April 12, 2026
Banjarmasin — The Department of Social Sciences Education (JPIPS) at the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education (FKIP) of Lambung Mangkurat University (ULM) organized a “Field Trip for Sustainability: Rambai Mangrove Planting and Proboscis Monkey Conservation Study on Curiak Island on Sunday, April 12. This activity was attended by JPIPS students as part of the implementation of environment-based learning and the strengthening of ecological awareness. The activity itself aimed to provide students with hands-on experience in understanding environmental issues, particularly regarding the conservation of wetland ecosystems and the protection of Kalimantan’s endemic species, the proboscis monkey (Nasalis larvatus). Curiak Island was chosen as the location for the activity because it is a critical area for the conservation of the proboscis monkey’s natural habitat, which currently faces threats due to environmental degradation and land conversion.
The group of students was welcomed by Amalia Rezeki and the Sahabat Bekantan Indonesia team. In her remarks, Amalia Rezeki emphasized the importance of students’ role in environmental conservation. She noted that students hold a strategic position as agents of change who not only understand environmental issues theoretically but are also capable of directly engaging in conservation efforts that yield tangible results. Following the welcoming ceremony, the group of JPIPS faculty and students was invited to observe the life of the proboscis monkey firsthand and plant Rambai trees.
According to JPIPS Chairperson Mutiani, this event was organized in response to the growing global challenges related to climate change and environmental degradation. As educational institutions, universities have a responsibility to foster ecological awareness and encourage students’ active participation in environmental conservation efforts. This aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 13 on climate action, Goal 15 on life on land, and Goal 17 on partnerships for the goals. Additionally, this activity serves as a form of support for the UI GreenMetric program, which encourages universities to contribute to sustainable environmental management through education, research, and community service. Through this field trip, students not only gain conceptual understanding but also practical experience in environmental conservation, thereby fostering a sense of care and commitment to preserving nature for the future. (Admin)
