Giving a talk at University of Mataram
05 March 2020 | Mataram University, Lombok
Bette Willis
Good night and morning at Favehotel, getting ready to give a lecture to Pak Imam's students. Imam picked us up and gave us a bit of a tour of the University Campus, which is quite extensive. On arrival, we were greeted by a big banner advertising the talk strung over the entrance to the building, another one in the lecture theatre, and about 80 students/staff filling the lecture theatre. My 45 min talk ended up taking about 2 hours because Imam translated every slide after I gave each explanation. Surprisingly, the system worked well, and the students were amazing - attentive and interested through the whole 2 hours. Then, even more surprisingly, many wanted to ask questions, which went on for another 20 minutes or so until Imam drew the line on questions. Then everyone crowded round while copious photos were taken. It was a great opportunity to sheet home messages about what they can do to minimise single use plastics, given the links between plastics and coral disease. I really enjoyed the afternoon and from all feedback, it was a success.