Dean of FP UNS, Prof. Dr. Ir. Samanhudi, S.P., IPM, ASEAN Eng, APEC Eng, represented Universitas Sebelas Maret. Meanwhile, Lilianawati represented PT SMART Tbk’s as Power of Attorney Holder for the Board of Directors. She also serves as Head of HR Central Business Services. They signed the cooperation agreement on Thursday (27/2/2025). Key company representatives also attended, including Yudi Heriyadi, Lead HRBP Upstream Operations, and Tiara Aninditia, Development Program Recruiter Team Lead. Pradjna Dewi Y., HR Staff and Employer Branding, was also present.

The signing took place at the Supratoyo Building Meeting Room, FP UNS. Vice Dean for Non-Academic Affairs, Prof. Dr. Ir. Mujiyo, S.P., M.P., attended the event. Vice Dean for Academic Affairs, Dr. Gusti Fauza, S.T., M.T., was also present. There were also several Heads of Undergraduate, Master’s, and Doctoral Study Programs within FP UNS.

Strengthening Industry-Academic Collaboration

Lilianawati expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership. “We hope this collaboration provides students with valuable opportunities to join our programs. Through these initiatives, students will receive training and may even secure a ‘Golden Ticket’ to become employees at our company.”

She also emphasized the mutual benefits of this agreement. “In the future, we aim to develop joint programs aligning with labor market demands, particularly for UNS graduates,” she added.

Dean Prof. Samanhudi welcomed the collaboration, highlighting its importance. “This agreement is the result of our recent visit to PT SMART Tbk. We are grateful that the company has formalized this commitment.”

He also underscored the need for strong industry-university ties. “We are excited to work closely with the industry. Universities must actively engage with businesses to stay relevant in today’s job market.”

Preparing Future Palm Oil Industry Experts

To support Indonesia’s palm oil sector, FP UNS is developing specialized courses and internship programs. “The industry demands a highly skilled workforce. If we do not adapt, we will struggle to compete with other universities. FP UNS introduces specialized courses on palm oil studies and increases student internships at palm oil companies,” Prof. Samanhudi stated.

This collaboration between UNS and PT SMART Tbk serves as a concrete step toward achieving SDG Goal 17. It is ‘Partnerships for the Goals.’ Through education and industry cooperation, the university contributes to sustainable workforce development in Indonesia’s palm oil sector.

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The Rector of Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) Surakarta, Prof. Dr. Hartono, dr., M.Si., personally inaugurated Prof. Minar. The inauguration occurred at the Open Session of the Academic Senate on Tuesday (11/2/2025). It took place at the G.P.H. Haryo Mataram Auditorium at UNS. Prof. Minar now holds the position of the 50th Professor at the Faculty of Agriculture (FP) and the 342nd Professor at UNS.

In her speech, Prof. Minar emphasized that Indonesia’s strategic location on the equator provides it with abundant natural resources (SDA). These resources support Indonesia’s potential for food self-sufficiency, allowing the country to meet its food needs. Despite this, Indonesia remains one of the world’s largest food importers. To address this issue, Prof. Minar introduced an innovative agricultural method aimed at boosting domestic agricultural productivity.

Introducing the SRI Method for Improved Agricultural Productivity

“I will present an innovation in rice cultivation known as SRI (System of Rice Intensification). It offers a solution to achieve food self-sufficiency in Indonesia. This method is highly productive, adaptive, water-efficient, and environmentally friendly, as it optimizes the potential of agroecosystems. By applying SRI, production can increase by 3 to 4 times per planting hole,” Prof. Minar said.

Research Findings Support the SRI Method’s Economic Benefits

Prof. Minar shared significant research findings on the SRI method, which highlights its economic advantages. Studies conducted in Bantul, Sleman, and brackish water-affected lands in Segara Anakan, Nusa Kambangan, show substantial increases in the R/C ratio. SRI practices help reduce variable costs by up to 40% and increase production per unit of land. Research from Eastern Indonesia reveals that SRI can thrive in areas with limited irrigation. It boosts yields by up to 3,3 tons/ha. SRI also cuts water usage by 40%, reduces synthetic fertilizer use by 50%, and lowers production costs by 20%.

Moreover, Prof. Minar presented international research on the SRI method. In Andhra Pradesh, India, studies found that SRI had a higher benefit-cost ratio of 1,76. This was compared to 1,25 for conventional methods, resulting in a 31% increase in crop yields. Research in Korea showed that SRI can reduce water usage by 55,6%. It also decreases irrigation needs and lowers non-point source pollution (NPS) from rainfall or melting snow. However, the main challenge of the SRI method is its management and maintenance.

The SRI Method: A Solution for Food Self-Sufficiency

“The research results demonstrate that the SRI method, combined with modified irrigation practices, is versatile. It can be applied in diverse environments such as desert regions, brackish water-affected lands, and dry or marginal lands. SRI enhances soil texture, biodiversity, and increases rice tiller numbers, leaf area index, and crop yields. It also reduces irrigation water needs and production costs. These factors provide significant economic advantages compared to conventional methods. Therefore, the SRI method is a promising solution for achieving food self-sufficiency in Indonesia,” Prof. Minar concluded.

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UNS Rector, Prof. Dr. Hartono, dr., M.Si., officially appointed Prof. Erlyna as Professor at the G.P.H. Haryo Mataram Auditorium on Monday (10/2/2025). During the event, Prof. Erlyna delivered an inaugural speech. The title of her speech was “Development of the ‘Porang’ (Amorphophallus muelleri Blume) Industry Towards the Global Market.”

Increasing Global Demand for Carbohydrate-Rich Foods

In her speech, Prof. Erlyna highlighted the growing global food consumption driven by population growth. She emphasized that the fundamental food need is carbohydrate-rich foods, primarily derived from cereals and tubers. Tubers, in addition to being carbohydrate sources, contain antioxidants that help protect the body from free radicals.

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Asia has seen an increase in tuber consumption. This includes both staple and complementary foods. In particular, the Pacific region incorporates tubers into its traditional food culture, contributing to the rising demand. Commonly consumed tubers include sweet potatoes, cassava, gadung (Dioscorea hispida), gembili (Dioscorea esculenta), talas (Xanthosoma sagittifolium), and porang.

Economic Potential of Porang

Among these tubers, porang has shown the most significant growth in production and processing due to its high economic value. The tuber contains glucomannan, a substance used in various industries. It serves as a thickening agent, emulsifier, stabilizer, and gelling agent in food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and chemical sectors.

Though porang, also known as “iles-iles,” has gained popularity recently, Indonesians have used it for centuries. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for porang surged. At that time, sellers priced glucomannan-rich shirataki rice at over IDR 200.000 per kilogram. Meanwhile, they sold porang tubers in Madiun Regency for IDR 15.000 per kilogram.

“The development of the porang agro-industry brings substantial financial benefits. It also creates opportunities for product diversification, enhances farmers’ welfare, and boosts national export value,” Prof. Erlyna explained.

Porang’s Global Market Potential

Porang holds significant potential as one of Indonesia’s leading export commodities. However, its development requires technological support, processing innovations, and government policies.

Challenges remain in the market. Its monopsonistic nature limits access, price stability, and information flow for business actors. Technological issues include removing oxalic acid and glucomannan extraction—processes that many porang entrepreneurs have yet to master. Furthermore, strict import standards for porang products—whether tubers, chips, or crepes—pose additional barriers.

Collaboration for Industry Development

To foster a sustainable porang industry, Prof. Erlyna advocates for a penta-helix approach. This includes collaboration between the government, businesses, academia, communities, and media. This collaboration can strengthen every aspect of the porang value chain, from production to marketing.

The porang industry can thrive in both domestic and global markets by implementing suitable policies and advancing technology. Supporting research, diversifying products, empowering farmers, and improving supply chains are also essential for its growth.

“The penta-helix model is an effective framework for collaboration. It is also the key to enhancing the competitiveness and sustainability of Indonesia’s porang industry,” Prof. Erlyna concluded.

Rector’s Expectations for New Professors

Rector Prof. Hartono reminded newly inaugurated professors to utilize their expertise to contribute to sustainable development. He urged them to remain dedicated to producing high-quality scientific work that addresses societal and national challenges.

“I hope the newly appointed professors will contribute to solving various national and global challenges,” Prof. Hartono said.

The addition of new professors in the field of Food Agribusiness will help advance research efforts. This supports Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Number 2: Zero Hunger. Professors in this field play a vital role in food security and efficient food distribution. They also contribute to developing innovative solutions to combat hunger.

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UNS delegation included Prof. Dr. Mujiyo, S.P., M.P., Vice Dean for Non-Academic Affairs and Chief Editor of Jurnal Caraka Tani. Also present were Dr. Gusti Fauza, S.T., M.T., Ph.D., Vice Dean for Academic Affairs. The Jurnal Caraka Tani editorial team was also in attendance.

Sharing Knowledge to Improve Journal Quality

During the meeting, Widhi Dyah Sawitri, S.Si., M.Agr., Ph.D., explained UGM’s primary goal. The aim was to exchange knowledge on the management and publication processes of academic journals. Additionally, they focused on the indexing processes at FP UNS.

“We aim to discuss ways to enhance journal quality and improve the publication process. This benchmarking effort is vital for Jurnal Vegetalika as we prepare to compete nationally and internationally,” Widhi said.

She further highlighted that they chose FP UNS for the benchmarking visit because of Jurnal Caraka Tani. Like Jurnal Vegetalika, it covers various agricultural disciplines. Jurnal Caraka Tani has already earned Scopus Q2 and Sinta 1 indexing, making it a valuable reference.

“Jurnal Caraka Tani is widely regarded as a high-standard academic journal in scientific publishing. It serves as an excellent benchmark for understanding high-quality publication processes,” Widhi added.

Strengthening Collaboration and Improving Journal Management

Widhi expressed hope that this visit would foster strong collaboration between Jurnal Vegetalika UGM and Jurnal Caraka Tani UNS.

“Through this collaboration, we aim to improve journal management, including article quality, peer review processes, indexing, and overall journal reputation. These improvements will help our journals become more competitive, gain higher accreditation, and contribute significantly to agricultural science,” she explained.

Building Stronger Relationships for Global Competitiveness

Prof. Dr. Mujiyo, S.P., M.P., Vice Dean for Non-Academic Affairs FP UNS, welcomed the UGM delegation. He expressed appreciation for their benchmarking initiative. The event continued with a detailed presentation and Q&A session on managing Jurnal Caraka Tani, led by Prof. Mujiyo.

Contributing to Global Agricultural Development

The efforts to improve agricultural journal publications align with global initiatives to end hunger and achieve food security. They also aim to improve nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture. These objectives are part of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). They specifically align with Goal 2: ‘Zero Hunger’ and Goal 4: ‘Quality Education.”

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Vice-Rector for Student Affairs and Alumni, Prof. Ir. Doddy Ariawan, S.T., M.T., Ph.D., reported that this period’s KKN includes four schemes. 260 students are participating in the Java Partnership Scheme, 231 in the Non-Java Partnership Scheme, 458 in the Faculty Partner Scheme, and 670 in the Thematic-Regular Scheme.

The KKN program will take place in various regions across Indonesia, covering seven provinces. In Java, Central Java and East Java serve as KKN locations, while areas outside Java include Bali, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), Maluku, and Southeast Sulawesi (Sultra). This broad distribution reflects UNS’s commitment to serving diverse communities.

KKN activities will be conducted in 22 districts and cities. In Central Java, students will be stationed in 12 locations: Blora, Boyolali, Cilacap, Grobogan, Karanganyar, Klaten, Magelang, Sragen, Sukoharjo, Surakarta, Temanggung, and Wonogiri. In East Java, the program will take place in Madiun and Pacitan. In NTB, students will serve in Bima, North Lombok, and East Lombok. In Bali, the locations are Denpasar and Tabanan. Meanwhile, Lembata in NTT, Central Maluku in Maluku, and Wakatobi in Sultra are also designated KKN areas.

UNS has assigned 83 Field Supervisors (DPL) to guide students during the program. The supervisors are faculty members from 14 faculties and one school, including the Vocational School, the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA), the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education (FKIP), the Faculty of Arts and Design (FSRD), the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (FISIP), the Faculty of Agriculture (FP), the Faculty of Sports (FKOR), the Faculty of Medicine (FK), the Faculty of Law (FH), the Faculty of Engineering (FT), the Faculty of Animal Husbandry (Fapet), the Faculty of Psychology (Fapsi), the Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB), the Faculty of Cultural Studies (FIB), and the Faculty of Information Technology and Data Science (Fatisda).

UNS Rector, Prof. Dr. Hartono, dr., M.Si., conveyed a message to the students, highlighting that KKN is a vital implementation of the Tridarma Perguruan Tinggi (Three Pillars of Higher Education), specifically in community service. This program is expected to provide invaluable experiences in character development, leadership, and social skills.

“Through KKN, students are not only expected to apply the knowledge they have gained in class but also to learn from the social and cultural dynamics of the communities they serve,” Prof. Hartono said.

He emphasized the importance of carrying out responsibilities with creativity, innovation, and a sense of accountability. Students were encouraged to build good relationships with local communities, respect their traditions and cultures, and become agents of positive change in their respective areas.

“They will be deployed across seven provinces, from central to eastern Indonesia, carrying programs designed to address the specific needs of the communities,” he added.

KKN is one of the ways that UNS contributes to community service. The program activities can encompass various aspects of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), depending on the types of initiatives carried out. KKN UNS program aims to address social, economic, and environmental challenges in the participating regions, making a tangible contribution to sustainable development.

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In her speech, Prof. Widyatmani emphasized the critical role of agriculture in meeting global food needs amid a growing population. With Indonesia’s population reaching approximately 284,5 million, its food supply heavily relies on agriculture. Globally, soil contributes 95–98,8% of the world’s food supply and plays a vital role in producing healthy food. Healthy soil is essential for human health as it serves as a vital living system that sustains biological productivity, maintains environmental quality, and enhances the health of plants, animals, and humans.

However, healthy food production faces significant challenges, as about 33% of the world’s soil has been degraded. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) warns that by 2050, 90% of the Earth’s topsoil will be at risk. Other pressing challenges include climate change, rising global temperatures, droughts, increased salinity, floods, emerging pests and diseases, and reduced soil biodiversity—threats that jeopardize food security.

“Soil is a fragile natural resource. Degraded soil is difficult to renew and highly vulnerable to various stresses. Recognizing this, the FAO declared December 5 as World Soil Day to highlight the importance of sustainable soil management for food security. Therefore, maintaining soil health must be a policy priority,” Prof. Widyatmani, the 48th Professor in the Faculty of Agriculture at UNS, explained.

Earthworms are often regarded as repulsive creatures, and their presence is frequently ignored. However, they are hidden heroes playing a crucial role in our ecosystems. Let’s get to know these remarkable soil dwellers better. Earthworms are visible soil organisms that are hermaphroditic, feed on organic residues, and thrive in moist soil. They are classified into three ecological categories: epigeic, which are surface-dwelling decomposers breaking down organic litter; anecic, which move vertically between the soil surface and deeper layers, creating vertical soil porosity; and endogeic, which remain within the soil, forming horizontal pores. Based on their functions, earthworms can be described as litter dwellers, soil excavators, intensive tunnel diggers, and bioturbators that turnover and improve soil. These activities make earthworms indispensable for maintaining healthy soil ecosystems and promoting sustainable agriculture.

Earthworms play a pivotal role in preventing and repairing soil degradation by improving soil structure and enhancing microbial activity through their digging and feeding behaviors. These actions improve the hydrological functions of the soil by creating porosity, aeration, and water infiltration. Additionally, earthworms enhance soil fertility by facilitating nutrient cycling.

Beyond their role in soil health, earthworms contribute to climate change mitigation. They help sequester soil carbon through their castings and regulate greenhouse gas emissions. As decomposers of organic waste and agents of bioremediation for contaminated soils, earthworms demonstrate their value as ecological champions.

Earthworms also serve as bioindicators of soil health, reflecting the overall condition of the soil. Furthermore, they provide economic opportunities for communities. Practices such as earthworm farming (vermiculture) and organic waste composting (vermicomposting) produce high-quality vermicompost biomass that can be sold, turning earthworms into valuable assets for sustainable agriculture and local livelihoods.

“Earthworms support agricultural sustainability and soil health. Promoting earthworm-friendly farming practices is crucial for sustainable food production. Integrating these practices into agricultural systems is a pathway to sustainability,” Prof. Widyatmani noted. Examples of such practices include minimum tillage, organic fertilizer application, cover cropping, reducing chemical pesticides and fertilizers, and earthworm inoculation.

Prof. Widyatmani’s expertise aligns with the goals of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 15, focusing on life on land and ecosystem preservation.

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In his remarks, Prof. Joko, who also serves as the Director of the Directorate of Student Affairs at UNS, emphasized that agricultural production heavily depends on the quantity and quality of land resources. He identified two major challenges in enhancing agricultural production: the reduction in farmland area and land degradation. The shrinking of agricultural land is primarily driven by the conversion of farmland for non-agricultural uses. Additionally, declining soil fertility is often attributed to land management practices that disregard conservation principles.

Prof. Joko Sutrisno underscored the necessity of implementing agricultural land management practices that adhere to conservation principles. Such practices can mitigate erosion, thus preventing land degradation. In upstream watershed areas, proper conservation can prevent issues such as declining land productivity, reduced farmer income, and the emergence of critical lands. Meanwhile, in downstream watershed areas, conservation efforts can mitigate sedimentation in lakes or reservoirs, flooding, and drought.

“Land degradation has significant economic consequences. These losses can be quantified by conducting an economic valuation of the damage to land resources and its resulting impacts,” Prof. Joko Sutrisno stated.

Prof. Joko’s expertise includes calculating the economic losses caused by land degradation. This involves estimating the replacement costs required to restore the land to its original physical, chemical, and biological state. In downstream areas, the valuation focuses on the reduced or lost functions and environmental services.

Based on Prof. Joko’s in-depth economic valuation, the losses resulting from land degradation are substantial. Preventing degradation through conservation principles is essential for maintaining land fertility. This approach positively impacts agricultural productivity, ensuring it remains sustainable. Prof. Joko’s recommendations are regarded as vital contributions to achieving long-term food self-sufficiency.

The Chair of the UNS Professorial Council, Prof. Drs. Suranto Tjiptowibisono, M.Sc., Ph.D., in his remarks during the inauguration, highlighted the importance of sustainability advocated by Prof. Joko Sutrisno. He emphasized that the contributions of professors, particularly those still young at the time of their inauguration, are eagerly awaited through future research and innovations.

“From Prof. Joko Sutrisno, we learn that agricultural activities must incorporate conservation principles to safeguard land resources and maintain soil fertility, ensuring the sustainability of agricultural production,” Prof. Suranto said.

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Prof. Supriyadi highlighted that this green campaign is part of efforts to fulfill the FOLU Net Sink 2030, a national target to mitigate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the forestry and land sectors. The aim is to achieve a net absorption level that exceeds emissions by 2030.

“Thank you to our distinguished guests for attending and supporting the green campaign agenda at Alas Bromo this morning. Today, we will carry out this green campaign activity, which is also an effort to support the FOLU Net Sink 2030—a mandate from the nation as land managers. This initiative is a joyful movement to ensure the forest’s continued preservation,” Prof. Supriyadi said.

The Head of the UNS Forest Education and Training Unit (UPT PPK) expressed hope that this initiative would not be limited to planting activities but would also emphasize maintenance. With proper care, he believes the planted seedlings will thrive and bring significant benefits to the wider community, particularly in reducing greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) and supporting sustainable living.

“This marks the second year of the program initiated by UNS, where each new student is encouraged to bring two plant seedlings. We hope this campaign goes beyond planting activities and focuses on nurturing the plants. By doing so, the seedlings will grow well and bring meaningful benefits. May Alas Bromo continue to provide advantages for the community,” Prof. Supriyadi added.

In his remarks, Prof. Zainal, representing the Rector of UNS, expressed the university’s strong support for the initiative. Through effective collaboration, this program aims to achieve sustainable forests by preserving and enhancing the economic, social, and environmental value of forest resources for the benefit of current and future generations. As the Director of the UNS Business Management Agency (BPU), he also emphasized UNS’s readiness to assist and oversee partnerships with various stakeholders to ensure the future success of Alas Bromo.

“On behalf of the Rector of UNS, Prof. Hartono, who could not attend this morning, I convey his support for the successful implementation of the Green Campaign Alas Bromo 2024,” Prof. Zainal stated. “This agenda, a collaboration between the government and UNS, is expected to contribute to achieving sustainable forests, ensuring that forests serve as a cornerstone for shared needs. At BPU, we will strive to assist in overseeing partnerships with various parties so that Alas Bromo can provide even greater benefits to the surrounding communities,” he added.

Prof. Zainal further expressed his hopes that this initiative would continue to provide long-lasting benefits for future generations. “May the trees planted today benefit us and our descendants. We seek the support of local governments and communities to realize the future vision for Alas Bromo. Let this be a sustainable effort,” he concluded.

KHDTK Gunung Bromo, known as Alas Bromo, spans 126,291 hectares and is managed by UNS through UPT PPK. Ten percent of this area can be developed by UNS for offices, buildings, or other public facilities.

The Green Campaign Alas Bromo 2024 supports Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 13, “Climate Action,” and SDGs 15, “Life on Land,” by addressing climate change, reducing GHG emissions, and enhancing resilience to its impacts.

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The Rector of UNS, Prof. Dr. Hartono, dr. M.Si., officially conferred the titles upon the six professors, emphasizing the university’s ongoing commitment to excellence in education, research, and community service. He highlighted the professors’ potential to address societal, national, and global challenges through their expertise.

“This inauguration is not only a proud moment for the newly appointed professors but also for the entire UNS academic community. I encourage everyone to use this occasion as inspiration and motivation to continue improving the quality of education, research, and innovation at UNS,” Prof. Hartono stated.

UNS Professors Commit to Sustainable Development

Chairman of the UNS Professorial Council, Prof. Drs. Suranto Tjiptowibisono, M.Sc., Ph.D., noted that all six professors acknowledged the importance of sustainability in their respective areas of expertise. Their work, he said, will be eagerly awaited through future research and discoveries, particularly as some of them are still relatively young in their careers.

“There is one term that all six professors seemed to agree upon—sustainable development. We hope they will continue the research and innovations they have started,” Prof. Suranto remarked.

Prof. Dr. Ir. Joko Sutrisno, M.P., has been inaugurated as the 46th Professor in the Faculty of Agriculture (FP) and the 321st professor at Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS). His expertise lies in Agricultural Resource Economics, and his inaugural speech was titled: “The Economic Valuation of Agricultural Land Conservation to Support Sustainable Food Self-Sufficiency.”

Prof. Dr. Ir. Agung Wibowo, S.P., M.Si. has become the 47th Professor in the Faculty of Agriculture and the 322nd Professor at Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS). He was officially inaugurated as a professor specializing in the field of Community Empowerment. In his inaugural speech, he presented a lecture titled “Community Empowerment as a Foundation for Integrating Agricultural Development, Creative Economy, and Ecotourism Towards Self-Reliance.”

Prof. Dr. Ir. Widyatmani Sih Dewi, M.P. has been inaugurated as the 48th Professor in the Faculty of Agriculture and the 323rd Professor at Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS). She has been officially recognized as a professor specializing in Soil Biology. In her inaugural lecture, she delivered a speech titled “Earthworms: Hidden Heroes for Agricultural Sustainability Amidst the Complexities of Global Challenges.”

Prof. Ir. Lilik Retna Kartikasari, M.P., M.Agr.Sc., Ph.D., IPU., ASEAN Eng. has been inaugurated as the 7th Professor in the Faculty of Animal Science (Fapet) and the 324th Professor at Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS). She was officially recognized as a professor specializing in Animal Product Technology. In her inaugural speech, she presented a lecture titled “The Potential of Omega-3 Meat and Eggs as Sustainable Functional Foods.”

Prof. Dr. Ir. Wahyu Purwo Raharjo, S.T., M.T. has been inaugurated as the 28th Professor in the Faculty of Engineering (FT) and the 325th Professor at Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS). He was officially recognized as a professor specializing in Manufacturing Engineering Technology. In his inaugural lecture, he delivered a speech titled “Development of Environmentally Friendly Composite Material Technology and Processing to Support Sustainable Development.”

Prof. Dr. Ir. Nurul Muhayat, S.T., M.T. has been inaugurated as the 29th Professor in the Faculty of Engineering (FT) and the 326th Professor at Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS). He was officially recognized as a professor specializing in Welding and Fabrication Technology. In his inaugural lecture, he presented a speech titled “Friction Stir Welding Technology: Opportunities and Challenges.”

These professors’ commitments align closely with global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those concerning sustainable development, innovative technologies, and environmental preservation. Their contributions are expected to significantly enhance UNS’s role as a leading institution in advancing sustainable and impactful solutions. Humas UNS

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The students, Pleun de Vries, Niels Baars, and Thomas Riewert Wierenga, all third-year students of the Water Management and Spatial Development program, initiated sustainable projects in Kelurahan Sumber (Urban Village), Kampung Kota Eks HP0001 Mojo, and Mojogedang District.

Pleun de Vries focused her research on organic rice farming and water contamination in Mojogedang, Karanganyar Regency. In her article, “Challenges in Organic Rice Cultivation as Cultural Landscape in Mojogedang, Karanganyar,” she highlighted pesticide usage by upstream farmers as a major obstacle for downstream organic farmers.

“The pesticide use by upstream farmers contaminates irrigation water, which hampers organic farming downstream and prevents certification. I collaborated with Mr. Mazlan, a Ph.D. candidate from the Chemistry Department, and Mr. Ari, a lecturer from the Faculty of Agriculture, to develop a water filtration system. We are also working with local governments to create policies regulating pesticide use,” Pleun explained on Tuesday (17/12/2024).

Niels Baars explored the interaction between humans and nature along the Kali Pepe River in Kampung Sumber. His article, “Re-naturalization of River Bank Settlement of Kali Pepe River Surakarta,” combined theoretical and practical analyses to propose sustainable urban riverbank designs. Niels emphasized the importance of post-implementation maintenance to ensure the long-term success of the project.

“Collaborating with the project team from the Department of Architecture, I contributed to developing a master plan to redesign the riverbanks. By incorporating vegetation, this design aims to improve water quality, reduce flood risks, prevent waste disposal, and create spaces that encourage interaction between the community and nature. Collaboration with key stakeholders, including the Sumber River Care Community (KPS Sumber), local residents, and Arifa Ummiyati, Head of Sumber Subdistrict, Banjarsari District, Surakarta City, as well as the Bengawan Solo River Basin Authority (BBWS Solo), was crucial in the development of this project,” Niels explained.

In Kampung Kota Eks HP0001 Mojo, Thomas Riewert Wierenga focused on improving livability through participatory and sustainable design strategies. Together with UNS students, he developed a “Green Map” to engage local communities in climate-positive actions.

“We proposed solutions such as multifunctional green spaces, waste management initiatives, and safe play areas for children. We also collaborated with the community to create public art installations to raise environmental awareness,” Thomas shared.

Over four months, the Dutch students and URDC FT UNS worked together to address environmental and community challenges in Surakarta. They emphasized the importance of stakeholder support to ensure project sustainability.

“My internship at the URDC Laboratory and UNS has been an unforgettable journey. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to work closely with farmers and local communities. The event in Mojogedang, particularly the discussions with farmers, provided invaluable insights for my research. I also gained new skills, such as writing review articles and integrating modern solutions with traditional practices. I hope the projects we initiated can be implemented, the farmers educated, and the government pays greater attention to these efforts,” Pleun said.

Thomas also shared that his internship experience with URDC UNS taught him how collaboration across different groups can lead to innovative and long-term impactful solutions. He noted that the culture of Surakarta and the resilience of its communities have inspired him to continue creating innovative solutions that prioritize people and the environment. He expressed his hope that the government would give more attention to the sustainability of community livelihoods, particularly in Kampung Kota.

Neils expressed his deep gratitude to Dr. Eng. Kusumaningdyah Nurul Handayani, S.T., M.T., for her guidance and support during his internship at URDC FT UNS. “Working with communities and stakeholders, as well as writing articles, has been an invaluable experience. This journey has truly been a life-changing opportunity for me. I hope this program will strengthen the harmony between the environment and society. I look forward to the chance to return to Indonesia in the future,” he said.

The collaboration between URDC and the three Dutch students aims to mitigate climate change’s impacts, enhance resilience to climate-related challenges and disasters, and promote the sustainable protection, restoration, and management of terrestrial ecosystems, including forests, grasslands, and soil. This initiative aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically Goal 13, “Climate Action,” and Goal 15, “Life on Land.”

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