Universitas Gadjah Mada Hosts International Forestry Summer Course on Sustainable Forest Management

Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) hosted the 10th International Forestry Summer Course from 7–20 July, bringing together students, researchers, and experts from 22 countries to strengthen international collaboration in sustainable forest management. Organised by the Faculty of Forestry, the programme featured 12 international lecturers, 10 Indonesian academics, and professionals from leading universities and environmental organisations.

The summer course combined academic lectures with cross-cultural engagement to deepen participants’ understanding of forest conservation, climate resilience, and sustainable resource management. Topics explored included tropical forest ecosystems, watershed management, biodiversity conservation, agroforestry, community-based forest management, and gender-inclusive approaches to environmental governance.

Speakers highlighted the critical role of healthy forests in maintaining water security, protecting biodiversity, and mitigating climate change. Discussions also examined how climate change is reshaping forest ecosystems, the importance of empowering local and Indigenous communities in conservation efforts, and the need for policies that balance environmental protection with social and economic development.

The programme emphasised interdisciplinary collaboration and international knowledge exchange, encouraging participants to develop practical and inclusive solutions to global forestry challenges. By connecting researchers, educators, and future forestry professionals from around the world, UGM continues to reinforce its commitment to advancing sustainable forest management and fostering global partnerships in environmental education and research.