Yogyakarta, 28 October 2025 — The Faculty of Geography and the Graduate School of Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) hosted a Guest Lecture titled “Remote Sensing for Environmental Science,” which was held in conjunction with the launch of the Environmental Spatial Data Analysis System, an innovative platform designed to support education and research in remote sensing. This activity is part of the ongoing academic collaboration between UGM and the Josaphat Microwave Remote Sensing Laboratory (JMRSL), Center for Environmental Remote Sensing, Chiba University, Japan.
The event featured two distinguished international speakers:
• Prof. Josaphat Tetuko Sri Sumantyo, Ph.D., Principal Researcher at JMRSL and Advisory Board Member of the Environmental Management Studio, UGM Graduate School.
• Prof. Tomoaki Tanaka, M.D., Ph.D., expert in disaster medicine and community resilience from Chiba University.
(Activity Documentation)
The program commenced with the official launch of the Environmental Spatial Data Analysis System, a spatial data analysis platform developed to strengthen research and learning activities in remote sensing and environmental sciences. This launch marked a significant step forward for UGM in providing modern academic infrastructure that enhances international research collaboration and elevates the quality of education. Representatives from both Chiba University and UGM participated in the launching ceremony, which was followed by a Studio Orientation session led by Prof. Josaphat for students currently preparing their theses.
The guest lecture session was opened by the Dean of the Faculty of Geography, Prof. Muhammad Kamal, S.Si., M.GIS., Ph.D., and the Dean of the Graduate School, Prof. Ir. Siti Malkhamah, M.Sc., Ph.D., IPU., ASEAN.Eng. In their presentations, Prof. Josaphat Tetuko discussed advancements in remote sensing technology for environmental management, while Prof. Tomoaki Tanaka addressed its applications in disaster medicine and efforts to enhance community resilience. The event was attended by more than 200 participants, including students from the MPL, MIL, MGeo-Info, MTPB, and DIL programs, as well as master’s students in Geography and participants from the broader academic community.
(Activity Documentation)
This activity provides an important contribution to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through improving the quality of education, utilizing technology for climate change mitigation and terrestrial ecosystem protection, and strengthening international academic partnerships between UGM and Chiba University, the event directly supports SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 15 (Life on Land), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). The implementation of cutting-edge research, technological innovation, and academic collaboration showcased in this event reflects UGM’s commitment to contributing to sustainable development at both national and global levels.
Through this international collaboration and the launch of the new system, UGM reinforces its position as a leading institution in the development of remote sensing and environmental sciences. This initiative stands as a testament to UGM’s dedication to promoting innovation, expanding global networks, and enhancing the quality of education and research to address future environmental challenges.
Author: Shinta P