Every year, students of the Master of Agribusiness Management (MMA) Study Program at Gadjah Mada University (UGM) undertake a scientific journey known as Widyakarya. This event is a mandatory activity to fulfill the curriculum and a valuable opportunity for students to broaden their horizons about agribusiness management practices in various parts of the world. This year, the activity was carried out from 25 to 29 February 2024, with Thailand as the destination country, a country rich in culture, natural wealth, and innovation in the agricultural sector.
Widyakarya began with a visit to the Big Bee Garden, an educational tourist destination that offers in-depth insight into bee cultivation and pure honey production. Here, students gain new knowledge about the vital role of bees in the ecosystem and purchase high-quality honey products without added sugar. This experience provides a deeper understanding of the potential of the bee industry and its products in the context of agribusiness management.
Next, students visited YARA International, a leading company that produces and distributes high-tech fertilizers. Here, they had the chance to visit three exciting locations: distributor partners, farm partners, and bagging factories. Through this visit, students saw firsthand the manufacturing process and applying YARA fertilizer in the field and understood marketing and distribution strategies for modern agricultural products.
The next visit took students to the Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives (BAAC) Thailand, where they gained in-depth insight into the banking sector’s important role in supporting the agricultural sector’s growth. BAAC Thailand not only provides financial access to farmers but also provides education and assistance to ensure the sustainability of agricultural businesses. This provides a new perspective on how financial institutions can become strategic partners in developing agribusiness.
This scientific trip closed with a visit to Kasetsart University, a renowned higher education institution in Thailand. Here, students not only learn about the learning system and campus environment but are also introduced to various aspects of campus life. This opportunity is not only a learning opportunity but also expands networks and intercultural experiences for students.
Overall, this experience not only provides students with new knowledge but also adds in-depth insight into cultural diversity and the natural environment. Widyakarya 2024 will be an unforgettable journey, expanding students’ global horizons in applying agribusiness knowledge and supporting the sustainable development agenda.