IPB University Lecturer Introduces Hydroponic Technology and Digital Farming to Students and Teachers of SMAN 1 Bumiayu
In an effort to strengthen the skills of students and teachers in the field of modern and sustainable agriculture, State Senior High School (SMAN) 1 Bumiayu held a Workshop on Hydroponic Technology Development and Digital Farming. This activity aims to integrate Pancasila values in every aspect of education and the application of technology in learning.
Principal of SMAN 1 Bumiayu, Yuniarso Amirudin, S.Pd, M.S.i, stated, “We strongly support this program because it is in line with the school’s vision to equip students with knowledge and skills relevant to technological developments. We hope, through this workshop, students will not only understand the concept of modern agriculture, but also be able to apply it in the greenhouse and hydroponic facilities owned by SMAN 1 Bumiayu,” he said.
The workshop presented expert speakers Dr Supriyanto, Directorate of Agromaritime Community Development (DPMA) IPB University, Dr Mohamad Solahudin and Lilis Sucahyo, both Lecturers of the Department of Mechanical and Biosystem Engineering, Faculty of Agricultural Engineering and Technology (Fateta) IPB University.
Dr Mohamad Solahudin gave an in-depth presentation on the potential of hydroponics as an environmentally friendly and efficient urban farming solution and the concept of digital farming to optimize the process of plant growth and cultivation.
Meanwhile, Lilis Sucahyo explained various micro-irrigation technologies in plant cultivation with hydroponic technology. Dr Supriyanto in his presentation also conveyed the Agribusiness and Technology Park (ATP) facility as an IPB University innovation showcase area that carries out business activities in the field of horticulture, educational services, and community service.
Students and teachers of SMAN 1 Bumiayu, had the opportunity to learn first-hand about basic techniques, micro-irrigation, making nutrient solutions, planting media, seedling sowing and advanced techniques in vegetable cultivation using hydroponic systems.
In addition, they were also introduced to the concept of digital farming, which includes the use of sensors, crop monitoring applications, and data analytics to improve the productivity and efficiency of hydroponic cultivation in the greenhouse.
The participants were also invited to do practices ranging from making nutrient solutions, greenhouse analysis, transplanting to the installation of digital devices for monitoring the temperature and humidity of the plant environment that can be monitored using android applications from the participants’ devices.
“This workshop was very interesting and added to our knowledge about agricultural technology. I better understand the importance of technology in increasing agricultural yields and innovative ways to grow crops with hydroponic methods and the use of sensors,” said one of the students. (*/Lp) (IAAS/NYS).
