Two Agroecotechnology Lecturers from University of Bengkulu Win Best Presenter Awards at ICIST 2025
Hangzhou, China — October 31, 2025 – Two lecturers from the Agroecotechnology Study Program, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Bengkulu (UNIB), have achieved international recognition after winning Best Presenter Awards at the 13th International Conference on Integration of Science and Technology for Sustainable Development (ICIST 2025).
The conference took place at the Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences (ZAAS), Hangzhou, P.R. China.
The award recipients were Dr. Hesti Pujiwati, S.P., M.Si., and Wuri Prameswari, S.P., M.Si., who delivered presentations in two different scientific sessions — Plant Biotechnology and Agricultural Development.
Excellence in International Scientific Sessions
Dr. Hesti Pujiwati presented her research in the Plant Biotechnology session, focusing on comparative studies of black soybean cultivation systems on Ultisol land. Her presentation received commendation from the international panel for its methodological rigor and contribution to sustainable crop management in marginal soils.
Meanwhile, Wuri Prameswari presented in the Agricultural Development session with a study on drought-stressed hot pepper responses to seaweed extract applications. Her work highlighted the potential of natural biostimulants in improving plant resilience and productivity under stress conditions.
Both lecturers’ achievements not only showcase their research excellence but also underline the University of Bengkulu’s growing reputation in international agricultural science.
Strengthening Research Collaboration and Global Visibility
The University of Bengkulu delegation to ICIST 2025 was led by Prof. Dr. Ir. Catur Herison, M.Sc., Head of the Agroecotechnology Study Program, along with senior professors and lecturers from the Faculty of Agriculture. Several faculty members also contributed as session chairs, co-chairs, and keynote speakers.
The conference, themed “Soil, Water and Environmental Conservation, Biological Diversity, Food Security/Safety, and Sustainable Agriculture,” brought together experts and researchers from more than ten countries across Asia, Africa, and Europe.
“These awards represent not only individual excellence but also our collective commitment to advancing agricultural innovation and sustainability on a global scale,” said Prof. Catur Herison.
Promoting Sustainable and Innovative Agriculture
The recognition of Dr. Hesti Pujiwati and Wuri Prameswari as Best Presenters reflects UNIB’s ongoing effort to strengthen academic excellence, research collaboration, and its contribution to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 13 (Climate Action).
