The Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at Universitas Gadjah Mada (FVM-UGM) successfully hosted the first Gadjah Mada Veterinary Medicine International Summer Course, centered on the theme “Guardians of Forest Wildlife: Advancing Global Perspectives in Wildlife Conservation, Health, and Welfare.” This international event took place on-site on July 12, 2026, in the Kaliurang area—specifically within Mount Merapi National Park. The program featured an integrated series of activities, including workshops and field trips that offered participants hands-on experience interacting with the long-tailed macaque (Macaca) populations inhabiting the national park. Additionally, participants explored issues regarding zoonoses and the potential transmission of diseases from wildlife to humans, fostering a holistic understanding of global health. Beyond ecological and animal health aspects, participants gained insights into the history and spatial planning of Mount Merapi National Park, thereby deepening their comprehensive understanding of landscape-based conservation.
Following field observations and direct interaction with the animals—all participants engaged in an in-depth discussion centered on the “One Health” concept. Utilizing a Small Group Discussion (SGD) format, participants broke into smaller teams to exchange ideas, share experiences from various countries, and formulate critical perspectives on wildlife conservation and welfare issues. The insights emerging from these group discussions were subsequently presented and further elaborated upon by the keynote speaker, Dr. Hery Wijayanto, DVM., M.P., to reinforce a shared commitment to maintaining ecosystem balance through a multidisciplinary approach. This activity represents a tangible step by FVM-UGM toward building a global network and cultivating a generation of professionals who are not only clinically competent but also sensitive to environmental and public health issues within a sustainability framework.
After that, participants enjoyed traditional Yogyakarta cuisine at Kopi Rolas, followed by a cultural tour of Prambanan Temple. These activities, on this first day, aimed not only to facilitate learning about wildlife but also to introduce the local culture of Indonesia towards the global audiences registered as Summer Course participants.
The first day of the Gadjah Mada Veterinary Medicine International Summer Course proceeded smoothly and interactively, marked by high participant enthusiasm and alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 13 Climate Action), SDG 15 (Life on Land), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).
