Biology Department of IPB University Introduces Biophory and Stingless Bee to Situ Gunung Community

Lecturers and students (undergraduate, master, and doctoral degrees) from the Department of Biology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA), IPB University conducted a Field Study and Community Service in Gede Pangrango Village, Kadudampit, Situ Gunung, Sukabumi, West Java, early last July. In the activity, they taught residents to make Biophory Infiltration Holes (LRB) and to cultivate stingless bees. They also donated books for Early Childhood Education (PAUD) school in Gede Pangrango Village.

According to Dr. Nisa Rachmania, a microbiologist at the Biology Department and the team head of the Field Study, said that this activity was part of the department contribution to the community.

“This activity was special because it could be attended by several graduate students in the Biology Department. In addition to teaching LRB, we also shared how to cultivate stingless bees to volunteers and some residents at the Situ Gunung Tourism Information Center (TIC) office. The presentation about stingless bees was delivered by Dr. Rika Raffiudin, a bee expert from the Department of Biology,” she said.

Meanwhile, according to Juarma, Chair of the Babakan Kembar neighborhood association, this activity was very beneficial for the community. “We were excited to see the demonstration given and ready to make as many holes as possible,” he said. (**/Zul/zsp)