The Biology Study Program, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Yogyakarta State University (FMIPA UNY), held a guest lecture featuring Harry Rust, an Indo-Pacific bat expert, on Wednesday, October 21, 2026. This activity, part of the Mammalogy course, was attended by undergraduate Biology students as well as master's students in Biology Education participating as sit-in attendees.

Harry Rust, who is affiliated with the Australian Bat Society, Pacific Bat Conservation (PacBat), and the University of Melbourne, presented on the diversity, ecology, and current issues surrounding bats in the Indo-Pacific region. Drawing from his research background, his presentation offered students valuable perspectives on bat ecology and the region's conservation challenges.

The guest lecture linked core Mammalogy concepts directly to field research contexts. Key topics included bat biodiversity, ecological dynamics, and emerging research and conservation trends. Having an international speaker provided students with an opportunity to broaden their regional perspectives on bat studies.

Dr. Tatag Bagus Putra Prakarsa, the lecturer in charge of the Mammalogy course, arranged the event to enrich student learning through international research perspectives. The joint participation of undergraduate and graduate students fostered cross-level discussion on the intersections of biodiversity, ecology, and conservation.

This guest lecture serves as an implementation of the collaboration between FMIPA UNY and the Indonesian Bat Conservation Research Union (InaBCRU). The initiative reflects a shared commitment to advancing education and introducing students to the latest developments in bat research and conservation.

Through this event, the Biology Study Program at FMIPA UNY aims to inspire student interest in mammalian research—specifically bats—while emphasizing the critical importance of biodiversity conservation. Ongoing collaboration with InaBCRU and international research networks is expected to continue creating valuable educational and research opportunities across UNY.