UNAIR NEWS – Airlangga Global Engagement (AGE), in collaboration with the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and the Faculty of Health, Medicine, and Natural Sciences (FIKKIA), has successfully organized the Airlangga Adventure (AIRVENTURE) 2024. This program took place at two main locations: Surabaya and Banyuwangi. The event aimed to showcase the region’s natural resources and encourage efforts to preserve marine biodiversity.
The AIRVENTURE 2024 activities in Banyuwangi spanned from Friday, August 30, 2024, to Sunday, September 1, 2024. On the first day, 100 international students attended sessions on marine biodiversity in Banyuwangi.
The participants engaged directly in coral reef planting at Bangsring Underwater, where they learned about different coral species and their vital role in the marine ecosystem. Additionally, they had the opportunity to snorkel and witness the underwater beauty and diverse marine life in Banyuwangi’s waters.
Introduction to FIKKIA and turtle conservation efforts
The second day’s activities were held at the Mojo Campus Hall, where participants were briefed on the various academic programs and unique strengths of the Faculty of Health, Medicine, and Natural Sciences (FIKKIA).
Susy Katikana Sebayang, Ph.D., a Faculty Ambassador for Airlangga Global Engagement, highlighted that each program at FIKKIA has its unique strengths. “For instance, the Veterinary Medicine program is known for its expertise in wildlife conservation, focusing on the protection and preservation of endangered species,” she explained.
Following this, Aditya Yudhana, M.Sc., provided an overview of unique facts about sea turtles and the conservation efforts FIKKIA has undertaken in partnership with the Banyuwangi Sea Turtle Foundation (BSTF). He detailed various conservation initiatives by UNAIR, such as the “Intan Box” and “Sari Box” innovative projects which have improved the hatching success rates of sea turtle eggs.
Concluded at Red Island
On the third day, the participants visited Pulau Merah (Red Island), a popular tourist destination in Banyuwangi, where they enjoyed the scenic beauty of the beach and had the chance to engage more closely with nature.
One participant, Colton Dubé from Douglas College, shared his experience in Banyuwangi: ” Banyuwangi is a remarkable place for hands-on learning in nature. This experience has inspired me to continue contributing to environmental conservation,” he expressed.
AIRVENTURE 2024 has provided international students with a valuable opportunity to understand the importance of environmental conservation and marine biodiversity in Indonesia, particularly in Banyuwangi. The experience is expected to encourage more people to participate in efforts to sustain the environment for future generations.
Author: Bintang
Editor: Edwin Fatahuddin
