As part of the implementation of the Cooperation Agreement (PKS) between the Faculty of Science and Technology (FST) at UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta and the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA) at Universitas Bengkulu (UNIB), the Biology Program at FST and the Department of Biology at UNIB jointly organized a seminar called “Mini Scientific Meeting” with the theme “Biology in Harmony.” The event took place on Wednesday, June 5, 2024, at the FST Theater. The invited speakers included Dr. Sipriyadi, MSi, who serves as the Head of the Biology Department at UNIB, and Lela Susilawati, PhD, a lecturer in the Biology Program at FST.

The seminar began with an opening address by the Head of the Biology Program at FST, Najda Rifqiyati, M.Si. In her speech, she emphasized the importance of collaboration within the three pillars of higher education (teaching, research, and community service). She highlighted the need to expand networks to enhance the quality of education for both institutions. Furthermore, she emphasized the value of sharing knowledge, which contributes to curriculum development aligned with the competencies required for current and future graduates. The PKS established between the two institutions has been in effect for one year, initiated through collaborative research funded by the Research and Community Service Institute (LPPM) at UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta.

Dr. Sipriyadi’s presentation focused on research trends among students and faculty in the Department of Biology at UNIB. These trends include the isolation and identification of endophytic microbes from the iconic Rafflesia flower in Bengkulu Province. Additionally, they explore the potential of these microbes for various applications, such as antibiotic production. Dr. Sipriyadi also discussed the study of microbial diversity in Pulau Enggano, which is considered indigenous due to its relative isolation. Other research topics involve detecting non-halal ingredients in food products (e.g., meatballs) and investigating the biopreservation potential of indigenous plants from Pulau Enggano using their extracts. Dr. Sipriyadi emphasized that the exploration of biodiversity on Pulau Enggano remains open, and it could serve as a location for community service (KKN) or other collaborative activities.

Meanwhile, Lela Susilawati presented joint research conducted with the Department of Biology at UNIB. Their study, titled “Diversity of Microbiota from the Skin of Native Indonesian Frog Species and Its Potential as a Phytopathogen Biocontrol Agent,” successfully identified superior bacterial isolates. Ongoing laboratory investigations involve further exploring the potential of these isolates. The seminar concluded with discussions about potential collaboration in community service (PkM) and other student-involved activities between the Biology Program at FST and the Department of Biology at FMIPA UNIB in the future.