As a final project, each student presented on a topic of personal interest drawn from their studies throughout the semester: Community-Based Tourism, Seagrass & Seaweed, Mangrove Ecology & Management, Coral Ecology & Management, and Bahasa Indonesia.

This semester, Chris focused on Seagrass & Seaweed, Tobi explored Coral Ecology, and Marijke delved into Mangrove Ecology. Their presentations reflected both thoughtful insights and a solid grasp of their subjects a rewarding conclusion to a rich academic experience.

Group Presentations

Tobi introduced his favorite topic: Coral Ecology. Drawing from his field research at Mengiat Beach, he explained coral health indicators, such as color and the presence of bleaching. He emphasized the importance of coral reefs as biodiversity hotspots and highlighted the threat of rising sea temperatures that cause bleaching—a stress response leading to coral decline. His presentation offered a clear, science-based overview of the challenges coral ecosystems face and why their protection is critical.

Marijke followed with her presentation on Mangrove Ecology. She began by explaining what mangroves are—unique coastal trees and shrubs that thrive in saline, tidal zones. Noting that Indonesia hosts the world’s largest mangrove forests, she detailed species identification methods based on root structure, leaves, and flowers.

A key part of her talk focused on the ecological functions of mangroves: preventing erosion, providing marine nurseries, and serving as carbon sinks. Reflecting on the field excursion to a restoration site, she shared how the local community engages with mangroves not only for conservation but also for eco-tourism, education, and sustainable harvesting.

Chris concluded the session with his presentation on Seagrass and Seaweed. He introduced the various seagrass species found in coastal areas and highlighted Indonesia’s significant role in producing both seagrass and seaweed. Emphasizing their ecological role in maintaining water quality and biodiversity, he also discussed their value in carbon sequestration.

Sharing his field research from Sanur Beach, Chris examined how moorings might affect seagrass health, connecting scientific inquiry with practical environmental concerns. He closed by reinforcing the ecological and economic value of these often-overlooked marine resources.

In addition, Chris reflected on two other subjects—Community-Based Tourism and Bahasa Indonesia. He linked each field excursion to tourism models centered on cultural preservation, sustainability, and local empowerment. He also expressed deep appreciation for the language classes, crediting Bu Arpiwi, his Bahasa instructor, for making the learning process both effective and fun, and for helping him connect more deeply with Balinese culture.

After the successful presentations, the ceremony concluded on a warm and emotional note as everyone joined in singing “Kapan-Kapan”, a touching farewell song dedicated to our beloved students. The atmosphere was filled with joy and gratitude as we celebrated the end of the program together.

To close the event, everyone enjoyed slices of es teler cake and pizza, thoughtfully brought by students from the Master of Environmental Science program, creating a cheerful and memorable ending to a meaningful semester.

Looking Back and Ahead

As the semester program comes to a close, it's clear that the experience has been far more than just academic. Over the past four months, Chris, Tobi, and Marijke not only deepened their knowledge through immersive subjects, ranging from Coral and Mangrove Ecology to Seagrass & Seaweed, Community-Based Tourism, and Bahasa Indonesia, but also built lasting connections with peers, lecturers, Upskill team and the local environment. Their final presentations showcased both scientific insight and heartfelt reflection, a testament to how much they have grown personally and intellectually. The closing ceremony, filled with laughter, heartfelt speeches, shared songs, and delicious food, was a celebration of everything they’ve achieved. Though the program has ended, the friendships, memories, and knowledge they carry will continue to grow, wherever life takes them next.