The PALAPA Student Activity Unit (UKM) team from the FMIPA UNEJ won the “Best Flora” award at the Exploration Camp Competition (ECC) 2026. Held at Meru Betiri National Park from August 1 to 5, 2026, the ECC 2026 was part of the National Nature Conservation Day (HKAN) series of events. This year’s competition adopted the theme “Nature Conservation: Collaborative Efforts to Care for Indonesia’s Nature.” The event drew 44 participants from various regions across Indonesia as well as international participants. This achievement demonstrates the capabilities of FMIPA UNEJ students in the field of biodiversity exploration while reinforcing the university’s commitment to supporting environmental conservation.

ECC 2026 comprised a series of field exploration activities, including tasks that tested participants’ abilities to identify, document, and analyze the flora within the Meru Betiri National Park conservation area. Combining academic knowledge with field experience, the UKM PALAPA team demonstrated precision, teamwork, and scientific proficiency, ultimately earning the title of best team in the flora category. The event was divided into three stages covering a total distance of 26 km, stretching from Bande Alit Beach to Camp Sukamade.

Dwi Indahning Rohmah, M.Sc., the advisor for the student organization PALAPA, stated that this award is the result of the hard work put in by all members throughout the stages of preparation and the competition itself. “This event provides an invaluable experience for students particularly those in PALAPA to learn firsthand in a conservation area and apply the knowledge gained during their coursework,” she said. The “Best Flora” award serves as motivation for PALAPA to continue contributing to conservation efforts and research on Indonesia’s biodiversity.

Prof. Dra. Hari Sulistiyowati, M.Sc., Ph.D., Vice Dean I of teh FMIPA UNEJ  who is also an environmental conservation advocate commended the achievements of students from the UKM PALAPA student organization for bringing honor to the faculty at both national and international levels. She noted that these accomplishments reflect the caliber of FMIPA UNEJ students, who excel not only academically but also demonstrate a commitment to environmental conservation. Through this success, FMIPA UNEJ hopes to encourage more students to actively participate in scientific activities, conservation efforts, and the development of Indonesia’s natural resource potential.