The Student Nature Lovers Organization (UKM-PA) Barracuda of the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Syiah Kuala, successfully conducted its 9th Expedition and 14th Generation Mountaineering Training from June 20 to 22, 2025, at Gle Bae (Gunung Bae), Gampong Jantho Baru, Kecamatan Jantho, Aceh Besar. This initiative was carried out as part of the organization’s ongoing efforts to cultivate highly skilled, resilient, and responsible mountaineers, while reinforcing a strong commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable exploration.
The team comprised Maulidia as Supervisor, Rizqa Savira serving as Assistant Supervisor, and Cut Rezky Azaky acting as Tebaster. The navigation team included M. Khalid as the primary Navigator and Jihan Hanifah as CoNavigator, ensuring precise route planning throughout the journey. Both M. Khalid and Cut Rezky Azaky also contributed to data collection efforts, gathering critical information for future reference and research. Meanwhile, logistics were managed effectively by Jihan Hanifah and Marisa Aulia R.A., ensuring seamless availability of equipment and provisions. The trail was meticulously marked by Jejaker team members Aura Munika and Maulidar Rahmi, and the role of Swiper was adeptly performed by Nabil Mufadzal.
In addition to serving as an expedition for the 13th Generation and providing intensive training in navigation, trip planning, and mountaineering management for the 14th Generation, this activity also featured a plant inventory focusing on ferns (Pteridophyta) found within the area. This initiative offered participants valuable handson experience in botanical data collection and further strengthened their understanding of the ecological significance of mountain habitats.
The activity is closely aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDG 3: Good Health and WellBeing, by promoting active and safe engagement in nature; SDG 4: Quality Education, through practical application of navigation, teamwork, and fieldwork techniques; and SDG 15: Life on Land, by fostering a deep sense of responsibility for the protection and conservation of biodiversity and natural habitats.
Through this expedition and training, UKMPA Barracuda reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing the next generation of mountaineers and environmental advocates, ensuring that the lessons learned, skills gained, and data collected will contribute to a sustainable future for both its members and the natural spaces they explore.
