Hasanuddin University (Unhas) has established concrete policies and programs to mitigate the impacts of invasive alien species (IAS) within its campus areas and affiliated regions. Through Rector’s Regulation No. 41/UN4.1/2023 on the Guidelines for the Management of Educational Forests as Special Purpose Forest Areas, Unhas explicitly regulates efforts for the prevention, control, and protection of ecosystems against invasive alien species (Article 8, point e). This policy emphasizes that all activities within the educational forest area must consider risk analysis and mitigation measures related to invasive species.

In addition, Rector’s Regulation No. 11/UN4.1/2022 on the Guidelines for Guidelines for Spatial Planning and Building Utilization on Campus and Building Planning and Utilization integrates the principles of a green campus and ecological balance into campus development planning, thereby reducing the potential spread of alien species through construction and landscape activities. All of these policies remain in effect and are actively implemented to date, reflecting UNHAS’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and biodiversity protection.

These policies are implemented through various activities in 2024, including the control of the invasive water hyacinth species and student initiatives to manage invasive bamboo species through the Re-Corrosion Heroes09 Student Creativity Program (PKM). Furthermore, Unhas also focuses on the control and utilization of armored catfish (Pterygoplichthys sp.), one of the invasive species found in South Sulawesi waters. Through Thematic Community Service Programs (KKN Tematik) and Vocational Programs, Unhas students have innovatively transformed the armored catfish into high-value alternative feed and eco-friendly organic fertilizer.

Moreover, in collaboration with the Soppeng Regional Government, the management program for the armored catfish has been integrated with maggot cultivation as a natural feed source, creating a circular economy model that simultaneously controls the invasive species. The synergy between formal policies and field implementation demonstrates that Hasanuddin University not only establishes written regulations but also applies them concretely through education, research, and community service programs.