainable education and research (SDG 4 and 17).

The Averin team (Antivenom use Tamarind) from UGM discovered the potential of tamarind seeds (Tamarindus indica) as an alternative treatment for ground snake (Calloselasma rhodostoma) bites. This research was conducted by Oktaviani Nisa Hanafiah (Veterinary Medicine), Fauzela Azira Ainaya (Biology), Fani Nur Maftukhah (Pharmacy), Rahmadina Nur Azizah (Pharmacy), and Khansa Fortuna Putri (Veterinary Medicine). The research was funded by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology (Kemendikbudristek) and Universitas Gadjah Mada. It hoped that this support will help address the issues of access and cost of snake bite treatment.

“This research aims to provide a theoretical foundation and preclinical data on the effectiveness of T. indica seed extract against C. rhodostoma snake bites. The results of this study could contribute to alternative treatments, reducing mortality rates from C. rhodostoma bites in Indonesia,” said Oktaviani.

Oktaviani emphasized the importance and urgency of this research. “According to WHO data, Indonesia experiences around 135,000 snake bite cases annually, with a mortality rate of 5-10%. The C. rhodostoma snake is a significant cause of death in Java. However, the Antivenom Serum (SABU) for these snake bites is not widely available and remains expensive,” Oktaviani added.

The tamarind seed extract was tested in vivo against C. rhodostoma venom, showing that in the group treated with tamarind seed extract, the hemorrhagic area was significantly smaller compared to the group treated with snake venom alone. Therefore, T. indica shows promise as a new treatment for snake bites, especially for C. rhodostoma. Our dedication to this research drives us to continue exploring nature’s potential to enhance human life, Oktaviani stated. These findings were presented at the National Seminar on Tropical Biology (SNBT) on July 20, 2024. [Author: Fauzela Azira Ainaya]