Students and lecturers from the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, Universitas Airlangga (FPK UNAIR), once again demonstrated their global engagement by participating in the e-START Program 2026, an international academic exchange focusing on sustainable fisheries. This program was collaboratively organized by Hiroshima University, Japan, alongside partner institutions including Universitas Airlangga, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos (Peru), National Taiwan Ocean University, and Shizuoka University, Japan. Conducted online from March 4 to March 31, 2026, the program carried the theme “Sustainable Use of Marine Fishery Resources” and brought together 40 students from participating countries, guided by six lecturers and researchers with diverse expertise. The initiative reflects a growing commitment among global academic institutions to address pressing marine resource challenges through education, collaboration, and innovation.
From FPK UNAIR, nine undergraduate students actively participated under the academic supervision of a lecturer from the Department of Aquaculture. These students represented both the Aquaculture and Fisheries Product Technology study programs, showcasing the faculty’s diverse academic strengths. Throughout the program, participants engaged in a dynamic learning environment that went beyond conventional online lectures. Unlike typical virtual exchanges, e-START 2026 emphasized interactive and participatory approaches, encouraging students to engage in small-group discussions, collaborative problem-solving, and critical analysis of real-world case studies related to sustainable marine resource utilization. This approach enabled participants to develop interdisciplinary perspectives while strengthening their analytical and communication skills in an international setting.
One of the most distinctive features of the program was the inclusion of a practical training session on a research cruise simulation. Although conducted virtually, this session provided an immersive learning experience where participants were introduced to field research methodologies aboard a research vessel operated by Hiroshima University. Students learned about sampling techniques for sediment and seawater, including the application of environmental DNA (e-DNA) in fisheries research. This practical exposure offered valuable insights into how advanced technologies are applied in marine resource management and conservation. The experience bridged the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world research practices, enhancing students’ understanding of scientific approaches in sustainable fisheries.
Beyond academic enrichment, the program also served as a platform for international networking and cross-cultural exchange. Interaction with participants from various countries allowed students to gain broader perspectives on global fisheries management practices and environmental challenges. These interactions fostered mutual learning and cultural understanding, equipping students with the global mindset needed to address complex marine and fisheries issues. The opportunity to collaborate with peers from different academic and cultural backgrounds also strengthened students’ adaptability, teamwork, and communication skills—essential competencies in today’s interconnected world.
Participation in e-START 2026 aligns closely with FPK UNAIR’s commitment to supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The program contributes to SDG 14 (Life Below Water) by enhancing human resource capacity in sustainable marine resource management. It also supports SDG 4 (Quality Education) by providing access to high-quality international learning experiences, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through strong collaboration among global academic institutions. Through such initiatives, FPK UNAIR continues to position itself as a faculty that not only excels in academic and research excellence but also actively contributes to global sustainability efforts.
By participating in this international program, FPK UNAIR students gained valuable knowledge, practical skills, and global exposure that will support their future careers in marine and fisheries sectors. More importantly, the experience reinforces their role as future leaders who are prepared to contribute to the sustainable management of marine resources. FPK UNAIR hopes that continued participation in programs like e-START will inspire students to innovate, collaborate, and actively engage in solving global challenges in fisheries and marine sciences.
Writer : Farrel Bhanu Mahardhika
Editor : ALN and TPA
