Unhas Geophysics Students Pay an Academic Visit to the BMKG
Makassar, 11 April 2025 – Students of the Bachelor’s Degree Programme in Geophysics, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA), Hasanuddin University, carried out an academic visit to the office of the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) Makassar. This activity is an important part of field-based learning aimed at strengthening students’ scientific insight and practical understanding in the field of geophysics.
The visit, conducted on 11 April 2025, aimed to provide students with direct experience regarding the strategic role and functions of BMKG as a government institution responsible for monitoring meteorological, climatological, and geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, tsunamis, and ground vibrations. The students had the opportunity to observe firsthand how BMKG operates as the frontline agency in observing, analysing, and managing disaster-related information across Indonesia.
During the visit, students received in-depth explanations from BMKG staff and experts regarding the national geophysical observation system, various advanced instruments used such as seismographs, accelerographs, and tsunami sensors, as well as real-time data collection and analysis processes. They were also introduced to the complete workflow, starting from monitoring at observation stations, data processing, to the dissemination of early warning information to the public and stakeholders.
This activity was not limited to theoretical learning. Students directly observed the application of geophysical science in real-world contexts, including how seismology concepts, tsunami modelling, geophysical data interpretation, and monitoring technologies are used for disaster mitigation, hazard mapping, and providing fast, accurate, and accessible geophysical information services to the public.
The students showed great enthusiasm throughout the activity. Many actively asked questions and engaged in discussions regarding the challenges faced by BMKG in monitoring Eastern Indonesia, a region that is geologically very active and highly prone to disasters. This visit broadened their understanding of the important role of geophysics in ensuring public safety, especially in areas such as Sulawesi, which frequently experiences tectonic activity.
The accompanying lecturer stated that such activities are highly strategic as they bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge in the classroom and professional practice in the field. Through this direct experience, students are expected to enhance their understanding of geophysical applications, improve their data analysis skills, and become more motivated to develop their academic and professional competencies.
This academic visit is also expected to strengthen collaboration between the Geophysics Study Programme at FMIPA Hasanuddin University and BMKG. Synergy between universities and government institutions plays a key role in producing competent young generations who are ready to contribute meaningfully to disaster risk reduction efforts in Indonesia.
With the implementation of this activity, the Geophysics Study Programme at Hasanuddin University continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing holistic education that is not only theoretical but also applied and relevant to the demands of the professional world and national disaster challenges. The students are increasingly aware that geophysics has a real and direct impact on everyday human life.