SUIJI-SLP 2024, an Event for Japanese and IPB University Students to Learn Plant Cultivation in Cianjur

IPB University held the Six University Initiative Japan Indonesia – Service Learning Programme (SUIJI-SLP) 2024 Workshop in Sarongge Valley, Cianjur (8/3). This activity is a collaboration between the Directorate of Agromaritime Community Development (DPMA) and the Directorate of International Education (DPI) of IPB University.

Through this year’s SUIJI-SLP programme, as many as 8 Japanese students and 24 IPB University students learned plant cultivation in Cianjur Regency, West Java.

“This activity can be a place to learn from each other about plant cultivation in Cianjur Regency. This is an area with a lot of potential for food and horticulture. We are proud to be the venue for SUIJI-SLP activities. Hopefully it can be useful in the world of agriculture,” said a representative of the Cianjur Regency Food Crops, Horticulture, Plantation and Food Security Office, Heni Purwaningsih.

She said she enthusiastically welcomed the programme. According to her, this programme can be an input for farmer groups for agricultural sustainability.

Assistant Director of Agromaritime Services and Digital Farming of DPMA IPB University, Dr Supriyanto, said the programme was implemented in two different countries, namely Indonesia and Japan with a two-week implementation time in each country. The field activities were carried out in several locations including Ciputri Village, Pacet District and Cibeureum Village, Cugenang District, Cianjur Regency.

“The existence of SUIJI-SLP is expected to involve more locations and types of activities to support community development to achieve a better level of social resilience,” he said.

Vice Rector of IPB University for Research, Innovation and Agromaritime Development, Prof Ernan Rustiadi, said that the activities that had been carried out included an introduction to the area and agricultural practices for horticultural products. In addition, participants have also conducted community social activities based on learning and social interaction.

“We are committed to actively participating in this valuable experience to have a positive impact on the development of science and the advancement of society,” he said.

Kochi University lecturer Shingo Akaike expressed his gratitude for the valuable opportunities and experiences that have been provided, especially for Japanese students.

“My own experience was particularly memorable when interacting with farmers in the highlands, where I gained a deep understanding of agricultural practices. With this opportunity, we hope to continue to contribute to the improvement of their knowledge and broaden their horizons,” he explained. (dr/Rz) (IAAS/RUM)