General Lecture by Professors from the University of Wisconsin, Discusses Various Issues: Colostrum for Calves to Sensor Technology Applications in Farming.
The Faculty of Animal Science (Fapet) at IPB University hosted two professors from the University of Wisconsin (UW) as part of a “General Lecture-Visiting Professor” program. They are Prof Guilherme JM Rosa from UW-Madison and Prof Sylvia Kehoe from UW-River Falls.
“The topics discussed will focus on the use of computer vision and artificial intelligence (AI) for animal production, the importance of colostrum for calf health, precision farming, and various applications of sensor technology in animal husbandry,” explained Prof Idat Galih Permana, Dean of Fapet IPB University.
In his remarks, Prof Idat also stated that Fapet would explore collaboration opportunities with the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the University of Wisconsin-River Falls.
“We will consider developing precision farming courses for students and sending them to study under the supervision of Prof Guilherme at the University of Wisconsin-Madison,” he said.
Additionally, Fapet will explore the application of computer vision and AI technology for animal production in research and teaching, updating their colostrum management practices based on recommendations from Prof Sylvia Kehoe.
Moderated by Prof Epi Taufik, Prof Sylvia presented the first session with the theme “Unleash the Power of Colostrum.” She delivered material focused on the importance of colostrum for calf health and farm management.
“Colostrum, the first milk produced by cows after giving birth, is rich in nutrients and antibodies important for calf immunity,” she explained. Prof Sylvia also emphasized the need for prompt and clean colostrum administration within two hours of birth.
“Delayed colostrum administration will reduce its effectiveness. Recent research shows the benefits of extended colostrum feeding and its potential for wound healing,” she asserted.
Next, the general lecture on “Leveraging Computer Vision and Artificial Intelligence for Animal Production” was presented by Prof Guilherme JM Rosa. In his presentation, he discussed various applications of sensor technology in farming.
“This technology can aid research, breeding, and management by measuring traits that were previously difficult to assess,” he explained. Prof Guilherme also stressed the importance of integrating various sensor technologies for better animal management.
The event was attended not only by the academic community of IPB University but also by Christopher John Summers, the Program Management Advisor to the Minister of Agriculture. (Femmy) (IAAS/RIN)
