Kick Off Village Business Ecosystem Innovation Program, IPB University and PT Agrinesia Raya Planting Taro For The First Time

IPB University through the Directorate of Agromaritime Community Development (DPMA) and PT Agrinesia Raya (Sangkuriang) held a kick off meeting by planting the first taro in Agribusiness and Technology Park (ATP) IPB University (19/8). This taro planting is a follow-up to the cooperation of the village business ecosystem innovation program based on economic empowerment and community assistance.

In his speech, Director of PMA IPB University, Dr Handian Purwawangsa stated that the development of this village business is part of IPB University’s vision as part of the techno-sociopreneurship program.

“This effort has been carried out on an ongoing basis, with the aim of encouraging one of them social entrepreneurship. Collaboration between the community, university, and the business world is the main key in realising this vision,” he said.

Dr Handian hopes that, with the synergy between various parties, this program can run smoothly and achieve the expected results.

“The development of this village business based on social entrepreneurship can be a sustainable model, which lifts the welfare of the village community and also strengthens the relationship between the academic and industrial sectors. This program will make a real contribution in creating positive changes for all parties involved,” he said.

Meanwhile, Marketing Manager of PT Agrinesia Raya, Nanang Siswanto explained that the purpose of this activity is to establish collaboration with micro, small, and medium enterprises (UMKM), city and district governments, communities, and educational institutions.

Nanang hopes that this collaboration can produce the best seeds and innovative products that are beneficial for many parties.

“In our outlet, 35 percent of the space has been allocated for UMKM products. The program focuses not only on developing the taro business, but also its derivative products. Through the village business ecosystem based on economic empowerment and community assistance, we hope to create high quality products from upstream to downstream that benefit all parties,” he said.

In this activity also invited various stakeholders including IPB University experts as well as lecturers from the Faculty of Agricultural Technology, Dr Tjahja Muhandri; Chief of the Agronomy and Horticulture Study Program, Prof Edi Santosa, and taro farmer partners. (dr/Rz) (IAAS/IAN)