Creating a Generation of Innovative and Independent Farmers, IPB University Launches Student Program for Resilient Farmers

Tani and Nelayan Center (TNC) IPB University officially opened the Resilient Farmer Student Program on Saturday (9/3) at Working Space, BRI Work Building IPB University. This program is expected to produce a generation of young farmers who are resilient, innovative, and able to bring progress to the Indonesian agricultural sector.
The Resilient Farmer Student Program is a TNC IPB University initiative that aims to equip students with skills and insights in agriculture.
The program is designed to create young farmers who not only master cultivation techniques, but also have an entrepreneurial spirit and the ability to adapt to the development of modern agricultural technology.
Rector of IPB University, Prof Arif Satria who was present virtually, emphasized that this program is part of IPB University’s commitment in building a generation of innovative and resilient young farmers.
“Agriculture in the modern era is not just about growing crops, but also includes technological innovation, agribusiness management, and environmental sustainability. This program will help students hone skills, deepen knowledge, and expand networks in the world of agriculture,” said Prof Arif.
Similarly, IPB University Vice Rector for Research, Innovation, and Agromaritime Development, Prof Ernan Rustiadi also emphasized the importance of resilience in facing the challenges of the agricultural world.
“Farmers today must be able to read journals, understand weather forecasts, and have an entrepreneurial spirit. Resilience is not only about knowledge, but also the ability to adapt and innovate,” he said.
He also encouraged participants to make the most of this opportunity, as the program will provide a lot of experience and insight from experts.
Chairman of TNC IPB University, Prof Hermanu Triwidodo expressed his appreciation for the enthusiasm of the young generation who joined this program. “This is a great fortune for TNC IPB University, because we can join students who dare to take risks and contribute to the surrounding environment,” he said.
“This program proves that gen Z is a generation that cannot be underestimated, they have high spirits and strong determination to create positive change,” he added.
Leader of the Student Resilient Farmer Program, Rahel Azzahra, SIKom, in her report said that this program received an overwhelming response from students. Out of more than 400 applicants, only 30 participants made it through the selection process. This program provides an opportunity for students to learn directly through various activities involving lecturers.
During the program, participants will be accompanied by six lecturers. The lecturers come from various scientific fields at IPB University, namely Tri Budiarto, SKPm, MSi; Dr Fitrianingrum Kurniawati; Wanda Russianzi, SP, MSi; Anita Primaswari Widhiani, SP, MSi; Lexi Majesty Pendong, STP, MKom; and Dr Beata Ratnawati.
In the event, Dr Roza Yusfiandayani as Vice Chairman of TNC IPB University also introduced the Tani and Nelayan Center followed by the introduction of the IPB Digitani platform by Nurma Wibi Earthany, SIKom as the manager of the platform.
One of the interesting sessions in this event was the preparation of the Tree of Hope, where participants wrote their hopes for this program on sticky notes and attached them to a paper with a picture of a tree.
Participants were then divided into six groups based on animal names, such as birds, monkeys, fish, worms, snakes, and frogs to strengthen cooperation and togetherness during the program. (TNC) (IAAS/LAN)