Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (Kemendiktisaintek) and the Ministry of Agriculture (Kementan) have announced a collaborative research initiative focused on seedling development for key crops and irrigation systems.The joint program will cover cocoa, cashew, nutmeg, coconut, wheat, garlic, corn, and irrigation seedlings, opening new opportunities for research and development involving the academia, industry, and farming communities.
Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, Brian Yuliarto, said on Friday that the program will invite participation from university students, academic institutions, industry players, farmers, and the general public.
“This initiative aligns with our ‘Impactful Students’ program. Seedling and irrigation projects can be implemented through thematic community service (KKN) programs and student government organizations (BEM),” he said in a statement.
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To ensure accountability and quality, the program will involve academic mentors, industry partners, and independent consultants. Several universities have already mapped land around their campuses, and the ministry plans to consolidate this data to identify suitable planting areas, particularly for crops that require specific conditions.
Meanwhile, Minister of Agriculture, Amran Sulaiman, welcomed the collaboration, highlighting the importance of national agro-climate mapping as a strategic priority.
“Accuracy and transparency in mapping and seed selection are essential for the long-term success of the program,” Amran said.
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The ministries expressed the hope the joint research effort will not only lead to scientifically sound agricultural outcomes but also serve as a real-world learning platform for students and communities.
The initiative is seen as a concrete step toward sustainable agriculture, rooted in scientific research and driven by youth participation.
