The 15th National Science Seminar was successfully held online via Zoom on Saturday, May 24, 2025. This event was a collaborative effort between the Science Education Study Program and the Environmental Science Study Program of Universitas Negeri Semarang (UNNES), in partnership with the Indonesian Science Educators Association (PPII). With the theme “The Role of Environmental Science for Excellence in Science Education Towards a Golden Indonesia,” the seminar served as a strategic platform to strengthen the synergy between science education and environmental science in preparing for Indonesia Emas 2045.
The seminar was officially opened by the Dean of the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA) UNNES, Prof. Dr. Edy Cahyono, M.Si., followed by a welcoming speech from the Chair of PPII, Prof. Parmin, M.Pd. and the Chair of the Committee, Rizki Nor Amelia, M.Pd. The event attracted significant attention with 465 registered participants, consisting of 155 paper presenters and 310 non-presenting participants. Attendees came from diverse professional backgrounds, including students, teachers, lecturers, and education practitioners from 13 provinces across Indonesia spanning Sumatra, Java, Kalimantan, and Sulawesi, demonstrating strong enthusiasm for sustainability and education-driven environmental action.
Three distinguished speakers contributed insightful presentations. Prof. Dr. Sarwanto, M.Si. from Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) opened his session by highlighting pressing global issues such as climate change and population dynamics. He then elaborated on the SETS (Science, Environment, Technology, Society) approach as an integrative framework for science education. This approach emphasizes the interconnectedness of scientific knowledge, technological advancement, societal needs, and environmental challenges in responding to global issues holistically.
Nathan Setyawan, M.Eng. from the Central Java Regional Development Planning Agency (Bappeda), delivered a session on “The Problem-Solving Role of Science Education in Addressing Environmental Issues and the Impacts of Climate Change in Central Java.” He emphasized the importance of collaboration between academia particularly science education and environmental science lecturers and students—and local government in crafting actionable solutions. Nathan proposed several collaborative initiatives such as Thematic Spatial Environmental Parenting, Sustainable Community Development Projects, and the Local Adiwiyata Schools Sisterhood, aimed at fostering environmental awareness and action through mentoring programs for elementary to high schools.
Fidia Fibriana, Ph.D. from UNNES, presented on the role of biotechnology in science education and environmental management. She stressed the importance of grounding scientific knowledge in real-world contexts to ensure its relevance and impact on society. By promoting contextual and practical approaches, she encouraged educators to bring science closer to everyday life as part of broader efforts to improve environmental literacy and resilience within communities.
With the participation of expert speakers and hundreds of enthusiastic attendees, the 15th National Science Seminar served not only as an academic forum but also as a strategic momentum for strengthening collaboration among stakeholders in education and environmental fields. The event is expected to foster innovation in science education that is responsive to environmental issues and capable of cultivating a generation that is environmentally literate, resilient, and ready to lead Indonesia toward a sustainable and climate-resilient future.
