The Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, Universitas Airlangga (FPK Unair), welcomed students from SD Islam Kreatif Mutiara Anak Sholeh Sidoarjo for an educational visit aimed at introducing fisheries and marine science from an early age. The activity reflects FPK Unair’s commitment to community engagement and strengthening food sovereignty through fisheries education.
The activity began at approximately 08.30 AM (WIB) with the arrival of students from SD Islam Kreatif Mutiara Anak Sholeh Sidoarjo at the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, Universitas Airlangga. The participants were directed to Classroom 304, Building B, where the event officially commenced. The opening remarks were delivered by Annur Ahadi Abdillah, S.Pi., M.Si., Ph.D., Vice Dean III of the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences. In his speech, he emphasized that fisheries represent a vast and strategic natural resource that must be sustainably managed and preserved. He highlighted the important role of fisheries in supporting national food sovereignty and addressing various societal challenges, including nutrition and sustainable resource management. Through this outreach program, FPK Unair aims to introduce fisheries education at an early stage, enabling the broader community to better understand the scope of fisheries science and the benefits of fishery products for society. The welcoming session concluded with the presentation of a commemorative token from 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, FPK Unair. She introduced students to the diversity of aquatic organisms and explained that aquatic biota encompass a wide range of species inhabiting freshwater, brackish, and marine ecosystems. She elaborated on the unique characteristics of marine life, including their habitats, adaptive features, and ecological roles. The session was met with great enthusiasm from both students and teachers, as many participants were newly exposed to the vast diversity of fish species and aquatic habitats. The interactive explanation encouraged curiosity and active participation, demonstrating the importance of science communication in fostering early interest in marine and fisheries studies.
The second session was presented by Terry Previo Avianto, S.Pi., M.Si., a lecturer from the Department of Marine Science. He emphasized the importance of cultivating a habit of consuming fish from an early age. Fish, he explained, is one of the most protein-rich food commodities compared to other food sources, making it essential for supporting growth and development in children. He also introduced various fish-based products commonly found in Indonesian society, such as pempek, fish nuggets, and fish balls. The high nutritional value of fish is expected not only to enhance children’s cognitive development but also to strengthen their immune systems. During the discussion session, one student asked about the concern of fish bones. The speaker explained that modern fishery products have addressed this issue, including deboned milkfish and fish fillets, which are processed to remove bones and make them safer and easier to consume.
Following the educational sessions, the event continued with a faculty tour and interactive games. The students participated in two main activities: an eel transfer game and a quiz competition. Both activities were designed to reinforce the learning material in a fun and engaging manner while introducing students to the academic environment of FPK Unair. The participants showed remarkable enthusiasm throughout the activities. This community engagement initiative is expected to broaden students’ knowledge and awareness of fisheries and marine sciences while strengthening the relationship between FPK Unair and the community, particularly in promoting sustainable fisheries and nutrition education.
