The Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, Universitas Airlangga (FPK Unair), welcomed elementary school students from SD Islam Kreatif Mutiara Anak Sholeh Sidoarjo for an engaging educational visit aimed at introducing fisheries science and promoting fish consumption from an early age. The outreach program combined academic lectures, interactive discussions, a faculty tour, and educational games to enhance students’ understanding of aquatic resources and their importance for food security and community well-being.
The activity began at approximately 08.30 AM (Western Indonesian Time) with the arrival of students at Building B, Room 304, Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, Universitas Airlangga. The visit officially opened with welcoming remarks delivered by Annur Ahadi Abdillah, S.Pi., M.Si., Ph.D., Vice Dean III of the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences. In his address, he emphasized that fisheries represent vast and valuable natural resources that must be preserved and managed sustainably. He highlighted the strategic role of fisheries in strengthening food sovereignty and addressing societal challenges, particularly in nutrition and sustainable development. Through this early education initiative, FPK Unair seeks to broaden public understanding of fisheries science and increase awareness of the nutritional benefits of fishery products. The opening session concluded with a token of appreciation presented by FPK Unair to SD Islam Kreatif Mutiara Anak Sholeh Sidoarjo, followed by a group photo session.
The first lecture session was delivered by Dita Wisudyawati, S.Pi., M.Sc., a lecturer from the Department of Aquaculture, Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, Universitas Airlangga. She introduced students to the diversity of aquatic organisms, explaining the wide range of marine and freshwater species and their unique characteristics. The presentation covered basic knowledge about aquatic habitats, species diversity, and the ecological importance of aquatic biota. Both students and teachers showed great enthusiasm throughout the session, as many participants were introduced to species and habitats previously unfamiliar to them. The interactive discussion encouraged curiosity and fostered a deeper appreciation for aquatic ecosystems and biodiversity, aligning with FPK Unair’s commitment to academic outreach and environmental literacy.
The second lecture was delivered by Terry Previo Avianto, S.Pi., M.Si., a lecturer from the Department of Marine Science. He emphasized the importance of developing a habit of eating fish, particularly for children in their early developmental stages. He explained that fish is one of the most protein-rich food commodities compared to other sources, making it highly beneficial for growth, cognitive development, and immune system enhancement. The session also introduced various fish-based products commonly found in Indonesian communities, such as pempek, fish nuggets, fish balls, and other processed seafood products. During the question-and-answer session, a student raised concerns about fish bones. The speaker responded by explaining that modern fishery products such as deboned milkfish and fish fillets have minimized the risk of bones, making fish easier and safer to consume. This practical explanation reinforced the accessibility and convenience of fish as a nutritious food source.
Following the educational sessions, students participated in a faculty tour and interactive games designed to reinforce learning in a fun and engaging manner. Two main games were conducted: an eel transfer challenge and a quiz competition. These activities encouraged teamwork, critical thinking, and hands-on experience related to aquatic organisms. The high level of enthusiasm demonstrated by the students reflected the effectiveness of experiential learning methods applied during the program. Overall, the outreach activity is expected to contribute positively to students’ knowledge and awareness of fisheries science, while strengthening collaboration between FPK Unair and educational institutions as part of its academic and community service mission.
