Bogor, Indonesia, 26 May 2026 — SEAMEO BIOTROP organized a farewell ceremony for participants of the Kemnaker Internship Program and Capstone Internship Batch 1, marking the completion of their internship period at the Centre. Over the past four to six months, the participants have actively contributed to various activities and programs within SEAMEO BIOTROP, including research, laboratory activities, administration, program development, and institutional communication. The event, held at Ruang Jati SEAMEO BIOTROP, was attended by the Director, Deputy Directors, managers, affiliate scientists, supervisors, mentors, and 33 internship participants from both programs.

Director of SEAMEO BIOTROP Dr. Edi Santosa delivered remarks expressing appreciation for the participants’ contributions and active involvement throughout the internship program. He noted that internship experiences often become valuable and memorable milestones in one’s professional journey. Reflecting on his own internship experiences, Dr. Santosa encouraged participants to carry forward the values, experiences, and lessons gained during their time at SEAMEO BIOTROP as preparation for their future academic and professional careers. Following his remarks, the farewell ceremony was officially opened.

Deputy Director for Administration Dr. Elis Rosdiawati also expressed gratitude for the successful implementation of both the Kemnaker and Capstone internship programs. She conveyed appreciation to the organizing committee, mentors, and participants who contributed to the learning process and competency development within the SEAMEO BIOTROP working environment. Dr. Rosdiawati highlighted the adaptability of the participants, noting their ability to work and collaborate effectively throughout the program. According to her, the internship experience is expected to strengthen participants’ technical competencies, mental preparedness, sense of responsibility, and teamwork skills before entering their future professional careers. “Do not be afraid of new experiences, never hesitate to face challenges, and always be ready to grow,” she remarked.

Representing the Board of Directors, Deputy Director for Program Dr. Doni Yusri symbolically presented certificates to the internship participants and emphasized the importance of maintaining professional relationships and expanding networks beyond the internship period. He also appreciated the learning process and personal development demonstrated by the participants during their time at SEAMEO BIOTROP.

Meanwhile, Human Resource Manager Ms. Tenni Wahyuni expressed appreciation for the enthusiasm, dedication, and competency development demonstrated by participants of the six-month Kemnaker Internship Program and the four-month Capstone Internship Program. She acknowledged the significant improvement in participants’ capabilities, work performance, and innovation throughout the internship period. In addition to expressing gratitude for the participants’ contributions, she also extended her apologies for any inconveniences that may have occurred during the internship process.

Through this farewell event, SEAMEO BIOTROP reaffirmed its commitment to supporting youth capacity development through experiential learning programs based on practical experience, collaboration, and professional competency strengthening. The completion of the internship program is expected to become a new beginning for the participants as they continue their academic and professional journeys, carrying forward the experiences, values, and lessons gained during their time at SEAMEO BIOTROP. (MDM)