Bogor, 29 January 2026 – SEAMEO BIOTROP hosted an educational visit from students of Salman Alfarisi Interactive Elementary School, Cibinong, Bogor Regency, as part of an out-of-class science learning program. The visit was attended by 68 students accompanied by 4 teachers. The activity was designed to introduce students to science and environmental concepts through direct observation and hands-on field experiences.

The visit sought to foster students’ curiosity toward science, particularly in the field of tropical biology, while enhancing their understanding of biodiversity and sustainable agricultural technologies. Through contextual learning, students were encouraged to connect classroom lessons with real-world phenomena in their surrounding environment.

The program began with all participants gathering in the Matoa Room for an opening and briefing session. During this session, students were introduced to SEAMEO BIOTROP and informed about the series of learning activities scheduled throughout the visit.

Following the briefing, students explored several laboratory facilities and learning areas. Their first stop was the Aquatic Laboratory, where they were introduced to aquatic ecosystems and various organisms inhabiting them. The exploration continued at the Stingless Bee area, where students learned about stingless bees, their vital role in pollination, and the benefits of honey for humans.

The learning journey proceeded to the Hydroponics Laboratory, allowing students to observe soil-free plant cultivation techniques and modern agricultural innovations. They then visited the Aquaponics Laboratory, which integrates fish and plant cultivation within an environmentally friendly system. The visit concluded at the Mushroom Laboratory, where students gained insight into different types of fungi, their characteristics, and their roles in daily life and the environment.

Throughout the program, students demonstrated strong enthusiasm by actively asking questions and engaging with the instructors. The hands-on learning experience left a positive impression, as one student shared, “It was exciting and fun to learn new things. I learned about many topics here, from aquatic life and fungi to bees. Learning this way is much more interesting than just sitting in the classroom.”

Through this activity, SEAMEO BIOTROP hopes to continue contributing to early science education by providing an open and inspiring learning environment for young learners. Educational visits such as this are expected to strengthen scientific literacy and foster environmental awareness among elementary school students.

SEAMEO BIOTROP welcomes all interested stakeholders, including schools, educational institutions, researchers, and the general public, to learn and grow together through similar educational programs. For those interested in organizing an educational visit, please contact SEAMEO BIOTROP via email for further information and coordination.