The UGM Environmental Science Program initiated a summer course themed “Karst and Cave Sustainable Management” from July 29 to August 15, 2024. This summer course is part of UGM’s innovative academic and internationalization program aimed at enhancing the university’s visibility in interdisciplinary excellence. Lecturers and participants came from over 15 countries, with backgrounds including academics, researchers, environmental practitioners, community members, students, and institutional representatives. The program focused on speleology—the scientific study of caves, including their formation (speleogenesis), structure, physical characteristics, history, and biological aspects. Its objectives were to advance speleology through global knowledge exchange among practitioners, introduce and promote Indonesia’s unique speleological features, and increase global interest in speleological science.
(Karst and Cave Sustainable Management Summer Course 2024)
Throughout the program, participants gained in-depth insights into karst and cave systems from both local and international perspectives. The activities included on-site Online Courses, off-site International Conferences, and field trips. Participants not only received academic knowledge but also valuable practical experience that will benefit their future careers. According to them, the program provided a unique opportunity to expand their professional networks and understand the diversity of karst and cave ecosystems across different countries.
The first activity, the Online Course titled “Sharing with Experts on Cave and Karst Sustainable Management,” took place from July 29 to August 9, 2024. The course featured both Indonesian and international experts presenting topics such as karst and cave hydrology, geomorphology, and management practices from various countries. The second activity, the 5th Asian Trans-Disciplinary Karst Conference 2024, was held on August 12–14 at the Graduate School Building. The conference consisted of six symposiums and was attended by 35 presenters and eight keynote speakers from 17 countries. The summer course concluded with a field trip to karst and cave sites around the Special Region of Yogyakarta, including the Indonesian Karst Museum in Wonogiri, Serpoan Cave in the Gunung Sewu karst region, and Baron Beach.
This initiative demonstrates UGM Environmental Science’s support for SDG 15 (Life on Land). Furthermore, through international collaboration, UGM not only supports karst conservation but also exemplifies its commitment to scientific development and global partnerships. The program contributes to SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), strengthening global cooperation for sustainable development by engaging various stakeholders to mobilize and share knowledge, expertise, and technology to support karst conservation worldwide.
Author: Izza A