Agromedicine – The Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Jember (FK UNEJ), once again held a national-level academic event through a guest lecture titled “Radioactivity and Radiotoxicology in Agroindustry” on Thursday, November 28, 2024, at the FK UNEJ Auditorium. The event featured an expert speaker, Dr. Eka Djatnika Nugraha from the Research Organization for Nuclear Energy, National Research and Innovation Agency of Indonesia (BRIN).
The event was attended by lecturers and students of FK UNEJ, who showed great enthusiasm in learning about the impacts and potential applications of radioactivity in the agroindustry sector, particularly in the context of health and environmental safety.
The event was officially opened by the Dean of FK UNEJ, Dr. dr. Ulfa Elfiah, who emphasized the importance of the topic in her opening remarks. “Radioactivity in agroindustry has significant implications for public health and the environment. This understanding is highly relevant, especially for FK UNEJ students, who are at the forefront of research and the implementation of agroindustry-based healthcare,” she stated.
In his presentation, Dr. Eka provided a comprehensive explanation of the concepts of radioactivity and radiotoxicology, along with their applications in the agroindustry sector. He elaborated on how nuclear-based technologies can enhance agricultural productivity while also highlighting the risks of radiation exposure to human health.
“Radioactivity in agroindustry can offer substantial benefits, such as the sterilization of agricultural products and the improvement of crop quality. However, it is crucial to understand radiotoxicological effects and how to safely manage radioactive waste,” Dr. Eka explained.
Dr. Eka also presented case studies from several countries that have successfully integrated nuclear technology into agroindustry. He emphasized that Indonesia has significant potential to develop similar technologies, while still prioritizing health and safety aspects.
The Q&A session, moderated by Dr. dr. Hairrudin, facilitated an engaging discussion between participants and the speaker. One student raised a question regarding the long-term effects of radiation exposure on agroindustry workers. Dr. Eka responded by highlighting the importance of occupational safety protocols and regular health monitoring.
The event received positive feedback from participants. dr. Dimas Santoso, one of the lecturers at FK UNEJ, stated that the material presented was highly relevant to FK UNEJ’s vision as an agromedicine center in Southeast Asia. “Dr. Eka’s presentation broadened our perspective on the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in addressing health challenges within the agroindustry sector,” he said.
The Dean of FK UNEJ expressed hope that this event would serve as a starting point for further collaboration between FK UNEJ and BRIN in relevant research areas. “We see great opportunities for joint research, particularly in developing health safety protocols for workers in the agroindustry sector,” Dr. Ulfa added.
This guest lecture is one of FK UNEJ’s flagship programs aimed at providing new insights to students and lecturers. By inviting experts in their respective fields, FK UNEJ remains committed to supporting the development of practical and relevant scientific knowledge that meets societal needs.
FK UNEJ plans to organize more similar activities in the future as part of its efforts to integrate education, research, and community service. Through collaboration with national research institutions such as BRIN, FK UNEJ is optimistic about contributing more significantly to innovation in agroindustry-based healthcare.
Author: AKR