Surabaya – The comet fish scooping competition became one of the family-friendly highlights of the 18th Anniversary celebration of the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine (FPK) Universitas Airlangga on Sunday (26/7/2026). Designed especially for children, the event allowed parents to accompany their children while watching the competition firsthand. The participation of families from various backgrounds created a lively atmosphere and reflected FPK UNAIR’s commitment to organizing inclusive activities that welcome both the academic community and the public.
The organizing committee prepared several pools filled with comet fish as the competition arena. Using small hand nets, participants competed to catch as many fish as possible within the allotted time. The simple yet engaging concept received positive responses from attending families, providing children with a safe, enjoyable, and memorable opportunity to interact directly with fish.
Strengthening Family Bonds Through Interactive Activities
For many families, the comet fish scooping competition offered a unique experience rarely found at university events. Throughout the competition, parents remained by the side of the arena, encouraging their children, offering guidance, and capturing memorable moments as participants enthusiastically tried to catch the colorful fish.
This warm atmosphere of togetherness became one of the event’s main attractions. Many children celebrated excitedly after successfully catching fish, while parents shared in their joy by witnessing their children’s enthusiasm. These simple yet meaningful interactions created lasting memories and strengthened the bond between parents and their children.
Ridwan, one of the participating parents, appreciated the inclusion of children’s activities in the FPK UNAIR anniversary celebration. According to him, the competition provided an enjoyable recreational activity while fostering stronger interactions between parents and children.
“Activities like this are wonderful because children have the opportunity to experience something new beyond their everyday routines,” he said.
Introducing Fisheries Through Fun Learning Experiences
In addition to being an entertaining competition, the comet fish scooping event also provided participants with an educational experience. Through this activity, children not only enjoyed the excitement of the competition but also gained a better understanding of fish and aquatic environments in an engaging and enjoyable way. This approach serves as an effective introduction to the world of fisheries for young children without losing the recreational aspect of the event.
The comet fish scooping competition was one of several activities featured during the peak celebration of FPK UNAIR’s 18th Anniversary, alongside the fun walk, catfish fishing competition, and cooking demonstration. By offering activities for participants of all ages, FPK UNAIR sought to transform its anniversary celebration into an open and welcoming gathering for both the university community and the public.
Through the active involvement of families in various activities, FPK UNAIR hopes to strengthen the relationship between the university and the wider community. The anniversary celebration serves not only as a milestone commemorating the faculty’s achievements but also as an opportunity to foster togetherness through educational, inclusive, and enjoyable activities. The enthusiastic participation of children and families demonstrated that the university can provide a space for learning, recreation, and meaningful shared experiences.
Writer : Farrel Bhanu Mahardhika
Editor : TPA
