The Department of Agricultural Socio-Economics, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), continues to demonstrate its commitment to addressing global challenges related to environmental sustainability and food security. On October 17, 2024, the department proudly hosted the second International Conference on Sustainable Agricultural Socioeconomics, Agribusiness, and Rural Development (ICSASARD), contributing to the search for solutions to critical issues in agriculture and rural development.
With the theme “Transforming Towards Sustainable Agriculture, Food Systems, and Rural Development,” ICSASARD 2024 aimed to serve as a platform for discussions among academics, practitioners, and researchers from various countries. Held in a hybrid format at The Alana Yogyakarta Hotel & Convention Center, the event attracted participants from Indonesia, Ecuador, Hungary, the Philippines, Australia, and Japan.
As the organizer, the Department of Agricultural Socio-Economics UGM played an active role in shaping the topics and discussions, focusing on the development of more sustainable agricultural systems. In his opening remarks, the Head of the Department emphasized the importance of cross-disciplinary and international collaboration to address the pressing issues of food security and rural development.
The conference featured distinguished speakers from around the globe. Keynote speaker Prof. Tsuyoshi Sumita from Tohoku University, Japan, highlighted the need for innovation in sustainable agricultural systems. Additionally, four invited speakers, including Prof. Dr. Ir. Irham, M.Sc. from UGM, shared their insights on inclusive agribusiness and rural development.
The discussions throughout the day addressed how sustainable agricultural practices can tackle environmental challenges such as climate change, land degradation, and biodiversity loss. With the support of the Department of Agricultural Socio-Economics UGM, ICSASARD provided a space for academics, researchers, and practitioners to exchange ideas and innovations, fostering synergies that are expected to lead to significant changes in the agricultural sector.
In addition to organizing the conference, the Department of Agricultural Socio-Economics UGM played a key role in steering the discussions toward issues relevant to Indonesia, including redesigning food systems to be fairer and more efficient. The parallel discussion sessions in the afternoon, led by experts from the department, delved into specific topics such as agribusiness management, rural development, and environmentally friendly technological innovations.
Contributing to the SDGs: Through ICSASARD 2024, the Department of Agricultural Socio-Economics UGM directly contributed to several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
SDG 2: Zero Hunger – UGM advocated for the adoption of sustainable agricultural systems to address food security challenges.
SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – The department played a vital role in guiding discussions on responsible food production that minimizes environmental impact.
SDG 15: Life on Land – By focusing on sustainability, UGM promoted the preservation of terrestrial ecosystems and practices that protect biodiversity.
The Department of Agricultural Socio-Economics UGM hopes that through ICSASARD 2024, the solutions and innovations presented will drive the transformation of the agricultural sector in Indonesia and beyond, creating a significant impact in supporting rural development and global food security.
Author: Adhika Hafizh Prasada, S.P.
Admin of the Website for the Department of Agricultural Socio-Economics, Faculty of Agriculture, UGM