The Faculty of Animal Science, Universitas Gadjah Mada (Animal Science UGM) officially launched its 56th Anniversary series on Friday (Oct. 3).
The opening event began with a morning walk and fun run, starting from the Animal Science UGM and passing through several areas within the UGM campus.
To mark the opening of the celebration, the Dean of Animal Science UGM, Professor Budi Guntoro, together with the faculty leadership and organizing committee, symbolically struck the gong and released 56 birds.
Professor Guntoro emphasized that the anniversary celebration and its series of activities should serve as a moment of reflection and projection for the entire Faculty of Animal Science community.
“We must learn from past shortcomings and develop better plans for the future,” he stated.
With the theme “Strengthening Human Resources through Functional Animal-Based Foods for Indonesia Emas 2045,” Professor Guntoro highlighted its strong relevance to current challenges.
He explained that education and nutrition are closely interlinked. Through research, innovation, community engagement, and the advancement of animal science, the faculty is dedicated to developing and introducing functional animal-based foods for the broader public.
Dr. Agussalim, Chair of the Anniversary Committee, shared similar views. He stated that the theme “Strengthening Human Resources through Functional Animal-Based Foods for Indonesia Emas 2045” underscores the sector’s strategic role in achieving Indonesia Emas 2045.
According to Dr. Agussalim, functional animal-based foods such as milk, eggs, meat, honey, and their derivatives are nutrient-rich sources proven to enhance physical health, immune strength, and cognitive function.
“Various studies also show that these foods contain essential bioactive compounds that can improve overall well-being,” he explained.
The opening ceremony of the 56th Anniversary was lively, attended by hundreds of lecturers, education staff, and students.
The event also served as a moment of gratitude for the faculty’s achievements, including the indexing of its academic journal in Scopus and the official recognition of Sapi Gama as a new breed of beef cattle.
Reporter: Animal Science UGM/Satria
Author: Agung Nugroho
Post-editor: Rajendra Arya
Photographer: Margiyono