Inter University Bio-link 7.0, Collaboration of IPB University and Universiti Sains Malaysia Students

Dozens of students of Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) and IPB University conducted joint activities by organizing Inter University Bio-link 7.0. The event was held in the Auditorium of the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, IPB Dramaga Campus, (15/5).

Dean of USM School of Biological Sciences, Prof Amirul Al-Ashraf Abdullah in his speech said, Inter University Bio-link 7.0 is a biological science field trip program that is expected to benefit the relationship between students and lecturers of both universities.

Through this program, he continued, students can exchange knowledge and experience and help each other in the future. “I hope this event is not the last, but there will be joint activities between USM and IPB University,” he said.

Dean of the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences of IPB University, Dr Berry Juliandi conveyed some educational transformations at FMIPA IPB University. The sciences that will be developed include the establishment of two new schools, namely the School of Data Science, Mathematics and Informatics, the second is the School of Engineering.

In addition, Dr Berry mentioned that under the Department of Biology, FMIPA IPB University has IPB Culture Collection (IPBCC), a special unit for storing microbial collections. Currently, as a microbial culture collection maintenance and storage unit, IPBCC has become a member of the World Federation of Culture Collection.

Iwanni, one of the 2nd year USM students said that she was very happy to be able to participate in the Inter University Bio-link 7.0 activity. For her, being at IPB University does not need much adaptation, because it still has the same culture and weather as Malaysia.

“This activity can increase insight, exchange ideas, relationships, good relationships with IPB University students. I also hope there will be projects or activities together with IPB students,” he said.

The same thing was also conveyed by Muhammad Aiman, USM 3rd year student. “Being at IPB University (we) are very welcomed and warm. We don’t feel we are abroad, we are very familiar. Hopefully, IPB University and USM can collaborate together to make works involving students,” he said, hoping to work together to make projects related to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of Malaysia and Indonesia.

In the event, both universities explained the various programs and facilities provided in the biology department of their respective campuses, including the opportunity to take part in a summer course program at the Department of Biology of IPB University. Dr Iman Rusmana also gave an overview of how wide the career opportunities are for biology graduates. (IAAS/PRP)