To explore opportunities for collaboration and strengthen research networks in the field of sugarcane, the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) visited the Indonesian Sugar Research Institute (Pusat Penelitian Perkebunan Gula Indonesia/P3GI) in Pasuruan, East Java, on 1 October 2026. The visit was attended by two lecturers from the Faculty of Biology UGM, Ganies Riza Aristya, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D. and Prof. Dr. Yekti Asih Purwestri, S.Si., M.Si., along with two master’s students, Tiara Putria Judith, S.Si., M.Sc., and Denianto Agung Wicaksono, S.Si.

The Faculty of Biology UGM delegation was welcomed by Dr. M. Akmal Agustira, Head of P3GI, together with Aris Lukito, S.P., M.Si., Ari Kristini, M.Plant.Prot., S.P., Head of the Research Division, and members of the P3GI research team. The meeting served as an initial opportunity for both institutions to introduce their respective areas of expertise and research activities, while also discussing potential synergies for advancing sugarcane research in Indonesia.

P3GI is one of Indonesia’s long-established research institutions in the sugar industry, with a long history of research on sugarcane and sugar. Based in Pasuruan, East Java, P3GI conducts research and development related to sugarcane, sugar, and sweetener technologies and products, while also providing technical support to stakeholders in the sugar sector, including sugarcane farmers and sugar mills. The institute traces its history to 9 July 1887, when it was first established as Proefstation Oost Java (POJ).

Through this visit, the Faculty of Biology UGM and P3GI explored opportunities for collaboration to strengthen research, promote the utilization of sugarcane genetic resources, and advance science and technology in the field of sugarcane. The meeting is expected to serve as a starting point for broader collaboration between the two institutions in the future.

The Indonesia Research and Innovation Fair (IRIFair) was held this year from 21–24 September 2026 by the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) in collaboration with the Indonesia Endowment Fund for Education (LPDP) as a platform for identifying and developing Indonesia’s research and innovation talents. IRIFair serves as a platform for the exploration, exhibition, and competition of talents in research and innovation through a series of activities encompassing competitions, talent development, and recognition of promising research works.

In 2026, IRIFair was part of the BRIN Goes to School and BRIN Goes to Campus programs, featuring several main activities, including B-CREATIVE (BRIN Competition for Advanced Research and Innovation). B-CREATIVE is a research competition for final-year projects conducted by master’s degree students, designed to showcase, explore, and develop their creativity and potential as research and innovation talents.

In the competition, Tiara Putria Judith, a Fast-Track Master’s student in Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), under the supervision of Ganies Riza Aristya, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., was selected as a finalist in the Life and Natural Sciences cluster with her research entitled “Characterization of Composition and Genomic Variation of Sugarcane (Saccharum hybrid) ‘Kidang Kencana’.” The B-CREATIVE assessment consisted of a Final Research Project Presentation, 3-Minute Research Pitch, and Research Poster Exhibition. Through these stages, Tiara won Third Place in B-CREATIVE at IRIFair 2026 with her research focusing on the genomic characterization of Indonesian hybrid sugarcane, particularly the commercial cultivar ‘Kidang Kencana’.

The research was motivated by the complexity of sugarcane genetic information resulting from a long history of breeding and genetic improvement. Meanwhile, molecular-level studies of sugarcane in Indonesia remain relatively limited, highlighting the need to further develop genomic resources for sugarcane cultivars adapted to Indonesian agroecosystems. In her research, Tiara utilized advances in sequencing technologies using both long-read and short-read approaches to obtain a more comprehensive understanding of the genetic information. The chloroplast genome was used as an initial step to characterize the genomic information of the ‘Kidang Kencana’ cultivar.

The findings are expected to contribute to the enrichment of genomic resources for Indonesian hybrid sugarcane. This information provides a foundation for supporting the development of more precise, genome-based sugarcane breeding toward Smart Targeted Breeding, while strengthening the utilization of Indonesia’s sugarcane genetic resources for future research and breeding efforts.

The Program Hibah Desa Mitra Wedomartani 2025, conducted by the Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) through the cultivation of Balitbangtan Superior Native Chickens (Ayam KUB), has demonstrated tangible results in Wedomartani Village, Ngemplak District, Sleman Regency. Implemented during the 2025 fiscal year, the program has evolved from an initial assistance initiative into an independently managed poultry farming activity that supports household food security.

One such success story was shared by Mrs. Sunarti, a beneficiary of this program. In an interview on Sunday, September 20, 2026, Mrs. Sunarti recounted the growth of her poultry flock from the program’s inception to the present day. Starting with just three KUB chickens—two hens and one rooster—the flock under her care has expanded to approximately 40 chickens. This progress demonstrates that the assistance extended beyond the initial distribution of livestock. The chickens provided were raised and bred effectively, transforming them into a productive household asset. Approximately three months after initial care, the hens began producing eggs, taking turns laying during the early production phase.

“Initially, I received three chickens—two hens and one rooster. Now, the flock has grown to around 40,” shared Mrs. Sunarti as she described the progress of her poultry management.

The success of the farming effort relies heavily on routine care. Mrs. Sunarti and her family constructed a dedicated coop, provided clean drinking water, supplied feed, and maintained proper hygiene within the enclosure. The active support of her husband also played a vital role in daily operations and flock management.

“My husband helped me build the coop ourselves. The drinking water must always be clean, feed is provided regularly, and the coop is kept clean,” Mrs. Sunarti explained.

The expansion of the flock has also generated financial benefits for the family. More than 10 chickens have been sold at a price of Rp 50,000 or more per bird. This outcome indicates that KUB chicken farming not only enhances household food security—supporting SDG 2 (Zero Hunger)—but also provides a supplementary income source that advances SDG 1 (No Poverty) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth). According to Mrs. Sunarti, the sustainability of livestock farming is closely tied to a sense of ownership over the assistance received. When beneficiaries feel true ownership, they are motivated to care for and expand their livestock. The current population of approximately 40 chickens has even created a need for expanded coop capacity.

“Once you feel a sense of ownership, you naturally become more attentive to caring for and developing them. Now that the flock has grown, we need to expand the facility,” she remarked.

To meet feeding requirements, Mrs. Sunarti utilizes locally available household resources. Leftover rice and other domestic food scraps are repurposed as poultry feed. This practice represents a sustainable resource utilization strategy at the household level, directly supporting SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). Looking ahead, Mrs. Sunarti hopes to gain further technical knowledge regarding feed processing, particularly fermentation techniques, noting that additional training is required to properly implement these methods in her daily routines.

“As for fermentation, we do not fully understand the technical aspects yet. We hope there will be future workshops or training sessions so we can learn and apply the technique correctly,” said Mrs. Sunarti.

The expansion from three to approximately 40 chickens exemplifies the tangible impact of the Partner Village Grant Program at the household level. Population growth, egg production, livestock sales, and the efficient use of household resources reflect the community’s capacity to maximize the assistance received. For the Faculty of Biology, UGM, program success is measured not merely by the number of livestock distributed, but by the community’s capability to raise, expand, and utilize them sustainably. Mrs. Sunarti’s experience highlights that persistent mentorship and a strong sense of ownership are pivotal in transforming initial aid into sustainable family assets.

Further developments remain necessary, particularly concerning population management, coop expansion, productivity enhancement, and alternative feed formulation. These ongoing needs provide opportunities for continuous, science-based mentorship to ensure that KUB chicken farming continues to flourish and benefit households in Wedomartani Village, reinforcing SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

Contributor: Hibah Desa Mitra Wedomartani 2025 Team supervised by Prof. Dr. Dra. Rarastoeti Pratiwi, M.Sc.

Interviewer: Sukarman Hadi Jaya Putra

Tags: SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

Yogyakarta, September 21, 2026 — The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) held a Thanksgiving Ceremony for its 71st Anniversary on Monday, September 21, 2026. Carrying the theme “Sustainable Biosynergy, Going Global in Excellence,” this event served as a momentum to express gratitude for the journey of the Faculty of Biology UGM, while strengthening togetherness, honoring service, and awarding appreciation for various achievements and contributions to the advancement of the faculty.

The series of events began with opening remarks by the Dean of the Faculty of Biology at UGM. The program continued with a tumpeng (traditional ceremonial rice cone) cutting ceremony led by the Dean, accompanied by the Chair of the Faculty Senate. Pieces of the tumpeng were presented to Prof. Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, S.Si., M.App.Sc. This ceremony symbolized gratitude and unity in commemorating the 71st Anniversary of the Faculty of Biology UGM.

One of the important agenda items of the event was the presentation of mementos to retirees (purnakarya) as a token of appreciation for their dedication and contributions to the Faculty of Biology UGM. Mementos were presented to Mr. Jumadi, Mr. Ngadi, the family of the late Mrs. Ani Sri Rahayoe, and Mr. Suharsono.

These honors were conferred through various units within the extended family of the Faculty of Biology UGM. KORPAGAMA, IKPB, and Dharma Wanita also presented mementos and handed over items from their respective work units. Jumadi and Ngadi received mementos from their respective units; the family of the late Ani Sri Rahayoe received theirs from the Head of the Animal Systematics Laboratory, while Suharsono received his from the Person-in-Charge of the Faculty of Biology Library, UGM.

The spirit of care and sustainability was also demonstrated through the distribution of educational financial assistance from the Dharma Wanita of the Faculty of Biology UGM to 10 students. The aid was presented by the Chair of Dharma Wanita of the Faculty of Biology UGM, Mrs. Nurpuji Mumpuni, S.Si., M.Kes. Additionally, welfare support was awarded to eight members of the Waste Management Task Force (Tim Satgas Sampah) of the Faculty of Biology UGM in appreciation of their contributions to maintaining cleanliness and environmental management within the faculty.

The event continued with the presentation of awards to academic community members and network partners of the Faculty of Biology UGM who demonstrated outstanding achievements and positive contributions. Four high-achieving students received awards handed over by the relevant Vice Dean. Awards were also presented to four outstanding administrative and educational staff (tenaga kependidikan) to recognize their dedication and performance in supporting higher education operations at the Faculty of Biology UGM.

Recognition was further extended to three inspiring alumni: Dra. Agnes Heratri, M.P.; Senior Commissioner of Police (Ret.) Drs. Putut Tjahjo Widodo, DFM, M.Si.; and Dini Astika Sari, S.Si., M.Biotech. This award served as an acknowledgment of alumni contributions while strengthening ties between the Faculty of Biology UGM and its alum network. The presence of alumni within the Faculty of Biology ecosystem remains essential to building sustainable synergy and broadening the faculty’s positive impact on society.

This event supports the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through three main pillars. First, SDG 4 (Quality Education) is realized through strengthening the academic environment and empowering students. Second, SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) is reflected in the provision of inclusive access and social support. Lastly, SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) is achieved through close collaboration among the academic community, Dharma Wanita, alumni, retirees, and administrative staff.

Yogyakarta – The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), continues to strengthen the role of biological sciences in addressing the challenges of sustainable development. This commitment was highlighted during the 71st Anniversary (Dies Natalis) celebration of the Faculty of Biology UGM, held at the Biologi Tropika Auditorium on Monday, September 21, under the theme “Sustainable Bioenergy, Going Global through Excellence.”

The event was opened by the Chair of the Faculty of Biology UGM Senate, Prof. Endang Semiarti, M.S., M.Sc., followed by an address from the Rector of UGM. The Rector expressed appreciation for the Faculty of Biology’s achievements, including the improvement of the Biology Study Program’s position in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026, from the 550–600 range to 501–550 worldwide.

In addition, the Faculty of Biology continues to develop education and professional competencies through the establishment of the Professional Study Program in Biodiversity Curation in 2024, the development of the Integrated Genome Factory (IGF), and the establishment of a Competency Testing Center (TUK) in 2022, which is currently the only Biotechnology TUK collaborating with the National Agricultural Professional Certification Agency (LSP Pertanian Nasional).

Following a prayer led by Dr. Arief Muammar, M.Sc., the event continued with a report by the Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM. Various achievements were presented, ranging from “Unggul” accreditation for the Undergraduate, Master’s, and Doctoral programs to the development of student mobility and double-degree programs with partner universities, including the University of Leeds, Leiden University, Australian National University, and Dai Yeh University.

The Faculty of Biology has also continued to strengthen its facilities and resources, including the construction of the KPTU Building corridor and the addition of laboratory equipment. The Faculty currently has 16 Professors. In research, the Journal of Tropical Biodiversity and Biotechnology (JTBB) is indexed in Scopus (Quartile 3), while the Journal Biologi Indonesia (BIB) is Sinta 4-accredited.

Activities such as Research Day, BIOENTRI, and community engagement programs, which have reached 10 regencies/cities across 9 provinces, have also helped strengthen the Faculty’s broader societal impact.

The Faculty of Biology’s international network now spans 18 countries and 49 institutions, including through 9 double-degree programs. The Faculty has also developed BIOCAPTURE (Biology Career Preparation for the Future) as part of its efforts to prepare students and alums for the professional world.

The series of events continued with a scientific lecture delivered by Dr. Abdul Hakam Naja, M.Si., Chair of the Supervisory Board of LAZISKU KBPII. Addressing the same overarching theme, he discussed the challenges posed by climate change, sustainable development, green jobs, and the bioeconomy, as well as the importance of biological research to industrial development. Collaboration among universities, research institutions, and industry was also highlighted as an important aspect of the lecture.

On the same occasion, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Faculty of Biology UGM and Institut Teknologi Del in the fields of education, research, and community engagement. The 71st Anniversary celebration was subsequently closed by the Chair of the Faculty of Biology UGM Senate, Prof. Endang Semiarti, M.S., M.Sc.

Through the theme “Sustainable Bioenergy, Going Global through Excellence,” the Faculty of Biology UGM continues to strengthen its contributions through education, research, community engagement, and collaboration in support of the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 15 (Life on Land), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), while promoting sustainable development at both national and global levels.

The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), conducted a socialization  program on the Prospects of Elba Native Chickens as Laying Hens on Sunday, September 20, 2026, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. Western Indonesian Time (WIB) at the Wedomartani Village Hall, Ngemplak District, Sleman Regency, Special Region of Yogyakarta. The activity was attended by 23 participants from three hamlets, namely Wonosari (Pajangan), Malangrejo, and Sempu. Most participants were women involved in livestock management at the household level. The activity was part of the Community Service Program (Pengabdian kepada Masyarakat/PKM) of the UGM Faculty of Biology.

The PKM team leader, Prof. Dr. med.vet. Hendry T.S.S.G. Saragih, M.P., served as the main speaker, accompanied by lecturers and students from the UGM Faculty of Biology at the undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral levels. The material was presented by connecting the biological principles of chickens with practical management practices applicable to household-scale farming. Elba native chickens have the potential to be developed as laying hens to support household protein availability while creating business opportunities through egg production. An understanding of chicken growth, reproduction, health, and nutritional requirements is expected to help communities produce livestock-derived food that contributes to SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being).

During the socialization, participants gained an understanding of chicken growth and reproductive stages, housing management, and nutritional requirements according to different life stages. Comfortable, dry, clean, and secure housing is an important factor in maintaining chicken health and productivity. Participants were also introduced to the potential use of certain food residues, such as fish parts, tofu, and tempeh, as additional nutritional sources after their suitability and safety for chickens have been ensured. The utilization of materials available within household environments is expected to reduce potential waste while promoting more effective and sustainable resource management in accordance with SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).

The discussion was highly interactive, with participants raising questions based on their experiences in raising chickens. Mrs. Sunarti asked about the management of sick chickens, while another participant raised concerns about chickens that had not started laying eggs despite reaching the productive age. The speaker explained the importance of proper husbandry and adequate nutrition and noted that herbal materials from the ginger family may be considered in traditional management practices, while still taking into account the condition of the chickens and appropriate health management. Participants also discussed the use of food residues as alternative feed ingredients. Food materials such as fish parts, leftover tofu, and tempeh may be considered after their suitability, safety, and nutritional requirements for chickens have been carefully assessed. Questions regarding unusually large eggs containing two yolks were also discussed as a phenomenon that may be associated with biological and genetic factors.

The participants’ enthusiasm was also reflected in their expectations for the program to continue through regular assistance and mentoring. Participants proposed that future assistance include male chickens so that the community could develop their poultry production activities through the breeding stage. These inputs will serve as important considerations for the UGM Faculty of Biology PKM Team in designing mentoring activities that are better aligned with community needs.

Through this activity, the UGM Faculty of Biology seeks to strengthen community capacity through science-based knowledge of chicken biology, housing management, nutrition, health, and egg production. This knowledge is expected to support the development of Elba native chickens as a sustainable source of household food and a potential livelihood opportunity. The activity also contributes to SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) by promoting eggs as a source of household protein. In addition, the utilization of suitable food residues as additional nutritional sources in chicken feed contributes to SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).

Contributors:

UGM Faculty of Biology Chicken Community Service (PKM) Team in collaboration with the Wedomartani Partner Village, 2026, led by Prof. Dr. med.vet. Hendry T.S.S.G. Saragih, M.P.

Tags:

SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production)

On Sunday, September 20, 2026, the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), conducted an educational socialization program on the utilization of fermented coconut dregs as an alternative chicken feed ingredient at the Wedomartani Village Hall, Ngemplak, Sleman, Special Region of Yogyakarta. The program, supervised by Dr. Ardaning Nuriliani, S.Si., M.Kes., was attended by community representatives from three hamlets: Sempu, Malangrejo, and Wonosari (Pajangan). This initiative is part of the ongoing implementation of the UGM Faculty of Biology’s Partner Village (Desa Mitra) program.

The activity aimed to introduce the application of coconut dregs as a feed ingredient through the fermentation process while simultaneously enhancing the community’s capacity to manage local resource potential effectively and sustainably, aligning with SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). The opening remark address by a representative of the Wedomartani Village Women Farmers Group, Mrs. Titik Puji Lestari, followed by welcoming remarks from Dr. Ardaning Nuriliani, S.Si., M.Kes., as the supervisor of the Program Desa Mitra

The session featured Dr. Miftahul Ilmi, S.Si., M.Si., as the primary speaker, who elucidated the potential of coconut dregs for poultry feed, emphasizing the importance of understanding their physical and nutritional characteristics prior to use. The community was introduced to the principles of processing coconut dregs through fermentation utilizing yeast or tempeh mold. Furthermore, the speaker detailed the fundamental stages of this fermentation process. The presentation also provided practical examples of small-scale processing and formulated feed mixtures that incorporate fermented coconut dregs as a key component. The independent production of chicken feed using such high-protein ingredients is expected to improve the quality of eggs produced by the residents’ poultry, thereby directly supporting SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being).

The session lasted for approximately one hour, from 1:00 to 2:00 PM Western Indonesia Time (WIB), and was followed by an interactive discussion and Q&A session. The participants’ enthusiasm was evident from the diverse questions raised, including inquiries regarding the shelf life and proper storage methods of the fermented feed. This discussion served as an excellent opportunity for attendees to obtain more specific, actionable insights regarding the utilization of fermented coconut dregs.

Participant feedback was formally evaluated through a questionnaire completed by 23 respondents. All respondents stated that they had gained a better understanding of how to utilize fermented coconut dregs as chicken feed following the session. They unanimously agreed that the delivered material was easy to comprehend and expressed a strong desire for further mentoring in the production of this fermented feed. Moreover, 95.7% of the respondents indicated an active interest in learning more or attempting to process coconut dregs as a feed ingredient independently.

Through this initiative, the community is expected to acquire practical knowledge regarding alternative feed ingredients and to explore opportunities for developing locally sourced poultry feed. This program actively supports the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), by repurposing agricultural byproducts into valuable feed components. Additionally, the activity aligns with SDG 4 (Quality Education) through the active transfer of knowledge and skills to the local community, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by fostering institutional and community collaboration.

Contributors: The 2026 UGM Faculty of Biology Partner Village Community Service (PkM) Team in collaboration with Wedomartani Partner Village, supervised by Dr. Ardaning Nuriliani, S.Si., M.Kes.

Tags: SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

Yogyakarta, September 16, 2026 – The Gama Ayam Development Team under the PRIMESTeP Innovation Development Grant of the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), continues to strengthen its partnership network for the development of MAHAR Chicken through a series of visits to development partners in Klaten and Sleman Regencies. The activities are part of ongoing efforts to expand the implementation of superior local poultry innovation while fostering sustainable collaboration between higher education institutions and local communities. One of the visits was conducted in Kenaiban Village, Juwiring District, Klaten Regency, involving Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., Dian Sartika, M.Sc., Yusuf Febrianta, Prananda Imammuddin Dzaki, and Ziyan Fareysa Abharani. The team observed the progress of activities at the site and held discussions with the local partners, Mr. Zul and Mr. Tri, regarding the development of MAHAR Chicken, future development opportunities, and various aspects that could be strengthened to maximize the program’s benefits for the community.

The day before, the team also visited Prof. drg. Suryono, S.H., M.M., Ph.D., Dean of the Faculty of Dentistry UGM and one of the partners in MAHAR Chicken development, at his residence in Klajuran, Sidokarto, Godean, Sleman. The visit was attended by Dian Sartika, M.Sc., Yusuf Febrianta, and Prananda Imammuddin Dzaki. The meeting provided an opportunity to strengthen the existing partnership while discussing the potential development of MAHAR Chicken and the broader benefits that the program could provide to the community in its subsequent stages. These visits demonstrate that the development of MAHAR Chicken involves not only strengthening genetic and production aspects but also expanding partnership networks and facilitating the application of innovation across different community settings. Direct interaction with partners is an important component for obtaining field-based input, identifying development needs, and ensuring that the resulting innovations can be implemented according to the characteristics and needs of each location.

Through these strengthened partnerships, the Faculty of Biology UGM Gama Ayam Team continues to promote MAHAR Chicken as a superior local poultry innovation with potential benefits for food security, economic development, and community empowerment. Collaboration with diverse partners is expected to create opportunities for population expansion, breeding, egg production, and replication of the MAHAR Chicken development model in other regions. This initiative aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) through the development of animal protein sources based on local poultry, SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) through the development of community economic opportunities, SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) through the downstreaming of research-based innovation, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through strengthened collaboration between higher education institutions and community partners in advancing local poultry innovation.

Proper inorganic waste management can be an effective strategy to reduce waste generation while repurposing materials that retain functional value. The Waste Management Community Service (PkM) Team in collaboration with the Wedomartani Partner Village, the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), provided education on inorganic waste management and introduced the waste bank system to the community. This initiative was realized through the “Extension and Training on Waste Bank Initiation, Institutional Structure, and Waste Bank Management Teams in Wedomartani Village,” held on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at the Wedomartani Village Hall, Ngemplak, Sleman, Special Region of Yogyakarta. The program, supervised by Dr. Ardaning Nuriliani, S.Si., M.Kes., was attended by community representatives from five hamlets: Pokoh, Wonosari, Saren, Pucanganom, and Tegalrejo.

The introduction of the waste bank serves as an effort to encourage the community to begin sorting waste at its source. During this socialisation, the community received an overview of the initial stages of establishing a waste bank, its institutional structure, and the division of roles within the management team. This understanding is expected to equip the community to prepare a waste management system tailored to the specific conditions and needs of Wedomartani Village. The educational materials provided also align with SDG 4 (Quality Education), particularly by imparting actionable knowledge for community-level waste management.

The event commenced with an opening and welcoming address by Dr. Ardaning Nuriliani, S.Si., M.Kes. Subsequently, participants attended a presentation delivered by Mr. Farid Fakhrudin, S.S., B.Sc. The presentation covered an introduction to waste banks, the initiation process, institutional structuring, task allocation for the management team, and inorganic waste management through material-specific sorting.

A key focal point of the presentation was the importance of sorting to enhance the value of inorganic waste. Mixed waste is significantly more difficult to process and generally commands a lower market value. Mr. Farid illustrated this with a straightforward example involving plastic bottles. Bottles that have been separated from their labels and caps and subsequently categorized by material type are easier to distribute and possess a higher market value compared to unsorted materials. This sorting process represents a simple yet vital step that the community can undertake before the waste is collected via the waste bank system. This method supports SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) by promoting the utilization of reusable materials, while simultaneously creating economic opportunities from waste, thereby contributing to SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth).

The discussion regarding the economic value of waste received a highly positive response from the participants. The community actively engaged in the presentation and participated in the discussion sessions, raising questions regarding the sorting and management of inorganic waste. The dialogue also expanded upon how waste, traditionally considered useless, can be better managed to provide environmental benefits while generating economic value.

In addition to delivering the presentation, the PkM Team distributed informative leaflets about waste banks to the participants. This information serves as reference material for the community to review the concepts, formation stages, and management protocols of a waste bank following the event. The provision of these leaflets is intended to assist the community in preparing for subsequent steps should they decide to implement a waste bank system in their respective neighborhoods.

This extension program represents an initial step by the UGM Faculty of Biology Waste Management PkM Team in supporting the Wedomartani community to establish a more structured inorganic waste management system. Through organized sorting and collection, waste that retains value can be repurposed rather than ending up directly as refuse. Ultimately, the implementation of a waste bank is expected to foster waste-sorting habits while unlocking the economic potential of community-managed waste. This direct community involvement in waste management actively supports SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities). Concurrently, the collaboration between the UGM Faculty of Biology PkM Team and the Wedomartani community exemplifies SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

Contributors: The 2026 Waste Management Community Service (PkM) Team in collaboration with the Wedomartani Partner Village, chaired by Dr. Ardaning Nuriliani, S.Si., M.Kes.

Household organic waste remains a significant challenge in community waste management. Through the Community Service (PkM) Waste Management Team in collaboration with the Wedomartani Partner Village in 2026, the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), encouraged the community to learn and practice an alternative method of organic waste utilization via eco-enzyme production. This initiative was realized through the “Extension and Training on Organic Waste Management using Eco-Enzymes in Wedomartani Village,” held on Sunday, September 13, 2026, at the Wedomartani Village Hall, Ngemplak, Sleman, Special Region of Yogyakarta. The program, supervised by Dr. Ardaning Nuriliani, S.Si., M.Kes., was attended by community representatives from three hamlets: Pokoh, Saren, and Wonosari.

This socialisation and training program was designed to provide the community with both theoretical understanding and practical experience in processing daily organic waste. Eco-enzymes were introduced as a viable method for organic waste utilization, utilizing materials readily available in household environments. Equipped with the acquired knowledge and experience, the community is expected to implement organic waste processing more independently within their respective neighborhoods. The recycling of these organic residues constitutes an application of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) in household-level waste management.

The event commenced with an opening ceremony and welcoming remarks from the UGM Faculty of Biology Waste Management PkM Team. The agenda proceeded with a presentation by PkM team members regarding organic waste management and its utilization through eco-enzyme production. During this session, Mr. Budhi Hendro Prijono, A.M.K., S.K.M., from the Nusantara Eco-Enzyme Community, contributed additional insights and explanations based on his practical experience in eco-enzyme management. Representatives from the Nusantara Eco-Enzyme Community were also present to support the program’s implementation. The active involvement of the PkM Team, the Nusantara Eco-Enzyme Community, and the local residents in this activity embodies SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through collaborative knowledge and experience sharing in organic waste management.

The educational materials covered the introduction to eco-enzymes, their history, benefits, suitable raw materials, and the step-by-step production process. Participants also received instructions on utilizing household organic waste as the primary substrate for eco-enzyme synthesis. The materials were delivered using relatable, everyday examples to help the community understand how typically discarded organic residues can be repurposed through specific processing methods. This capacity-building effort supports SDG 4 (Quality Education) by providing comprehensive education on organic waste processing and its subsequent utilization.

Following the theoretical exposition, participants were guided to engage in hands-on eco-enzyme production. During the practical session, Mr. Budhi Hendro Prijono and the PkM Team assisted the participants, providing supplementary guidance and explanations at each methodological step. High community enthusiasm was evident throughout the event, particularly during the interactive discussion and Q&A session. Participants actively inquired about acceptable raw materials, the fermentation process, and the practical applications of the final eco-enzyme product. To promote program sustainability, participants were provided with mature eco-enzyme samples and informational leaflets detailing eco-enzymes and their production protocols.

This initiative represents a concerted effort by the UGM Faculty of Biology Waste Management PkM Team to introduce waste management practices originating at the household level. By converting organic residues into eco-enzymes, the community is encouraged to better identify their generated waste types and process them prior to disposal. This approach aligns with SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) through community-driven environmental waste management. Furthermore, the application of eco-enzymes for specific environmental sanitation needs supports SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being). It is anticipated that the acquired knowledge and skills will be continuously applied and advanced by the residents of Wedomartani Village as a core component of sustainable waste management. The utilization of organic waste via eco-enzymes also adds functional value to materials previously deemed as refuse. If properly developed, this utilization could generate economic opportunities at the community level, thereby supporting SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth).

Contributors: The 2026 Waste Management Community Service (PkM) Team of the Faculty of Biology, UGM, in collaboration with the Wedomartani Partner Village, supervised by Dr. Ardaning Nuriliani, S.Si., M.Kes.