YOGYAKARTA, May–June 2026 – Master’s students in Soil Science at the Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), conducted the 2026 Soil Excursion as part of their field practical coursework. Designed to provide a hands-on learning experience in nature, the program enabled students to perform field observations analyzing soil formation processes, geomorphology, and their relationships with geological and environmental conditions across Central Java and the Special Region of Yogyakarta.
The excursion took place in several stages from May through June 2026, covering key sites rich in landscape diversity and geological processes:
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May 23, 2026: Klangon Hill (Mount Merapi), Yogyakarta
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May 29–31, 2026: Dieng (Wonosobo), Pancuran Pitu (Banyumas), and the Karangsambung Geodiversity Area (Kebumen)
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June 6, 2026: Bayat (Klaten) and Bedoyo Hill (Gunungkidul)
During the field trips, students described soil profiles and outcrops, examined the distinct characteristics of each soil horizon, and collected soil samples across different layers. These samples were later analyzed in the laboratory to determine soil pH levels.
Every rock outcrop, soil profile, and landscape served as an interactive space for students to bridge theoretical concepts with real-world field conditions. Through this approach, students not only gathered scientific data but also cultivated a deeper awareness of environmental dynamics and land resource management.
This initiative directly supports several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
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SDG 4 (Quality Education): Enhancing student competence through experiential, field-based learning.
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SDG 2 (Zero Hunger): Building a deeper understanding of soil characteristics and fertility to support productive agricultural land management.
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SDG 13 (Climate Action): Studying soil formation and geomorphology to contribute to carbon cycle research and environmental dynamics.
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SDG 15 (Life on Land): Analyzing land resources to promote sustainable terrestrial ecosystem management and conservation.
Author: Rina Damayanti
Editor: Riska Ayu Purnamasari