Yogyakarta (14/03), 20 students of the Master of Environmental Management (MPL) Master Interest of the Graduate School of Gadjah Mada University carried out a Field Work Lecture (KKL) activity at Parangtritis Geomaritime Science Park. Prof. Dr.rer.nat. Muh Aris Marfai, S.Si, M.Sc, as the lecturer in charge of the Disaster-Based Environmental Management course became the coordinator of this activity.
The activity began with a presentation of material by Prof. Aris who provided an introduction in efforts to save the sand dunes and Parangtritis Geomaritime Science Park. Mr. Seto Baruno, as the Head of the Coastal and Sand Dune Geospatial Center also provided an understanding to students about the uniqueness of the sand dunes.
“The location of the Parangkusumo Sand Dunes is on an imaginary axis drawn from Mount Merapi – Parangkusumo Beach, the existence of these sand dunes is decreasing in area, therefore we must work together to maintain the sustainability of the Parangkusumo Sand Dunes,” said Seto.
The activity was continued with a discussion session and all students were actively involved. This discussion further enriched students’ insights in understanding the challenges and solutions in disaster risk-based environmental management.
Lisa Andini, one of the MPL students who participated in the KKL, said that the implementation of the Field Work Lecture (KKL) at Parangtritis Geomaritime Science Park was a very appropriate choice, especially to understand maritime geography, coastal dynamics, and environmental issues in coastal areas, especially on sand dunes. Students can learn directly about sedimentation and the current condition of the Parangkusumo sand dunes, which is very useful for MPL students.
Students, at the end of the activity, visited the museum to practice using sand traps as a method used to capture and deposit sediment (sand or mud) therefore it will not be carried by water currents or wind to unwanted locations. All students were very enthusiastic in participating in the series of activities to the end. Even though they were fasting, it did not hinder the enthusiasm of students in conducting field lectures.
Author: Siti Muyasaroh