On Wednesday, 28 May 2025, the University of Medan Area (UMA), in collaboration with UI GreenMetric, successfully held the Biodiversity Workshop 2025 under the theme “Doing SDGs in Higher Education: The Story of Our Institution and Society.” The online event gathered around 130 participants from universities across Indonesia, creating a dynamic platform for dialogue and knowledge exchange on the role of higher education institutions in promoting sustainable development—particularly in the field of biodiversity.
The program began with a formal opening and the Indonesian national anthem, Indonesia Raya, symbolizing unity and shared commitment to environmental stewardship. The opening remarks were delivered by key academic leaders and sustainability figures. UMA Rector, Prof. Dr. Dadan Ramdan, M.Eng., M.Sc., highlighted the university’s commitment to sustainability and its integration into campus culture. This was followed by Prof. Dr. Ir. Hadiyanto, S.T., M.Sc., National Coordinator of UI GreenMetric Indonesia, who emphasized the importance of collaborative networks in fostering sustainable practices across institutions. Prof. Dr. Ir. Riri Fitri Sari, M.M., M.Sc., Chairperson of UI GreenMetric World University Rankings, concluded the opening segment by underlining the need for embedding SDG values in academic systems and societal engagement.
The keynote address, initially planned to be delivered by the Governor of North Sumatra, Muhammad Bobby Afif Nasution, was instead presented by Asep Perry M. Athorized, S.P., Head of Environmental Management and Forest Spatial Planning Division. His speech emphasized the importance of strengthening partnerships between government bodies and universities to advance biodiversity protection and sustainable land management in Indonesia.
In the first thematic session, Dr. Junaidi, S.S., M.A., Vice Chair of UI GreenMetric, presented an overview of biodiversity initiatives within the UI GreenMetric World University Rankings Network (UIGWURN) in Indonesia. His presentation illustrated how universities are taking meaningful steps to measure, report, and improve their biodiversity-related practices in alignment with global sustainability goals.
The second session featured a compelling set of institutional experiences and best practices in managing campus biodiversity. Prof. Dr. Dadan Ramdan returned to share UMA’s strategies for integrating biodiversity into university planning and operations. Ika Listiana, M.Si., from UIN Raden Intan Lampung, discussed efforts to develop environmentally conscious and sustainable campus models. Meanwhile, Dr. Ir. Andrey Andoko, M.Sc., Rector of Universitas Multimedia Nusantara, offered insights into building environmental awareness in digital-native academic environments. The session also included a presentation by Dr. rer. agr. Eva Anggraini, S.Pi., M.Si., Director of Global Connectivity at IPB University, who emphasized the value of international research collaboration in driving impactful environmental change.
The discussion continued with a fruitful Q&A session, where numerous insightful questions were raised by participants. The exchange of ideas enriched the dialogue around how universities can implement sustainability principles more effectively and inclusively across teaching, operations, and community outreach.
The workshop concluded with closing remarks, affirming the importance of sustaining this kind of academic collaboration. As part of the UI GreenMetric movement, this event underscored the collective responsibility of higher education institutions to lead the way in achieving a greener and more sustainable future. By sharing knowledge, scaling best practices, and working across disciplines and sectors, universities play a vital role in shaping policies and cultures that support the Sustainable Development Goals
Written by Riska Hariyadi - Communication Specialist of UI GreenMetric
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