Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Universitas Airlangga (FPK UNAIR) continues to strengthen practice-based learning through a series of field practicums involving sixth-semester Aquaculture students specializing in Marine Science and Technology. As part of the field program conducted on April 27, 2026, students carried out Marine Survey and Mapping as well as Marine Bioprospecting activities at Gatra Beach, South Malang. This activity was designed to provide students with direct scientific experience in understanding coastal environmental dynamics and exploring the potential of marine biological resources through research-based approaches.
The Marine Survey and Mapping practicum focused on collecting and analyzing seawater quality data using mapping and modeling approaches. During the activity, students conducted field measurements to identify water quality parameters and observe environmental conditions in the coastal area. The collected data were then analyzed to understand the distribution patterns of water quality and the environmental factors influencing these conditions. Through this process, students gained practical experience in applying marine survey techniques and interpreting environmental data scientifically.
Water quality assessment is considered an essential component in determining the health and sustainability of marine ecosystems. By engaging directly in field-based data collection and analysis, students were able to understand the complexity of coastal environmental dynamics more comprehensively. The activity also emphasized the importance of scientific data in supporting marine resource management and conservation planning. Through this learning experience, students not only strengthened their technical skills but also developed a deeper awareness of the relationship between environmental quality and ecosystem sustainability.
In addition to marine mapping activities, students also participated in the Marine Bioprospecting practicum, which focused on studying secondary metabolites from marine organisms, particularly macroalgae. The practicum aimed to identify the potential of bioactive compounds that could be utilized as raw materials for products such as antibiotics, antifungal agents, and antibacterial substances. This activity introduced students to the concept of marine biotechnology and highlighted the economic and scientific value of Indonesia’s marine biodiversity.
Throughout the practicum, students were actively involved in every stage of the process, from field sampling and preliminary laboratory observations to early-stage analysis. This hands-on approach provided valuable experience in conducting scientific research while encouraging students to think critically and innovatively about sustainable marine resource utilization. The activity also demonstrated how marine ecosystems can contribute not only to environmental sustainability but also to the development of health and biotechnology sectors through responsible exploration of marine natural products.
The main objective of this practicum was to improve students’ competencies in environmental data analysis, marine resource exploration, and research-based scientific approaches. In addition, the activity aimed to foster innovative thinking in utilizing marine resources sustainably and responsibly. Students benefited from enhanced technical skills, scientific analytical abilities, and broader perspectives regarding the ecological and economic potential of marine resources.
This practicum aligns with the implementation of several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) through experiential and research-based learning, SDG 14 (Life Below Water) through increased understanding of marine ecosystem sustainability, and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) through the exploration of marine bioresources for future innovation and biotechnology development.
Through activities such as this, FPK UNAIR continues to demonstrate its commitment to producing graduates who are academically competent, scientifically adaptive, and capable of contributing to sustainable marine and fisheries development. The integration of field-based learning and scientific exploration is expected to equip students with the knowledge and practical experience necessary to address future challenges in marine science and coastal resource management.
Writer: FBM
Editor: TPA
