FVM Unud and James Cook University Follow Up on Collaboration through Cetacean Conservation Workshop

Denpasar — The Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Udayana University (FVM Unud), in collaboration with James Cook University (JCU), Australia, conducted the Pre-Survey Technical Workshop on Cetacean Conservation and Marine Biodiversity Monitoring on Monday, 7 September 2026, at the Meeting Room, 1st Floor, FVM Unud, Sudirman Campus, Denpasar. The workshop focused on the technical preparation for cetacean conservation surveys and marine biodiversity monitoring as part of the follow-up to the collaboration between FVM Unud and JCU.


In his opening remarks, Vice Dean for General Affairs and Finance of FVM Unud, drh. I Made Kardena, S.KH., MVS., Ph.D., expressed his appreciation to JCU and the partners supporting the activity. Marine conservation efforts, particularly the protection of cetaceans and marine megafauna, require collaboration among universities, research institutions, and conservation organizations.


The workshop discussed several approaches that can be used for marine wildlife monitoring, including distance sampling and drone photogrammetry. These approaches are expected to support systematic data collection as part of efforts to conserve and monitor marine biodiversity.


In addition to the technical aspects, this activity also serves as a platform to strengthen the knowledge of lecturers and students in the fields of aquatic veterinary medicine and marine science. Lecturers and students are encouraged to participate in a series of workshops and field sessions, share knowledge and experiences, build professional networks, and apply the knowledge gained to further develop their respective institutions.


The collaboration in this activity also involved several partners, including Konservasi Indonesia, Thrive Foundation, and Yayasan Cetasi (Cetacean Sirenian Indonesia). The involvement of these various stakeholders contributes to strengthening collaboration in marine biodiversity research, monitoring, and conservation.


This activity aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, through strengthening the knowledge of lecturers and students in the application of marine wildlife monitoring methods; SDG 14: Life Below Water, which focuses on the conservation of marine ecosystems and resources; and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, through strengthening partnerships in education, research, and conservation.


Through this activity, FVM Unud and JCU are expected to strengthen coordination in survey implementation and further develop collaboration in marine wildlife conservation. The activity also forms part of efforts to strengthen networks among universities, research institutions, and conservation organizations in support of sustainable marine ecosystem management.