Commemoration of Kartini Day on April 21 every year is not only a moment to remember Kartini’s service and fighting spirit but also to reflect on the role of women in various sectors of life, including the agricultural sector. Women often hold significant roles in this sector. In agricultural commodity cultivation activities, women also contribute to planting, caring for plants, and even harvesting. Apart from that, at the post-harvest stage, women are also involved in raising livestock, processing agricultural products, and marketing products.
The role of women in agriculture is not only limited to daily activities in the field but also impacts achieving sustainable development goals. According to Kurnyasih et al., (2023) one of the causes that encourages women (wives) to work in the public sector is family poverty. This study shows that women’s contribution to the agricultural sector is part of active participation in helping reduce poverty by increasing family income and access to food.
The role of women in the agricultural sector is not to be underestimated. They are not only the main movers in the field, but also as agents of change in efforts to achieve sustainable development goals. However, their potential is yet to be fully realized. Increasing women’s access to education, training, and resources is a crucial step to amplify their contribution to agriculture and overall development. The momentum of Kartini Day presents a timely opportunity to appreciate the contribution of women in agriculture and take concrete steps to strengthen their role in achieving sustainable development goals.
Bibliography:
Kurnyasih, A., Azhari, B. A., Siregar, R. H., & Silalahi, P. R. (2023). Analisis kontribusi petani perempuan terhadap pendapatan keluarga di Desa Bekalar Kecamatan Kandis Kabupaten Siak. Journal of Creative Student Research, 1(1) : 01-12.