Big Impact On Farmers, EWINDO Expands Learning Farm

JAKARTA - The breakthrough of hybrid vegetable seed producer Cap Panasan Merah PT East West Seed Indonesia (EWINDO) to encourage the success of Indonesian farmers in vegetable cultivation through learning farms or farmer field schools has proven successful and has produced significant results. This makes EWINDO continue to increase this service facility in various agricultural centers to become an effective learning center for farmers.

Jumadi (60), a senior farmer from Central Java, said that for decades as a farmer, he continued to seek knowledge through various communities and personal experiments. However, the presence of Learning Farm accelerates the learning process in real terms. Learning Farm provides practitioners so that farmers who face obstacles can directly ask questions and find solutions. What farmers really need, "said Jumadi.

The man who swerved from an employee of a private company to a farmer emphasized the importance of the learning by doing approach applied by Learning Farm. Farmers not only hear the theory, but also see firsthand the comparison of results between old methods and new technology and science-based methods.

The same thing was conveyed by Medan (58), a chili farmer in North Sumatra who realized the importance of continuing to deepen his knowledge, especially regarding the control of plant diseases. For him, Learning Farm is not only a training ground, but also a source of inspiration and comparison. In addition, Medison also appreciated the transfer of technology that occurred at Learning Farm, such as the use of new varieties and production cost efficiency.

"Initially, I saw that the results of the plants on my land and at Learning Farm were different. After participating in several trainings, I applied the knowledge, the results of my plants were much better. Our economy was even better," said Medison, quoted on Friday, June 20.

Meanwhile, Chairani (50), a farmer from South Kalimantan, highlighted the importance of the existence of Learning Farm as a practice-based educational center and was able to turn doubt into belief. Farmers, who were initially afraid of failure, now dare to try new varieties and techniques because they have seen real evidence.

More than that, Chairani also said that through Learning Farm, farmers in South Kalimantan can overcome problems typical of their area, such as very low land pH.

"Farmers often go their own way. But once they see the explanation at Learning Farm, they become more organized. The explanation is easy to understand and can be immediately applied. With the treatment like at Learning Farm, our land pH can rise from 3 to 6. The impact is extraordinary," he said.

Learning Farm has had a direct impact on increasing production, cost efficiency, and understanding of new technologies. From just farming based on hereditary instincts and habits, farmers are now moving towards agriculture based on science and data. Farmers also feel a moral responsibility to transmit knowledge to other fellow farmers. The end result is not only fertile plants, but also farmers who are more confident, more independent, and better prepared to face the challenges of the times.

Managing Director of EWINDO, Glenn Pardede said the construction of learning farm or field school is a manifestation of the company's commitment to sustainably support the success of farmers in vegetable cultivation. Apart from being a place for transfer of knowledge and technology for farmers, this activity is also a forum for fostering the community, adults and children, to love vegetables more and the world of agriculture.

Since it was first launched in 2022, EWINDO has now built 8 Learning Farms in various regions in Indonesia, including in Batubara, East Lampung, Karawang, Magelang, Malang, Banyuwangi, Hulu Sungai Selatan, and Gowa, each of which has an average land area of 1 hectare. Not only in these areas, EWINDO also plans to continue to add it until it reaches 20 Learning Farms in various regions to provide education to farmers on how to grow well so that the results can be optimal.

Not only technology transfer, EWINDO has also made it easier for farmers to access superior high-quality seeds. Since operating 35 years ago in Indonesia, EWINDO has introduced nearly 300 superior vegetable seeds that have helped Indonesian farmers to achieve a prosperous harvest. The company continues to develop and focus on high-quality seeds: productive, short harvest age, disease resistant, and according to market preferences and ensures the availability of seeds throughout the planting season, with a national distribution network.

"EWINDO as a company based on modern technology in agriculture believes that the development of Learning Farm and cooperation with all stakeholders can help the Government achieve self-sufficiency in horticultural products while realizing the company's commitment to become the best friend of farmers," Glenn concluded.