Sabang, April 18–20, 2025 — More than one hundred students from the Department of Biology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA), Universitas Syiah Kuala (USK), participated in a three-day Field Practicum in the Jaboi area, Sabang City. Carrying the theme GLOW (Green Living for Our World), the program served as a significant momentum to instill ecological awareness and integrate biological knowledge with real-world environmental action.
The program was officially opened by the Head of the Biology Department, Prof. Dr. Lenni Fitri, S.Si., M.P., who emphasized the importance of nurturing scientists who are not only academically competent but also committed to environmental sustainability.
“Through this practicum, we hope students will not only gain conceptual understanding but also engage directly with nature, sharpen ecological sensitivity, and cultivate collaborative spirit with the community,” Prof. Lenni remarked.
The arrival of the students and faculty supervisors was warmly welcomed by the Keuchik (village chief) of Jaboi and the village administration, who expressed strong support for the activity. In his welcoming remarks, the Keuchik conveyed his hope that such initiatives continue and bring mutual benefits, particularly in raising environmental awareness among the community.
Guided by supervising lecturer Dr. Alia Rizki, M.Sc., students engaged in a series of scientific activities, including identification of local flora and fauna, soil and water sampling, environmental quality analysis, and exploration of Jaboi’s geodiversity, known as an active geothermal region. Students also observed tropical forest conditions and discussed conservation challenges in coastal and mountainous ecosystems.
“This is not an ordinary field practicum,” said Dr. Alia. “We want students to experience ecosystem complexity firsthand, understand interactions between living organisms and their environment, and see how classroom theories are applied in real contexts. With the GLOW theme, we aim to instill green living values relevant to today’s global challenges.”
The activity was attended by the Vice Dean for Student Affairs Dr. Ir. Wira Dharma, S.Si., M.Si., M.P., and supported by numerous lecturers who played active roles in mentoring students throughout the program: Prof. Dr. Lenni Fitri, Dr. Alia Rizki, Iqbar, Dr. Muhammad Nasir, Dr. Ir. Dahlan, Dr. Ir. Wira Dharma, Dr. Saida Rasnovi, Cut Nanda Defira, Widya Syahfitri, Imelda Mailani, Zulia Ananda, and Hendrix Indra Kusuma. The presence of these faculty members enriched the learning experience and demonstrated a shared commitment to the holistic development of student competencies academically, ethically, and ecologically.
One of the highlights was an interactive community outreach session, where students shared environmental education with the residents of Jaboi, focusing on water hygiene, forest protection, and sustainable resource management. The session received positive appreciation from the villagers, who welcomed the reciprocal learning atmosphere.
Jaboi was chosen for its unique landscape combining tropical biodiversity with rare volcanic and geothermal features. The presence of an active geothermal crater provided a remarkable experience for participants in understanding the interplay between geological and biological processes.
The GLOW Field Practicum concluded with a coastal cleanup initiative as a tangible environmental contribution. Returning from Jaboi, USK Biology students carried not only scientific data and reports, but also transformative experiences shaping them into future scientists with ecological insight and responsibility toward the planet we inhabit.
