Bogor, February 13, 2026 – Participants of The 4th Summer Course on Indonesia’s Tropical Landscape, themed Cultural Landscape, conducted a Progress Report and Group Presentation session on the ninth day of the ten-day program. The activity was designed to evaluate students’ analytical and strategic thinking based on the field studies and cultural explorations conducted throughout the program.

Each group presented their work under the theme “Future Opportunities, Future Threats, and Strategic Ideas.” This task challenged students to move beyond analysis and comparison toward forward-looking and strategic perspectives. By examining potential opportunities and threats, participants were expected to formulate landscape strategies that contribute to a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable future.

The presentations were assessed by a panel of jurors consisting of Dr. Rosyi Damayanti, Ph.D., L. Arch., En. P. Christine E. Talidong, MENRM, and Assist. Prof. Jiang Xiaohuan, Ph.D. The jury provided academic feedback on the clarity of concepts, relevance of strategies, and the integration of cultural and environmental aspects in each proposal.

Following the academic session, participants visited the IPB University Museum to gain further insight into the university’s historical development, scientific contributions, and cultural collections. The visit enriched participants’ understanding of IPB University as an educational institution with strong roots in science, culture, and environmental studies.

In the evening, the program continued with the Closing Ceremony and Cultural Night. The event began with an opening report by Alinda, representing the organizing committee, who presented an overview of the program’s implementation and screened a documentary video summarizing activities from the first day until the final field visit.

The event was attended by invited guests, including Prof. Iskandar Zulkarnain Siregar from the Vice Rector for Global Connectivity, Collaboration, and Alumni, IPB University, and was officially delivered by Puji Mudiana, S.P., M.A., Director of International Education. The Head of the Department also delivered remarks highlighting the importance of international academic exchange and experiential learning. In his address, the Vice Rector emphasized that the summer course was not merely a study tour, but a comprehensive exploration of learning sites that integrated academic content with real-world cultural and environmental contexts.

The Cultural Night featured performances from participating countries. Students from the Philippines presented traditional dances, including Leron Leron Sinta, Bulaklak, and Panalangin, showcasing the richness of Filipino folk culture. The Japanese participants performed Soran Bushi, a traditional fishermen’s dance symbolizing strength and unity. The Indonesian participants presented a creative dance entitled “To Mangla”, representing cultural expression inspired by local traditions. A special performance by HIMASKAP included a series of traditional dances, including a segment inspired by Maumere dance movements.

The evening concluded with a joint singing session and group photo, marking the culmination of cultural exchange and friendship among participants. The Progress Report and Cultural Night became a reflection of both academic achievement and intercultural understanding achieved during the program.

These activities are part of the ten-day implementation of The 4th Summer Course on Indonesia’s Tropical Landscape, which aims to strengthen participants’ academic competence and cross-cultural awareness through integrated learning experiences in tropical landscape studies and cultural exploration.