However, in this case, a team from the UGM Faculty of Biology and the University of Edinburgh created a robot using the real skeleton of a monitor lizard. 

This collaboration resulted in a necrobot monitor lizard capable of simple movements, serving as a learning tool in animal systematics. 

This technology integrates science and engineering through cooperation between the two universities.

Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, a lecturer at Biology UGM, and Dr. Parvez Alam, a lecturer at the University of Edinburgh, initiated the research in September last year. 

The idea began when Dr. Alam invited Leo Foulds and Nadia Ditta, two of his master’s degree students from the School of Engineering at the University of Edinburgh, to come and work at the Animal Systematics Laboratory, Biology UGM, to study reptile skeletons, particularly those of monitor lizards and snakes. 

“At that time, Biology lecturer Donan Satria Yudha provided information on the movement, taxonomy, and anatomy of reptiles in Indonesia,” Dr. Suyono explained in a statement to reporters on Friday (Feb. 7).

He said that during the first two weeks, the two teams divided tasks, with Dr. Alam recording the movements of live adult monitor lizards while walking. 

Then, both teams studied the mechanics of the monitor lizard’s bones and performed a CT scan of the skeleton to create a mold of it. 

“This skeleton mold would later be fitted with the robot machinery upon returning to Edinburgh,” he added.

In mid-January 2025, Dr. Alam contacted Dr. Suyono and Yudha to share a video showing the mold of the monitor lizard skeleton walking after being equipped with necrobot machinery. 

At the end of January 2025, Alam returned to the Faculty of Biology UGM to install the robot machinery onto the actual monitor lizard skeleton. 

“During the assembly of the robot machinery onto the monitor lizard skeleton, Yudha was assisted by Frans from the Museum of Biology and several students,” Dr. Suyono said.

The assembly process involved Yudha, a lecturer from the Animal Systematics Laboratory, working with FX Sugiyo Pranoto from the UGM Museum of Biology, and several students, including Rashif Naufal Andika, Ananto Puradi Nainggolan, Maula Haqul Dafa, Arkanniti Dibyawedha Adisajjana, and Afif Fatah Rizki.

Assembling the robot machinery onto the actual monitor lizard skeleton, according to Dr. Suyono, was not easy. 

Dr. Alam completed it in three days, successfully creating a necrobot monitor lizard capable of simple movements. 

This result was very satisfying, considering the materials, composition, and structure differences between the mold and the actual bones. 

Dr. Alam later donated the necrobot monitor lizard to the Animal Systematics Laboratory, Biology UGM, as a new learning tool for lecturers and students. 

“For the Faculty of Biology, the process of studying and assembling necrobots from a monitor lizard skeleton provides new knowledge,” he concluded.

Author: Jelita Agustine

Editor: Gusti Grehenson

Post-editor: Afifudin Baliya

Artikel UGM and University of Edinburgh Create Necrobot Using Monitor Lizard Skeleton pertama kali tampil pada Universitas Gadjah Mada.

UGM Biology lecturer Dr. Ganies Riza Aristya is researching the fungus Rhodotorula glutinis, commonly known as red yeast, as an alternative energy source. 

This fungus can be found in various environments and isolated from air, soil, grass, lakes, seas, food, fruits, human skin, and human waste. 

This research aims to optimize the use of microorganisms for bioenergy production as a renewable energy source to replace fossil fuels.

Dr. Aristya mentioned the potential of red yeast as an alternative energy source. Red yeast has great potential due to its ability to accumulate and produce large amounts of lipids. 

“In some cases, lipid accumulation in R. glutinis can reach 72.4%, making it a potential lipid producer for energy sources,” she told reporters on Thursday, Feb. 6, 2025.

Its ability to produce large amounts of lipids comes from a biosynthetic pathway that allows this microorganism to convert various carbon sources into high-value compounds, including lipids or other biopolymers. 

The development of lipid products can go beyond biofuels to biopolymer products such as bioplastic polymers like polyhydroxybutyrate.

“Optimizing the synthesis of essential compounds in this red yeast can be done through process, genetic, or metabolic engineering,” he explained.

Dr. Aristya said the selection of red yeast or R. glutinis as research material is based on its ability to accumulate high levels of lipids, particularly triacylglycerol (TAG), which can be converted into energy in the form of biofuel. 

“R. glutinis was also chosen because of its ability to grow on various substrates,” he said.

Not stopping there, red yeast’s ability to produce lipids over 15% of its dry cell weight, it can also metabolize various compounds used as carbon sources, such as monosaccharides, disaccharides, polysaccharides, organic acids, glycerol, raw materials, industrial by-products, and wastewater.

It is important to note that this fungus produces and accumulates lipids in large amounts when nitrogen is limited but carbon is sufficient. 

Under such conditions, the yeast redirects its metabolism to lipid biosynthesis as an energy reserve in the form of Triacylglycerol (TAG).

The resulting lipids can be extracted and converted into biodiesel as an energy source. 

“The lipids obtained from the yeast cells will be converted into biodiesel through transesterification, reacting TAG with methanol to produce biodiesel as fatty acid methyl ester (FAME). The biodiesel obtained can be used as energy,” she said.

Research on the genetic engineering of this microorganism has been ongoing for eight years. 

For this research, Dr. Aristya and her team received a research grant from the Indonesia Toray Science Foundation (ITSF) under the Science and Technology Research Grant (STRG) category. 

With her work titled ‘Yeast Bioengineering for Sustainable Lipid-Based Energy Production from Rhodotorula glutinis,’ Dr. Aristya was one of 18 recipients of the STRG-ITSF award in 2025 on Jan. 30 in Jakarta.

Author: Jelita Agustine  

Editor: Gusti Grehenson

Post-editor: Lintang Andwyna Nurseisa Azrien

Artikel UGM Lecturer Studies Potential of Red Yeast for Alternative Energy Source pertama kali tampil pada Universitas Gadjah Mada.

This event takes place in two locations: at Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, from Jan. 21-23, 2025, and continues in Tarakan, North Kalimantan, from Jan. 24 to Feb. 8, 2025.

16 WSU students, 6 UGM students, 3 WSU lecturers, and several UGM Biology lecturers attended the ISC opening. 

The event began with a report by Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Cooperation, and Alumni Affairs of Biology UGM, who also serves as the Chairperson of the International Summer Course. 

“This activity is a follow-up to the collaboration between UGM and WSU, which has been established over the past few years,” said Dr. Suyono on Thursday (Jan. 30).

Professor John Charles Hunt, a representative from WSU, expressed hope that this event would continue and expand collaboration in research and academia. 

A similar sentiment was shared by Professor Puji Astuti, Director of Partnerships and Global Relations at UGM, who expressed appreciation for this collaboration, mentioning that this ISC is the second in January 2025 after the partnership with Monash University and UGM Vocational College (SV UGM). 

“I believe the focus of this summer course on biodiversity and environmental sustainability, as well as UGM’s role in supporting conservation efforts in Kalimantan and Papua, is highly relevant,” she said.

The Dean of Biology UGM, Professor Budi Setiadi Daryono, noted that Yogyakarta is a special place with its rich culture and natural resources and hoped that ISC participants would take advantage of the opportunity to explore various aspects during their time there.

The summer course participants visited the UGM Biology Museum, guided by Donan Satria, a lecturer in Animal Systematics at Biology UGM. They were enthusiastic about learning about the museum’s history, role, and collections.

The participants then engaged in field activities at the Marine Research Station of Biology UGM on Porok Beach, Gunungkidul. 

These activities included intertidal sampling and biodiversity observation at the beach, led by Dr. Rury Eprilurahman, who focused on animals, and Dr. Thoriq Teja Samudra, who focused on macroalgae. 

Martin Holland, WSU’s International Summer Course Coordinator, mentioned that this field trip served as a warm-up before the main summer course agenda in Tarakan, Kalimantan.

Professor Daryono stated that this ISC could strengthen the collaboration between WSU and Biology UGM, opening up opportunities for further cooperation in academics and research while contributing to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals. 

“With this spirit of collaboration, it is hoped that similar activities will continue and further strengthen the relationship between UGM and WSU, supporting conservation and nature preservation efforts in Indonesia and globally,” he concluded.

Report by: Biology UGM/Ichsan Risalba

Author: Jelita Agustine

Editor: Gusti Grehenson

Post-editor: Afifudin Baliya

Artikel UGM and WSU Hold International Summer Course on Biodiversity in Gunungkidul and Tarakan pertama kali tampil pada Universitas Gadjah Mada.

Furthermore, the president’s comparison of palm oil plants to natural forest plants was considered misleading. 

The Dean of UGM’s Faculty of Biology and Chair of the Indonesian Biology Consortium (KOBI), Professor Budi Setiadi Daryono, strongly rejected the expansion of palm oil plantations, which could threaten the return of forest destruction and biodiversity loss. 

“We strongly oppose the president’s plan. Numerous studies have shown that palm oil plantations cannot serve as wildlife habitats, and biodiversity is almost non-existent in these plantations,” said Professor Daryono in a statement sent to journalists on Friday, Jan. 10, 2025.

According to him, extensive palm oil plantations with monoculture models have proven to increase human-wildlife conflicts and reduce the populations of protected species such as orangutans, elephants, rhinos, and Sumatran tigers. 

“Flora and fauna, particularly those under protection, are increasingly threatened due to deforestation caused by palm oil plantation expansion,” he explained.

Additionally, President Prabowo should implement Presidential Instruction No. 5 of 2019 on the cessation of new permits and the improvement of the management of primary natural forests and peatlands. 

“From this Presidential Instruction, an area of 66.2 million hectares of forest and peatlands, equivalent to the size of France, can be saved from destruction,” he said.

Professor Daryono also emphasized that the government should remain consistent in enforcing regulations, particularly Presidential Instruction No. 1 of 2023 on the integration of biodiversity conservation into sustainable development. 

Furthermore, he argued that Prabowo’s statement equating palm oil plants with forest plants was misleading to the public, as the Ministry of Environment and Forestry has already issued regulations clarifying that palm oil is not a forest plant. 

“Ministerial Regulation No. P.23/2021 clearly states that palm oil is not considered a plant for forest and land rehabilitation,” he noted.

Finally, he urged the president to be more cautious when expressing his opinions to avoid causing public controversy or misleading statements. 

He suggested that the National Development Planning Agency (Bappenas) should formulate policies, especially those with significant impacts on society, the environment, and global implications, with the involvement of relevant ministries, experts, practitioners, and civil society. 

“This way, the impacts of new policies on society, the environment, and the national economy can be predicted,” he explained.

Similarly, Professor Hadi Ali Kodra and Dr. Wiratno, advisory board members of the Indonesian Biodiversity Index Committee (IBI)-KOBI, reminded the government to remain committed to global interests through the ratification of various international conventions, including the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (UNCBD), the Convention on International Trade of Endangered Species of Flora and Fauna (CITES), and the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of International Importance, among others.

According to them, Indonesia is one of the world’s megadiverse countries, alongside Brazil and Congo. 

Combined with its marine waters, Indonesia is home to the Coral Triangle, placing the country at the forefront globally. 

The vast biodiversity in Indonesia should be protected, not destroyed through deforestation.

Indonesia is home to 125 million hectares of state-owned forest areas surrounded by 27,000 villages. 

In conservation areas covering 26.9 million hectares, more than 16 million farming families reside in over 6,700 villages. 

“Thus, the conservation of forests directly impacts the safety and well-being of millions of farming families,” they concluded.

Author: Gusti Grehenson

Post-editor: Lintang Andwyna Nurseisa Azrien

Photo: Freepik and Econusa

Artikel UGM Expert Warns Against Deforestation Risks of Palm Oil Expansion pertama kali tampil pada Universitas Gadjah Mada.

The award, presented by the Directorate General of Higher Education, Research, and Technology, recognizes outstanding contributions by academics and researchers. The ceremony took place on Friday (Dec. 13) at Graha Diktisaintek, Jakarta.  

Professor Daryono was awarded for his research, “Genetic Characterization and Bioprospecting Potential of ‘Gama Melon Parfum’ as a Cosmetic Ingredient.” He expressed his gratitude and highlighted the importance of utilizing Indonesia’s natural resources for societal benefits.  

“I am grateful and delighted by this recognition, which motivates me and my colleagues—faculty, staff, and students—to continue contributing to the nation,” he said during an interview at UGM on Wednesday (Dec. 18).  

Through modern biotechnological approaches, Professor Daryono developed a unique Gama Melon Parfum cultivar by crossbreeding two parental strains, NO3 and MR5. The resulting melon is small, with a bitter taste but a distinct, strong aroma. This aroma is extracted and processed into cosmetic products, including perfumes.  

“The Gama Melon Parfum has unique genetic characteristics. It contains cucurbitacins and other secondary metabolites that are highly valuable for the cosmetics industry,” explained Professor Daryono.  

Indonesia’s cosmetics market is dominated by imported products, often leading to higher prices. Professor Daryono’s innovation leverages local resources, promoting affordability and sustainability and reducing dependency on imports.

Each Gama Melon Parfum plant can produce 4–10 fruits weighing between 50 and 400 grams, with a harvest period of just 55–58 days. This innovation enhances the local cosmetics industry and supports eco-friendly production.  

Two products derived from Gama Melon Parfum—shampoos and soaps—have been commercialized. 

The shampoo is marketed under the brand NAHLA. It was developed in collaboration with PT Gizi Indonesia and PT Nudira Sumber Daya Indonesia through the Productive Innovative Research Program (RISPRO)-LPDP. Production is carried out in hydroponic greenhouses in Pangalengan, West Java.  

The research team is also investigating the anticancer and antidiabetic potential of Gama Melon Parfum’s bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids, terpenoids, and saponins. 

“This unique cultivar must continue to be developed,” said Professor Daryono.  

The cultivation of innovative plant varieties like Gama Melon Parfum is expected to boost the welfare of local farmers while fostering national self-reliance in the cosmetics and geomedical industries.  

Professor Daryono hopes his achievement inspires fellow academics and students to explore Indonesia’s biodiversity further. 

“As academics, our duty is to uncover the potential of Indonesia’s natural diversity. Let this award be a turning point for us to continue creating for the nation,” he concluded.  

Author: Tasya  

Editor: Gusti Grehenson 

Artikel UGM Professor Receives Academic Leader Award for Developing Melons as Cosmetic Ingredients pertama kali tampil pada Universitas Gadjah Mada.

Family members and UGM’s academic community bid farewell to the late professor at the UGM Family Cemetery. 

Many officials, faculty leaders, lecturers, administrative staff, and students expressed their heartfelt condolences to the family during the memorial service at UGM’s Balairung on Sunday, Dec. 1, 2024.

Chair of the UGM Board of Professors, Professor M. Baiquni, conveyed his profound sorrow and invited the academic community to pray and pay their final respects to the deceased. 

“May Allah SWT grant him the best place, and all his good deeds be accepted. May his family be given patience, strength, and sincerity in this time of loss,” he stated.  

Professor Baiquni reminisced about Professor Sagi as a kind and patient individual who fostered a comforting atmosphere as an internal medicine and nephrology specialist in academic and professional settings. 

He was dedicated and persistent in contributing to his field of expertise.  

He was inaugurated as a professor during the University’s Open Session on Apr. 26, 1999, exactly 25 years ago.

On that occasion, he delivered an inaugural lecture titled “Embryology in Applied Biology Models.” 

In his speech, he highlighted the importance of studying embryonic development in animals, emphasizing its future potential if pursued professionally. 

For instance, cattle embryos could be researched for livestock development.  

Furthermore, Professor Sagi pointed out the potential of animal embryos, such as tiger embryos, for the conservation of endangered species. 

He also suggested exploring the embryos of less-studied species to spark innovations for future use.  

According to his biography, Professor Sagi was born in Wates, Kulonprogo, Yogyakarta, on Jun. 13, 1945. 

He began his career as a lecturer in 1970 and was promoted to professor in 1998. 

During his tenure, he received the 25-Year Loyalty Award in 1996, the Satyalancana Karya Satya 20-Year Award in 1999, and the Satyalancana Karya Satya 30-Year Award in 2001.  

Author: Tiefany  

Editor: Gusti Grehenson  

Photographer: Donnie  

Post-editor: Lintang

Artikel UGM Professor Mammed Sagi Passes Away pertama kali tampil pada Universitas Gadjah Mada.

The conference, which brought together 528 delegates from 39 countries, representing 76 universities and 37 research institutions, served as a platform for academic exchange in ornithology across Asia, promoting research and conservation efforts. 

Ornithology, as a field, focuses on the study of bird physiology, evolution, and behavior.  

Organized by the International Ornithology Union (IOU), the Institute of Zoology at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the International Zoological Society, the China Ornithological Society, and the Avian Research journal, the event awarded Dudi Nandika the “First Prize Poster Award” and Dwi Agustinathe “First Prize Presentation Award.” 

Both also received Travel Awards from the AOC Committee.  

Nandika, a doctoral student at UGM’s Faculty of Biology, presented his research titled “Recent Data Analysis of Feeding Guilds in Bird Communities as Bioindicators for Manusela National Park Management in Maluku.”

His study explores bird population data and species composition in Manusela National Park, intended to support area management and inform policy decisions regarding bird species conservation.  

Nandika explained that the research was motivated by the alarming threat of illegal hunting in Maluku, where 86% of confiscated wildlife is bird species. 

He emphasized the ecological importance of birds in ecosystems and the urgent need for policies to protect avian species in the park. 

“Illegal hunting poses the greatest threat to wild birds in Maluku. Of the wildlife seized by the Natural Resources Conservation Agency, 86% are birds,” Nandika stated on Monday (Nov. 25).  

The bird species in Manusela National Park represent various habitat types and elevations. Their ecological roles make them vital indicators of environmental health and habitat changes. 

“Effective policies are needed to protect bird species in Manusela National Park,” he added.  

Meanwhile, Agustina, a master’s student from UGM’s Faculty of Biology, presented her research, “Aligning Cockatoo Conservation Efforts with Local Huaulu Customary Wisdom on Seram Island, Maluku, Indonesia.” 

Her study examines conflicts between the Huaulu indigenous community and the government. The Huaulu people traditionally hunt cockatoos to use their crests in cultural ceremonies, which conflicts with the government’s conservation efforts.  

“This research was conducted to find a peaceful solution to this conflict,” Agustina explained. 

The study identified a compromise that satisfied both parties: the use of naturally shed cockatoo feathers in traditional ceremonies. This allows the Huaulu people to uphold their customs without hunting the birds, thereby supporting conservation goals. 

“This agreement aligns cockatoo conservation efforts with the Huaulu community’s local wisdom,” she noted.  

Agustina expressed hope that conservation efforts in Maluku would succeed in restoring endangered species populations. 

“By reactivating the seli kaitahu customary practice to manage hunting and forest use in indigenous territories, we can help depleted wildlife populations recover,” she said.  

The Dean of UGM’s Faculty of Biology, Professor Budi Setiadi Daryono, applauded the two students’ achievements and stressed the importance of their research for Indonesia’s communities. 

He noted that the students have long been active in bird conservation, particularly of parrots, and that this conference provided them with opportunities to promote their work, expand their networks, and deepen their expertise globally.  

Author: Hanif  

Editor: Gusti Grehenson

Post-editor: Afif

Artikel Two UGM Students Win International Awards for Parrot Population Study in Manusela National Park pertama kali tampil pada Universitas Gadjah Mada.

It allows for the rapid identification of pathogenic microorganisms, a deeper understanding of the genetics of specific species, and accurate ecosystem mapping. These applications support researchers in tackling issues at various scales, from cellular to ecosystem levels.

On Nov. 15-16, the Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (Biology UGM) held a mini-workshop highlighting key developments in molecular biology and the latest technologies in sequencing and metabarcoding data analysis. The workshop aimed at understanding microbiome composition and identifying organisms at the molecular level. 

“Participants also had the opportunity to learn directly from practitioners and experts who are partners of Biology UGM,” said the Dean of Biology UGM, Professor Budi Setiadi Daryono, in a written statement sent on Monday (Nov. 18).

Professor Daryono mentioned that this mini-workshop, organized as part of the Biology UGM’s Research Day, involved several of the faculty’s leading laboratories, such as the Microbiology Laboratory and the Genetics and Breeding Laboratory, to provide practical experience for the participants.

In the first session, participants learned about the Promega Maxwell Automated DNA/RNA Extraction and DNA QC using the Agilent Tapestation, essential for ensuring accurate research results at the molecular level. 

The second session focused on ONT Sequencing and metabarcoding Data Analysis, explaining how to use the latest technologies in sequencing and metabarcoding data analysis to understand microbiome composition and identify organisms at the molecular level.

With the theme of Molecular Biology, this research day, according to Daryono, served as an event to disseminate research and community service outcomes while introducing the latest technologies in biology to the wider public. 

“We want to highlight the importance of biology in human life, from molecular-level research to ecosystem dynamics,” he said.

The Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, and Collaboration at Biology UGM, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, noted that this research exhibition activity has strengthened cooperation between universities, industries, and the community, serving as a catalyst for research and innovation in the field of biology.

Meanwhile, Ririn Tri Nurhayati, Head of the Research Program Sub-directorate from UGM’s Directorate of Research, also attended and expressed appreciation for the successful organization of Research Day as a platform to benefit society through advances in knowledge and technology. 

“Research Day is a platform to transfer knowledge related to technology to the public through a mini-workshop supported by advanced equipment,” said Nurhayati.

Author: Leony

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Post-editor: Afifudin Baliya

Artikel UGM Introduces Cutting-Edge Technology in Molecular Biology pertama kali tampil pada Universitas Gadjah Mada.

Two delegates from UTS visited the UGM campus on Wednesday (Nov. 6) to discuss this.

The Dean of the UGM Faculty of Engineering (FT UGM), Professor Selo, warmly welcomed the meeting with UTS representatives, who were exploring opportunities for collaboration between UTS and UGM. 

One such opportunity would allow UGM to send prospective PhD students to continue their studies at UTS. 

“This effort is aimed at strengthening cooperation between UTS and UGM while introducing students to the international learning environment,” said Professor Selo.

Distinguished Professor Alaina Ammit, Associate Dean for the Faculty of Science at UTS, stated that this visit was to follow up on the collaborative discussions initiated in 2023. 

She described the opportunity for collaboration between UTS and UGM as a bridge between the two universities to exchange experiences and collaborate in research. 

“Moreover, UGM students who continue their studies at UTS are academically excellent,” said Professor Ammit.

She explained that UTS is a relatively young university. Established in 1988, UTS has quickly become one of the largest universities in Australia, with approximately 44,000 students. 

UTS also offers excellent campus programs with cutting-edge facilities supporting learning and research activities. Located in Sydney, Australia, UTS provides a welcoming and conducive environment for students worldwide.

The discussion on collaboration extends beyond student exchanges. UGM is also exploring opportunities for institutional cooperation in research. 

Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration, and Alumni at the UGM Faculty of Biology (Biology UGM), mentioned that this research collaboration would be carried out through research grants. 

“We hope to collaborate with UTS, one of the top universities in Australia and the world, to expand UGM’s partnerships and improve the quality of education and research for both students and faculty,” explained Dr. Suyono.

Meanwhile, Dr. Endang Soelistiyowati, Vice Dean for Collaboration and Alumni at UGM Vocational School (SV UGM), expressed hope that this collaboration would enhance research quality and strengthen institutional ties between UGM and UTS. 

“The research will cover areas such as clean energy, energy transition, water, clean water availability, and smart cities,” she said.

Dr. Soelistiyowati further noted that this collaboration could expand to include visiting professors and keynote/invited speakers for public lectures held at UGM. 

Given the significant potential for collaboration, further meetings and discussions will be held to draft a memorandum of understanding that reinforces UGM and UTS’s dedication to cooperation. 

“This collaboration is expected to strengthen UGM’s relationships with international partners,” she concluded.

Author: Lazuardi

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Photographer: Donnie

Artikel UGM and UTS Explore Opportunities for Research Collaboration and Student Exchange pertama kali tampil pada Universitas Gadjah Mada.

Around 1,000 m² area used by KWT Rejosari is leased from village land and provided free of charge. 

The land development also receives support from the agricultural extension workers (PPL), while UGM supplies seeds and oversees productivity improvements for KWT Rejosari.

Dr. Raden Roro Upiek Ngesti Wibawaning Astuti, the person in charge of UGM’s Community Service Team, explained that the faculty has been involved in mentoring KWT Rejosari since 2013, initially in Mrican and recently expanded to Kledokan in Caturtunggal. 

Dr. Upiek, as she is commonly known, expressed her commitment to continuing support for KWT until they achieve independence. 

“I’m confident that UGM will not turn its back, as there are 14 KWTs here that need nurturing. We hope these fourteen KWTs can become self-sufficient. We will continue to coordinate with the local government and may involve other faculties as well,” she explained.

With the 1,000 m² land, the team will prepare vegetable plant seeds and invite KWT Rejosari to plant, maintain, and help build infrastructure such as irrigation pipes.

“Our students will also be actively involved; they will come to help water and care for the plants,” she stated.

Through the community service program, Dr. Upiek mentioned that the aim is to provide agricultural guidance and foster collective awareness among KWT members about the importance of optimal and environmentally friendly land use. 

“We want KWT members to become more aware of the economic potential that can be achieved through sustainable agriculture,” she added.

KWT Rejosari in Kledokan Hamlet has 30 members who have planted superior crop varieties such as baby cucumbers, spinach, long beans, and peanuts. 

Martin, the chair of KWT Rejosari, conveyed that the harvest is not only for personal consumption among members but also for commercial sale. 

“We don’t have difficulties in marketing. When we have a bountiful harvest, our members post on social media to sell the produce to their contacts. We then coordinate it,” Martin said.

The collaboration between the UGM Faculty of Biology and KWT Rejosari is also expected to serve as a model for collaborative agriculture between academia and local communities. 

Through UGM’s involvement, KWT members gain better technical agricultural knowledge, including efficient planting and plant care techniques.

Author: Rahma Khoirunnisa  

Editor: Gusti Grehenson  

Post-editor: Lintang

Artikel Promoting Food Gardens, UGM Faculty of Biology Partners with Rejosari Women’s Farming Group pertama kali tampil pada Universitas Gadjah Mada.