The Biology program at UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta organized the 11th Professionalism Training on October 2, 2021, with the theme “Stem Cells Techniques and Research Prospects in the Future.” The guest speaker for this training was Mr. Wildan Mubarok, M.Si. The event commenced at 9:00 AM via Zoom. It began with the agenda read by Zidni Amaliyatul Hidayah, followed by the singing the Indonesian national anthem and the UIN Sunan Kalijaga hymn. Ibu Najda Rifqiyati, S.Si., M.Si., the head of the Biology program, delivered a welcoming speech, emphasizing the importance of absorbing knowledge from the guest speaker for both students and alumni.

Next, the program included the introduction of the speaker’s CV by Dian Aruni Kumalawati, M.Si., followed by the presentation by the guest speaker. The speaker began by explaining the concept of stem cells, their sources, ethical considerations in stem cell projects, methods of stem cell extraction, and their applications. Stem cells primarily function to regenerate damaged tissues—for example, hair regrowth after being cut. Currently, stem cells are used for anti-aging applications (such as memory enhancement), orthopedic treatments, and stroke therapy. Challenges in stem cell projects include determining the stem cell type, sourcing stem cells, optimal locations for therapy within the body, required cell doses, immune responses, and improving stem cell efficiency toward targeted locations.

The prospects of stem cells include transforming abnormal cells into normal ones, efficient drug delivery to patients, and even lab-grown meat. While stem cell advancements have been applied in orthopedic therapy and facial anti-aging in Indonesia, their use in agriculture and food production remains untapped.