On the 11th day of the SUNTROPiS program, participants set off for Bukit Bangkirai. The day started with an early morning hike through the forest, leading to the canopy bridge to witness a breathtaking sunrise. This peaceful moment allowed everyone to enjoy the natural beauty of East Kalimantan.
Following the sunrise experience, the agenda continued with a tree-planting activity. This hands-on experience not only highlighted the importance of reforestation but also fostered a sense of responsibility towards environmental conservation among the participants. After the planting activity, the students enjoyed a snack time, recharging for the adventurous activities ahead.
The excitement of the day peaked with an outbound session, featuring a series of engaging and thrilling games. Participants challenged themselves with activities such as climbing wooden structures and stepping from one block to another, reminiscent of a step-on-the-block game. The highlight of the outbound session was undoubtedly the flying fox, which provided an adrenaline-pumping experience as participants soared above the forest canopy. These activities offered an exhilarating way to explore the natural beauty of Bukit Bangkirai.
After a morning filled with adventure, the participants returned to their cottages for a well-deserved lunch, where they savored delicious crab dishes, showcasing the local culinary delights. The afternoon was dedicated to preparing for a trip to Mentawir, where new experiences and learning opportunities awaited.
Trip to Mentawir was designed as an integral part of the summer school program, offering the participants of International Summer School Mulawarman University a hands-on learning experience. The activity began with a concise presentation on Site Plan Layout delivered by Mr. Saifurudiin. This introductory session provided the participants with a foundational understanding of Mentawir’s spatial layout, preparing them for their exploration.
Following the presentation, the participants of International Summer School Mulawarman University were divided into their groups and guided on a tour of Mentawir. Each group was accompanied by a knowledgeable tour guide who provided in-depth explanations of the various points of interest within the area. From the diverse plant species to the region’s history and development potential, the tour offered a comprehensive overview of Mentawir.
The participants had the invaluable opportunity to participate in a tree planting activity at the nursery. With great enthusiasm, they assisted in planting various types of seedlings that would be used to green the Nusantara Capital City area. This activity not only provided a firsthand experience in environmental conservation efforts but also fostered camaraderie among the participants. Before commencing the planting, the participants were given a brief explanation of the significance of each seedling type and its role in the ecosystem. Utilizing the provided tools, they collaborated in groups to plant the seedlings in the prepared planting holes.
To add an element of fun and engagement, a quiz with prizes was organized. Questions revolved around the Latin names of plants and the abbreviations for Mother Plants. This interactive activity not only tested the participants’ knowledge but also fostered a competitive spirit among the groups.
At the end of the day, the participants of International Summer School Mulawarman University returned to Samarinda, carrying with them a wealth of new experiences and insights. This field trip is expected to contribute significantly to the participants’ understanding of environmental conservation and sustainable development.
Rapporteur: Deswita Istiyanti & Rizka Rahmadina
