Bangkok, September 12, 2025 — Dr. Rizki Maftukhah, a lecturer from the Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, Faculty of Agricultural Technology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), delivered a guest lecture at Kasetsart University, Thailand. On this occasion, she presented a lecture titled “Tracing Soil Recovery: Using Stable Isotopes to Assess Drought Resistance and Nitrogen Fixation.” Dr. Rizki was accompanied by Qanita Haniyah Nuha, STP., a master’s student of Agricultural Engineering at UGM.
In her lecture, Dr. Rizki shared insights from her research on the restoration of degraded lands, including post-mining areas, to regain their productivity. She highlighted the critical role of stable isotope techniques, particularly carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) isotopes, in tracing soil health, assessing plant drought resistance, and estimating nitrogen fixation in legumes—three essential aspects for ensuring the success of land rehabilitation in post-mining landscapes. This research directly relates to SDG 15: Life on Land, which emphasizes the protection, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems.
The research findings she shared are expected to provide not only inspiration but also practical solutions to the challenges of land degradation in various regions, reinforcing the contribution of academia in addressing global sustainability issues.
Beyond being a platform for knowledge and experience exchange, this guest lecture also served as an opportunity to strengthen ties between academic communities of DTPB FTP UGM and the Faculty of Forestry, Kasetsart University. The event was attended by postgraduate students, lecturers, and researchers from the faculty, making it a rich forum for cross-disciplinary academic perspectives.
This activity not only strengthened international academic networking but also made a significant contribution to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through this international academic exchange, UGM actively supports SDG 4: Quality Education by sharing knowledge and research experiences. The research topic is also closely aligned with SDG 13: Climate Action, focusing on land adaptation and resilience to extreme climate impacts. Additionally, its emphasis on post-mining land restoration underscores the importance of sustainable resource management.
The research findings are expected to inspire and offer concrete solutions to land degradation challenges across regions, while also reinforcing the role of academia in addressing global sustainability issues.
