From October 25-27, 2024, the Department of Agricultural Socio-Economics at UGM’s Faculty of Agriculture held a Scientific Visit (KUIL SOSEK) to IPB University in Bogor. With the theme “Young Farmer Regeneration,” this event aimed to broaden students’ knowledge and network while addressing the critical role of youth in sustaining Indonesia’s agricultural sector. Student representatives from the 2022, 2023, and 2024 cohorts participated, accompanied by two faculty members, Ms. Asih Kusumaningsih, S.P., M.Sc., and Ms. Hariyani Dwi Anjani, S.P., M.Sc., who actively contributed to guiding and facilitating the discussions.
On the first day of the visit, students began with interactive discussions at IPB University’s Faculty of Economics and Management, involving students from both universities. These discussions focused on strategies for young farmer regeneration and the importance of innovation in modern agriculture. The role of the accompanying faculty members was crucial in this session. Ms. Asih Kusumaningsih and Ms. Hariyani Dwi Anjani provided insights and directed the students to explore practical solutions to address the challenges of regenerating farmers.
After the discussion sessions at IPB University, the students continued their visit to the Bogor Botanical Gardens. This excursion allowed them to learn more about the diversity of plant species and their potential for supporting sustainable agricultural innovation. The activities at the Botanical Gardens align with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) number 4, “Quality Education”; number 15, “Life on Land”; and number 17, “Partnerships for the Goals.” This inter-university discussion and environmental exploration enriched students’ understanding of agriculture’s contribution to ecosystem sustainability and enabled them to establish professional networks for future collaboration.
This Scientific Visit greatly benefited the students by fostering both academic knowledge and professional connections with their peers at IPB. The guidance provided by the faculty members was instrumental in motivating students to actively contribute to the regeneration of the agricultural sector, making this activity an invaluable experience that supports their personal development and prepares them to face future challenges in agriculture.
Author: Adhika Hafizh Prasada, S.P.
Admin of the Website for the Department of Agricultural Socio-Economics, Faculty of Agriculture, UGM