The Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Gadjah Mada (Faperta UGM), together with the World Vegetable Center (WorldVeg), concluded the Advanced Training in Plant Health: From Field Surveillance to Molecular Technologies with a cocktail dinner on Friday, June 26, 2026, at the Harjono Danoesastro Auditorium, UGM. The closing event fostered a warm atmosphere of togetherness, enriched by cultural nuances as participants wore traditional attire from their respective regions.
The evening opened with a performance of the Tari Pendet dance by Prof. Ani Widiastuti and Ni Made Saveita Rajman, S.P., M.Sc., symbolizing cross-cultural unity. Traditional culinary delights added depth to the experience, including the Keraton Yogyakarta specialty Sangga Buana (Songgo Buwono), known for its philosophical meaning.
In her remarks, Dr. Lourena Maxwell (WorldVeg) expressed appreciation for the collaboration throughout the training. She candidly acknowledged her firm leadership style but emphasized gratitude to the team for their support since day one, as well as to Prof. Ani Widiastuti and the UGM team for their warm welcome and facilities. Meanwhile, Prof. Ani Widiastuti (UGM) conveyed hopes for continued collaboration with WorldVeg, extending appreciation to student teams, the AGLC team, and the media unit for their contributions to the program’s success. She noted that the official closing would continue with a field activity, while wishing participants lasting memories of the training.
The atmosphere grew livelier with spontaneous performances from international participants showcasing songs and cultural traditions from their home countries. The evening culminated in a spirited flash mob dance, reflecting the camaraderie and international friendship built during the training.
This cocktail dinner not only marked a memorable conclusion but also reinforced UGM Faculty of Agriculture’s commitment to SDG 4: Quality Education through strengthening academic networks and international knowledge exchange, SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities by fostering inclusive collaboration and interaction among participants from diverse countries and cultural backgrounds, SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities through preservation and promotion of Indonesian culture as part of cross-cultural understanding, SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals via close collaboration between UGM Faculty of Agriculture and the World Vegetable Center in strengthening international cooperation in plant health and capacity development.
Author: Beny Nabila Happy Fauziah
Editor: Tantriani
Documentation: Media Unit of Faperta UGM