Strengthening basic literacy is a strategic step in improving the quality of education. A team of lecturers from the Biology Education Program, Faculty of Teacher Training and Education (FKIP), University of Mataram conducted a community service activity titled “Introducing Microalgae Communities to Enhance Marine Literacy Among Students of SMAN 1 Sekotong – West Lombok.” This initiative reflects the team’s active contribution to fostering marine literacy among young generations, particularly high school students.
The community service team—consisting of Drs. Lalu Japa, M.Sc.St., Prof. Dr. Gito Hadiprayitno, S.Pd., M.Si., Dr. Didik Santoso, M.Sc., Dr. Drs. Karnan, M.Si., and Drs. H. Ahmad Raksun, M.Si.—carried out the activity on Thursday, June 19, 2025. The event was attended by both students and teachers of SMAN 1 Sekotong. The training aimed to enhance students’ literacy by introducing them to the basic concepts of microalgae as a vital component of marine ecosystems, highlighting their ecological roles and future economic potential.
The program included educational sessions on the types of microalgae, their ecological significance, and their potential uses in food, energy, and environmental sectors. This initiative significantly improved students’ understanding of marine biodiversity, especially microscopic organisms that play key roles in coastal ecosystems. In addition, it encouraged students to become more aware of their surrounding marine environment. By learning about microalgae’s role in the food chain and oxygen production, students were also guided to understand the impacts of pollution and the importance of marine ecosystem conservation.
The collaboration with SMAN 1 Sekotong proved highly impactful. It not only enhanced students’ and teachers’ knowledge, skills, and awareness, but also strengthened the school’s image as an open, adaptive institution that actively supports the advancement of science and knowledge. Through participation in research-based university outreach programs, the school demonstrated its commitment to being part of a progressive and collaborative educational ecosystem—supporting its vision to cultivate a generation that is intelligent, environmentally conscious, and prepared to face global challenges.