Banda Aceh, June 4, 2025 – The Department of Physics, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA), Universitas Syiah Kuala (USK), held a scientific discussion with two visiting professors from the University of Zagreb, Croatia. The event aimed to broaden the academic horizons of lecturers and students in applied physics, geospatial technology, and disaster risk reduction from an international perspective.
The guest lecture was officially opened by Dr. Saumi Syahreza, Head of the Department of Physics, who warmly welcomed the visiting professors and introduced several faculty members in attendance. In his remarks, Dr. Saumi also presented the Research and Community Service Roadmap of the Physics Department, emphasizing the department’s commitment to advancing interdisciplinary research that aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The keynote presentation was delivered by Prof. Željko Bačić from the Faculty of Geodesy, University of Zagreb. He discussed the application of Earth Observation (EO) and the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) in disaster risk reduction, particularly in monitoring seismic activities. Prof. Bačić highlighted that permanent GNSS stations can record real-time ground motion during major earthquakes, providing crucial data for emergency response and recovery phases. He also underscored the role of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and the foundational contribution of physics to the development of data-driven spatial systems.
“Physics teaches us how to think,” he remarked, emphasizing how fundamental physical principles underpin innovation in geospatial science and disaster resilience.
The session also featured Prof. Vesna Poslončec-Petrić, Chair of Cartography at the Faculty of Geodesy. She presented on modern cartographic technologies, including the concept of crowdsensing, data collection by communities through mobile devices, which supports environmental mapping and air quality monitoring. Prof. Poslončec-Petrić also introduced advances in Augmented Reality (AR), highlighting its potential applications in education, urban planning, and disaster mitigation by integrating digital and physical environments interactively.
The discussion fostered an engaging exchange of ideas, enhancing understanding of how physics, geospatial technology, and digital innovation intersect to address global challenges. This initiative not only supports SDG 4 (Quality Education) through international academic exchange but also contributes to SDG 9 (Innovation and Infrastructure), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 13 (Climate Action) by promoting sustainable technological solutions for disaster resilience.
The event is expected to strengthen international networks and promote future research collaborations between the Department of Physics, FMIPA USK, and leading global institutions.