YOGYAKARTA, January 21, 2026 – The Doctoral Program in Environmental Science at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) recorded a proud achievement at the Graduation Period II for the 2025/2026 Academic Year, held on January 21, 2026. Two students from the program successfully won awards at the UGM Graduate School level for outstanding achievements in two different categories. This success is not only a testament to individual excellence but also highlights the quality of research that is highly relevant to contemporary environmental challenges.
(Iga Maliga)
The first achievement was earned by Iga Maliga, a student of the Environmental Science Doctoral Program who was named the Fastest Graduate of the Doctoral Program across the Graduate School. This feat was achieved through her persistence in completing a dissertation titled “Sustainable Domestic Greywater Management in Small Islands of Coastal Areas (Case Study: Bungin Island, Sumbawa Regency).” Iga’s success reflects high academic commitment and effectiveness in completing doctoral research on time, particularly in providing sanitation solutions for densely populated coastal regions.
(Natasha Belandina Cornelin Abolla)
At the same time, the award for the Youngest Graduate of the Doctoral Program across the Graduate School was achieved by Natasha Belandina Cornelin Abolla. During her doctoral studies, Natasha conducted in-depth research titled “Study of Soil-Borne Disease Incidence in Shallots Through an Environmental Condition Dynamics Approach in Coastal Areas.” Her success in completing her doctoral degree at a very young age reflects dedication, discipline, and superior academic capacity in understanding the complex interactions between the environment and food security.
The success of these two individuals in winning different award categories underscores the quality of education management within the UGM Environmental Science Doctoral Program. A conducive academic environment and strong supervisory support are key factors for every student to achieve optimal performance according to their respective strengths. This proves that the synergy between students and the institution is capable of producing experts ready to contribute to society and scientific advancement.
(Graduates’ Achievement)
These achievements are also closely aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) through the success of high-quality higher education. Furthermore, Iga Maliga’s research provides a tangible contribution to SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) and SDG 14 (Life Below Water). Meanwhile, the study conducted by Natasha is closely related to SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) through the protection of food commodities, as well as SDG 15 (Life on Land). Through the expertise of these two new doctors, it is hoped that innovative solutions will emerge to support sustainable environmental management in the future.
Author: Selamita Rusdiana (Student), Editor: Ulyn Nuha (Staff)