Yogyakarta, 27 August 2024 – The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada received a visit from a conservation ecologist from the School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Australia, namely Prof. Raylene Cooke, and Prof. John White. Also present were colleagues from the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Dr. Ristiyanto, Dr. Arlyna Budi Pustika, and Dr. Farida Handayani. The visit was warmly welcomed by the Faculty of Biology, attended by Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc. as Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration and Alumni Affairs, Dr. Bambang Retnoaji, M.Sc. as Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs, Dr. Slamet Widiyanto, M.Sc. as Vice Dean for Finance, Assets and Human Resources Affairs, Dr.rer.nat Andhika Puspito Nugroho as Head of the Masters Study Program, Rina Sri Kasiamdari, Ph.D. as Head of the Biodiversity Curator Professional Study Program, Nur Indah Sepriani, Ph.D., and Tyas Iksan Hikawan, Ph.D. as Chair and Secretary of the Office of International Affairs, Faculty of Biology, as well as several lecturers at the Faculty of Biology who have studied in Australia; Dr. Maryani, and Dra. Tuty Arisuryanti, M.Sc., Ph.D.

Dr. Eko warmly welcomed the meeting. He said that the visit could be a great moment to initiate academic and research collaboration between the two institutions. The Deputy Dean for Research, Community Service, Cooperation and Alumni then explained the profile of the Faculty of Biology UGM, introducing each study program and collaborations that could be initiated together.

Prof. Raylene and Prof. John appreciated the meeting agenda. The two ecologists from Deakin University are enthusiastic about the Biodiversity Curator Professional Program at the Faculty of Biology, as well as the initiation of double degrees at bachelor, master and doctoral levels which can be collaborated with the School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, especially as UGM itself has established memorandum of understanding with Deakin since 2020.

The discussion also discussed plans for research collaboration between Deakin University, Faculty of Biology, and the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) which focuses on mapping rodenticides in the Asia Pacific, one of which is Indonesia. This was also conveyed by Prof. John and Prof. Raylene gave a public lecture on Tuesday (27/8) afternoon which focused on ARMS or Anticoagulant Rodenticide Monitoring System research with researchers in the Asia Pacific region. The collaboration scheme is planned to involve researchers and students from Deakin University, Faculty of Biology UGM, and BRIN through KONEKSI or Knowledge Partnership Platform Australia-Indonesia, a collaborative research funding program between Indonesia and the Australian Government. Apart from that, collaboration through double degrees with LPDP support was also initiated.

It is hoped that this meeting will be the initiation of collaboration between the School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University and the Faculty of Biology UGM, National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) as well as through academic collaboration and sustainable research (SDG 4 and 17), especially in ecological and conservation research for ecosystem sustainability (SDG 15).

Yogyakarta, August 27, 2024 – The Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) hosted a special gathering to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Class of 1974 on Tuesday, August 27, 2024. The event, held from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, took place in the Tropical Biology Auditorium at the Faculty of Biology UGM, with approximately 25 alumni in attendance.

This event became a moment filled with warmth and nostalgia for the attending alumni. They were warmly welcomed by the Dean, Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., as well as Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., the Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Cooperation, and Alumni at the Faculty of Biology UGM, who in their remarks shared the progress of the Faculty of Biology UGM to date and expressed appreciation for the dedication and contributions of the alumni in advancing the field of biology.

The event was marked by stories and memories of the past, as alumni shared their experiences and developments over the last 50 years. This gathering also served as a platform to strengthen the bonds between alumni and the faculty, with hopes of continued collaboration in supporting the future growth of the Faculty of Biology UGM (SDGs 8, SDGs 17).

The reunion concluded with the exchange of mementos and a group photo, symbolizing their unity and unwavering support for their beloved alma mater. This 50th-anniversary celebration is expected to be the beginning of many more alumni activities that will further strengthen the network of UGM Faculty of Biology alumni in the years to come (SDGs 16).

Yogyakarta, August 27, 2024 – The Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) held a discussion with the Indonesian Farmers Association (Himpunan Kerukunan Tani Indonesia, HKTI) to explore research collaboration on the development of downstream porang products. The meeting took place on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, from 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM in the KPTU Meeting Room at the UGM Faculty of Biology, with the participation of HKTI representative Mr. Pahotan Sitonang.

The discussion focused on the significant potential of porang (Amorphophallus muelleri) as a strategic commodity for enhancing farmer welfare and national food security. Porang, a type of tuber widely grown in tropical regions, including Indonesia, is well-known for its high glucomannan content, which has various applications, particularly in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. Glucomannan from porang is often used as a base ingredient for products such as flour and as a thickening and binding agent in various products. Mr. Sitonang emphasized the importance of optimizing porang development and highlighted how UGM’s Faculty of Biology could be a strategic partner in achieving these goals, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

From UGM’s Faculty of Biology, the discussion was attended by lecturers Prof. Dr. Purnomo; Aries Bagus Sasongko, S.Si., M.Biotech.; and Dr. Eng. Thoriq Teja Samudra, S.Si., M.Sc., along with educational staff members Eka Mega Sampurna, A.Md., and Annisa Mawarni, S.Si. During the meeting, UGM expressed its commitment to supporting porang development through research in tissue culture and the preservation of superior in-vitro cultured seeds. The research aims to produce high-quality porang varieties and ensure the sustainable availability of seeds for farmers, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure).

This collaboration aims not only to increase the productivity and quality of porang but also to strengthen Indonesia’s position in the global market as a leading producer of high-quality porang. UGM’s Faculty of Biology and HKTI are committed to accelerating the downstream application of research findings, so that the benefits can be quickly realized by farmers and the broader community.

Yogyakarta, August 24, 2024 – The Plant Systematics Laboratory organized a training on Plant DNA Barcoding to introduce and enhance molecular data processing competencies. The activity included DNA extraction, PCR techniques for DNA amplification, agarose gel electrophoresis, DNA barcoding, and DNA sequence analysis for systematic research—the event attended by 15 participants from the Faculty of Biology and the Graduate School of UGM.

The event opened by the Dean of the Faculty of Biology, Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc. He stated, “The diversity of living organisms is vast, and the genetic diversity is still not widely explored. This training was an excellent agenda to expand knowledge on genetic diversity.” Following this, the Head of the Plant Systematics Laboratory at the Faculty of Biology UGM, Prof. Dr. Ratna Susandarini, M.Sc., delivered her remarks, expressing appreciation for the participant’s enthusiasm in joining the training sessions.

The day one training involved lectures and practical sessions delivered by Dr. Istiana Prihatini, M.Si. from the Center for Applied Botanical Research, National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), on plant DNA extraction using the conventional CTAB method and DNA extraction kit. Dry and fresh leaf samples used for the DNA extraction practical session. All participants successfully isolated DNA from their samples, which will used for DNA amplification on the second day training.

The day two training involved the preparation of PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) using the DNA samples extracted the day before. This stage aimed to amplify specific DNA segments for further analysis. Subsequently, participants were given a lecture on the basic principles of PCR and sequencing by Prof. Dr. Ratna Susandarini, M.Sc., highlighting the essential steps in genetic analysis. Participants were also equipped with knowledge about DNA Barcoding, an essential technique in plant systematics research, presented by Abdul Razaq Chasani, M.Si, Ph.D., a lecturer at the Plant Systematics Laboratory. After the presentation, the analysis continued with electrophoresis.

One of the participants, Nabila from the Faculty of Biology UGM, appreciated the training activities. “The training was fascinating and enjoyable. The speakers and facilitators delivered theory and practical sessions excellently, clearly, and structured. The understanding of the DNA Barcoding process from start to finish was explained in detail, including data analysis.”

The Plant DNA Barcoding Training reflects the contribution of the Faculty of Biology UGM, particularly the Plant Systematics Laboratory, in supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by providing high-quality training to enhance education (SDG No. 4). Furthermore, the DNA Barcoding training materials can improve participants’ skills, which can later provide positive benefits for the conservation of terrestrial ecosystems in line with SDG No. 15.

The event was officially closed by the Head of the Plant Systematics Laboratory, followed by a group photo session. This two-day training emphasized the importance of strengthening the capacity and capabilities of the Plant Systematics Laboratory in molecular activities, particularly DNA Barcoding.

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.

Yogyakarta, 21 August 2024 – The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada received a visit from Professor from Kyushu University Japan, Prof. Noritaka Mochioka. The visit was received in the KPTU Meeting Room, Faculty of Biology UGM by Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc. as Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration and Alumni Affairs, Dr. Bambang Retnoaji, M.Sc. as Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs, as well as Lecturers from the Animal Development Structure Laboratory, Faculty of Biology, Nur Indah Septriani, M.Sc., Ph.D., and Zuliyati Rohmah, Ph.D.

This visit is the second time Prof. Noritaka Mochioka visited the Faculty of Biology UGM after 2017. He was also present as a guest lecturer on several previous occasions. During this visit, Prof. Noritaka Mochioka expressed his enthusiasm for developing research related to eel with Nur Indah Septriani, Ph.D. who is also a graduate of Kyushu University, Japan.

Dr. Eko welcomed Prof. Noritaka Mochioka. During the visit, various cooperation initiatives were presented that could be collaborated with Kyushu University, including student exchanges up to double degrees. Previously, the Faculty of Biology UGM also established good cooperation with a student exchange scheme through the Sakura Science Program with Yamagata University, Japan.

Prof. Noritaka Mochioka also had the opportunity to give a public lecture, taking place in the Tropical Biology Auditorium, UGM Faculty of Biology, moderated by Nur Indah Septriani, Ph.D. He delivered a public lecture entitled “Life History and Conservation of Freshwater Eel”. Dr. Eko as Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration and Alumni Affairs, was also present to give an introductory speech at the public lecture.

Prof. Noritaka Mochioka started the lecture by explaining how marine products have become an important commodity for Japanese community. Both marine products that are commonly consumed and those that are less common, such as pufferfish, are processed to make them suitable for consumption. He focuses his research on eel or eel or what is commonly known as unagi. Prof. Noritaka Mochioka highlighted the diversity, distribution of eels in Japan and the world and their high nutritional quality, but the price is not yet affordable. He focuses on developing eels that are highly nutritious but can be reached by the wider community.

The public lecture was followed by a question-and-answer session. Participants were very enthusiastic about attending the lecture and were interested in learning about eels. It is hoped that this public lecture can become a forum for inspiration for collaboration as well as strengthening collaborative relations, especially between the Faculty of Biology UGM and Kyushu University Japan in the future, in line with the commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals for increasing inclusive education and expanding cooperation (SDG 4 and 17) at the same time. contribution to the preservation of marine ecosystems (SDG 14) and the development of functional food that is affordable for communities (SDG 12).

Yogyakarta, August 21, 2024 – The Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) welcomed a visit from the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences (FPIK) at Universitas Padjajaran (Unpad) for a benchmarking activity focused on the Biodiversity Curator Professional Study Program (PKKH). The visit took place on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, from 3:00 – 4:15 PM, in the KPTU Meeting Room at the Faculty of Biology, UGM.

The delegation from FPIK Unpad, consisting of 6 lecturers and 4 students, was warmly received by the leadership of UGM’s Faculty of Biology. The FPIK Unpad representatives included Dra. Sri Astuty, M.Sc.; Dr. Yeni Mulyani, S.Si., M.Si.; Dr. H. Sunarto, S.Pi., M.Si.; Buntora Pasaribu, S.Pi., M.Sc., Ph.D.; Dr. Eri Bachtiar, S.Si., M.Si.; and Dr. Yuniarti, MS, S.Pi., M.Si.

On behalf of UGM’s Faculty of Biology, the event was attended by Dr. Bambang Retnoaji, M.Sc., Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs; Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Cooperation, and Alumni; as well as Rina Sri Kasiamdari, S.Si., Ph.D., Head of the Biodiversity Curator Professional Program. Additionally, two staff members from UGM’s P2MKSA Unit were also present.

The visit aimed to study and gain a deeper understanding of the Biodiversity Curator Professional Program, which has recently been established at UGM’s Faculty of Biology. During the meeting, both parties engaged in discussions about the curriculum, program management, and potential collaboration opportunities in academic and research fields (SDGs 4).

In his opening remarks, Dr. Eko stated, “We warmly welcome our colleagues from FPIK Unpad and hope that this benchmarking activity will serve as a starting point for closer collaboration in the future, particularly in the development of programs focused on biodiversity conservation and management (SDGs 14 and SDGs 15).”

On the other hand, Dr. Yuniarti, Head of Bachelor Program Study the FPIK Unpad delegation, expressed her gratitude for the warm reception from UGM’s Faculty of Biology. She also expressed her hope that the results of this benchmarking activity could be applied in the development of programs at FPIK Unpad.

The visit concluded with the exchange of souvenirs between the two institutions and a group photo session as a memento. This visit is expected to strengthen the synergy between the two institutions in advancing education and research in the field of biodiversity in Indonesia (SDGs 16 and SDGs 17).

Yogyakarta, August 21, 2024 – The Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) is honored to host Kantaro Okada, an exchange student from Japan whose academic journey reflects a deep commitment to environmental sustainability and global learning. Kantaro’s background in International Relations and his passion for environmental science have motivated him to participate in the student exchange program at UGM, where he is currently pursuing studies in Biology and Environmental Science.

Kantaro recognizes the challenges that come with living in Yogyakarta, including language barriers and cultural differences. However, he views these challenges as opportunities for growth, which have made him more open-minded and eager to learn. His ability to adapt and embrace a new environment is a testament to the resilience often seen in exchange students.

Supported by his family, Kantaro expressed gratitude for the unwavering encouragement from his father, mother, and younger brother. Their support has been instrumental in his decision to pursue studies abroad, reinforcing the importance of family in educational endeavors.

Kantaro’s hobbies, including watching Western movies and dramas and listening to Western music, have not only provided leisure but have also enhanced his English language skills. These interests have contributed to his broader understanding of different cultures, aiding his adjustment to life in Yogyakarta.

What sets Kantaro apart is his unconventional academic path. Despite majoring in International Relations in Toyo University Japan, his decision to join the Faculty of Biology at UGM is driven by a personal mission to combat deforestation. His father owns a furniture shop that uses Indonesian trees, which has made Kantaro acutely aware of the environmental impact of deforestation. Determined to contribute to nature conservation, Kantaro is pursuing biology to gain a deeper understanding of natural systems and explore sustainable practices.

During his time at UGM, Kantaro has expressed a particular interest in courses on Plant Biosystematics and Plant Structure and Secretory Tissue Products. He aims to gain a comprehensive understanding of biological sciences from a global perspective, which will enable him to make informed decisions that align with environmental sustainability.

Kantaro Okada’s academic journey at UGM aligns with several of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly:

Kantaro’s dedication to education and environmental conservation serves as an inspiration to his peers and underscores the critical role that international exchange programs play in advancing the SDGs. His journey highlights the importance of global learning and interdisciplinary approaches in addressing pressing environmental challenges.