Wondering What to do With a Biology Degree? It is Profession that Should be Fought For
Careers in the biological sciences have not been fully recognized by the government, their status are very different with the medical scientists. But unlike other areas of study with well-defined career paths, biology's professional outcomes can sometimes be trickier to figure out. "Biologists learn how living things work, how they interact with one another, and how they evolve. Biologists in management and conservation careers are interested in solving environmental problems and conserving the natural world for future generations. Park rangers protect national parks, help preserve their natural resources, and educate the general public, are the forefront of these conservation efforts in Indonesia. Their work increases our understanding about the natural world in which we live and helps us address issues of personal wellbeing and worldwide concern, such as environmental degradation, threats to human health, and maintaining viable and abundant food supplies. However, the significance of the independence of the profession is often not fully understood. "said Chairman of the Consortium of Biology of Indonesia, Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono in the Rapat Koordinasi Nasional (Rakornas National Coordination Meeting) of Consortium of Biology Indonesia, organized at IPB International Convention Center (IICC) Bogor, on 4-5 May 2017. The event was participated by representatives of both undergraduate and graduate studies program on biology of universities throughout Indonesia.
Further, he stated that the Rakornas will propose the Indonesian Government to appreciate and recognize the biology profession. Biology is often thought to be one of the most popular areas of study. But according to one well-respected report, only few Indonesian students graduates majored in biology or the life sciences in the last few years. This is due the facts that their future professions are not recognized.
During which, the consortium discussed the challenge of pursuing careers with a biology degree. The biological science offers a few unique enrichment opportunities to foster student interest and achievement in the biological areas. Especially to understand living systems, to help preserve biodiversity and our environment, and to develop biological science that can be applied to the sphere of food, health, bio-energy, and the environment.
The University Secretary (SI) of Bogor Agricultural University (IPB), Dr. Ibn al-Qayim, stated that biology as a profession should be fought for. "IPB continues to support the development of biology fully," he said.
Yet, the Director General of Research and Community Service, Prof. Ocky Karna Rajasa, stated that biology practitioners have a moral responsibility towards the role of biology to carry out research activities and community service. Appreciating the important role that biology will play in this century, the Indonesian government is expanding as well as starting several new biological research institutes, which will open up many new positions for life science researchers. It will be the pillars in determining Indonesia's position in the còmpetitive world, namely the higher education and innovation. (Wied)
