Banda Aceh, January 27, 2025 – Universitas Syiah Kuala (USK) celebrates another remarkable achievement as two students from the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA), Khairunnas Ahmad from the Master of Chemistry program and Amirunnas from the Master of Biology program, have been selected for the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) Professional Fellows Program (PFP) 2025 in the field of Sustainability and the Environment.
Initiated by the U.S. government, YSEALI PFP is renowned for empowering young leaders across Southeast Asia and Timor-Leste to tackle global challenges. With a highly competitive selection process, this program is recognized as one of the most prestigious leadership exchange initiatives in the region. Khairunnas and Amirunnas’ selection is a testament to their outstanding contributions and potential.
Khairunnas Ahmad: Championing Water Conservation
Khairunnas Ahmad has built a solid track record in water resource conservation. As a delegate from Aceh at the 10th World Water Forum 2024 in Bali, he played a vital role in developing a comprehensive roadmap for water policies that balance human and environmental needs. “Water is the essence of life, and sustainable management is critical for future generations,” said Khairunnas.
In addition, Khairunnas participated in the UNITAR Leaders for Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) 2024 program, focusing on maritime and human security in the Asia-Pacific. As a representative of Aceh at the Local Conference of Youth (LCOY), he presented a pre-statement paper emphasizing clean water and sanitation, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
His academic contributions include scientific publications addressing critical environmental issues, such as:
- The use of metal oxide/chitosan composites to mitigate organic pollutants.
- Polymer-supported laccase immobilization for wastewater treatment.
- Investigations into heavy metal contamination in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems caused by anthropogenic activities in Indonesia.
Amirunnas: Advocate for Biodiversity Conservation
Amirunnas, a Master of Biology student, has significantly contributed to biodiversity conservation, focusing on preserving endemic species and threatened ecosystems in Aceh. His research and initiatives aim to promote sustainable biodiversity management while providing strategic insights for local conservation policies.
He has actively participated in national and international environmental forums and has served as a keynote speaker in biodiversity seminars. Through his advocacy and community engagement, Amirunnas raises public awareness about the critical importance of protecting ecosystems. “The environment is integral to our survival, and we must nurture it for the sake of future generations,” he emphasized.
Dean’s Statement
The Dean of FMIPA USK, Prof. Dr. Taufik Fuadi Abidin, S.Si, M.Tech, expressed his pride in the students’ achievements. “The selection of Khairunnas Ahmad and Amirunnas for the YSEALI Professional Fellows Program highlights the exceptional talents of FMIPA USK students to make a global impact. This is not just a proud moment for our faculty and university but also for Indonesia as a whole,” said Prof. Taufik.
He further added, “We will continue to support our students in achieving excellence and contributing positively to society. Their success serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of nurturing leadership and innovation among our youth.”
Focus of YSEALI PFP 2025
In this program, Khairunnas will undertake a professional fellowship focusing on water management in the maritime sector, while Amirunnas will deepen his expertise in biodiversity conservation. Key highlights of the program include:
- Learning Best Practices
Participants will explore sustainable approaches to environmental resource management in the United States. - International Collaboration
Fellows will collaborate with global leaders and experts to expand their professional networks. - Positive Community Impact
The program aims to empower participants to apply their knowledge and skills to benefit their local communities.
Inspiring the Next Generation
This achievement underscores the ability of Indonesian students, particularly from Aceh, to compete on the global stage. FMIPA USK hopes that the success of Khairunnas and Amirunnas will inspire other students to innovate and contribute to solving global challenges.
“We hope this news motivates more students to follow in their footsteps, drive change, and make the world a better place,” concluded Prof. Taufik.
FMIPA USK: Building a Sustainable Future Together!
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
