Mangroves are vital ecosystems that play an important role in climate change mitigation and low-carbon development. Recognizing their significance, the Center of Excellence for Mangrove (COE for Mangrove) at Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU) has collaborated with two esteemed organizations, PUI Neuromarketing and PUI Diabetic Care & Tech from Universitas Prima Indonesia (UNPRI), to organize a summer course titled “Journey Among North Sumatran Mangroves.” This event aims to provide students with a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of mangroves and gain insights from top scientists in the field.
The summer course will be held from August 30, 2023, to September 3, 2023, at the main campus of Universitas Prima Indonesia’s 7 Research Station, PUI Mangrove USU. The program offers a comprehensive curriculum comprising classroom lectures, field trips, and engaging activities related to mangrove rehabilitation and ecotourism.
A distinguished panel of lecturers will guide the participants throughout the course. The lineup includes renowned experts such as Prof. Mohammad Basyuni and Dr. Bejo Slamet from COE for Mangrove, USU; Dr. Severino Salmo III from the University of the Philippines; Dr. Virni Arifanti from the National Research and Innovation Agency; Dr. Arif Nuryawan from COE for Mangrove, USU; Dr. Itchika Sivaipram from Chulalongkorn University, Thailand; Dr. Sigit Sasmito from the National University of Singapore; Dr. Apri Heri Iswanto from COE for Mangrove, USU; Dr. Rizki Edmi Edison from PUI Neuromarketing, UNPRI; Dr. Ok Yulizal from PUI Diabetic Care & Tech, UNPRI; Dr. Frida Sidik from the National Research and Innovation Agency; and Dr. Amy Then Yee Hui from the University of Malaya, Malaysia.
The participants will have the opportunity to learn from these experts and engage in meaningful discussions on topics such as mangrove ecology, conservation strategies, and the role of mangroves in climate change mitigation. The combination of classroom lectures and field trips will provide a holistic learning experience, allowing students to observe and study mangroves in their natural habitat.
Moreover, the summer course aims to promote ecotourism and ecoprint practices among the participants. Ecotourism activities will offer students a chance to explore the beauty of North Sumatran mangroves while promoting sustainable tourism practices. Additionally, the participants will actively participate in rehabilitation activities, contributing to the restoration and preservation of mangrove ecosystems.
To encourage participation, full scholarships are available for 30 passionate and committed students, with an equal representation of 15 international and 15 Indonesian students. Undergraduate and postgraduate students from all disciplines are welcome to apply and join this enriching program.
For more information and registration, interested individuals can visit the official websites of the event: mangrove.usu.ac.id and puimangroveusu.id. Contact persons Rizka (+62 823-0411-2175) and Shofiyah (+62 857-6767-6738) are available for further inquiries.
The “Journey Among North Sumatran Mangroves” summer course promises to be an unforgettable experience, blending academic knowledge, field exploration, and a commitment to preserving these valuable ecosystems. By equipping students with a deep understanding of mangroves and their ecological importance, this event contributes to the sustainable development of our planet and fosters a new generation of environmental stewards.