In a groundbreaking initiative, researchers from Universitas Muhammadiyah Enrekang have rolled out a community service program aimed at empowering local farmers in Enrekang Regency through sustainable agricultural practices. The focus of this program is the creation of Liquid Organic Fertilizer (POC) using Photosynthetic Bacteria (PSB), a method that not only enhances crop productivity but also promotes healthier soil and reduces dependency on chemical fertilizers.
Ekajayanti Kining, the lead author of this project, highlighted the significance of the training sessions conducted for the Eran Batu Farmer Group in Pekalobean Village. “Our goal was to equip farmers with practical skills that would enable them to produce their own fertilizers sustainably,” she explained. The program unfolded in several stages, beginning with socialization and training, followed by hands-on practice in making POC. Participants were then guided through the establishment of demonstration plots to showcase the effectiveness of their new techniques.
The results speak volumes. A pre-test and post-test analysis revealed a remarkable 42.59% increase in participants’ knowledge and skills, with scores jumping from an average of 68.73 to an impressive 98.00. “Seeing the farmers’ confidence grow as they learned to produce their own organic fertilizer was truly inspiring,” Kining added. Furthermore, the success rate for making POC stood at a staggering 90%, with 95% of participants reporting newfound independence in their production capabilities.
But the benefits don’t stop there. The demonstration plots yielded a notable 22% increase in crop productivity compared to traditional farming methods. This uptick is not just about more vegetables; it also represents a step towards healthier ecosystems, as the use of PSB contributes to improved soil health and enhanced plant resilience against pests and diseases.
The implications of this research are profound, particularly in a world increasingly aware of the need for sustainable agricultural practices. By shifting towards organic solutions, farmers can reduce their costs and improve their profit margins, all while contributing to a greener planet. The initiative serves as a model for how community-driven projects can transform local agriculture and empower farmers economically.
This innovative approach to farming and fertilization was documented in the ‘Jurnal Pengabdian UNDIKMA’ (Journal of Community Service at UNDIKMA), showcasing how science can directly benefit agricultural communities. With continued support and education, the future of farming in Enrekang and beyond looks promising, as more farmers embrace sustainable practices that not only boost their yields but also protect their environment for generations to come.
For more information about this initiative and other research, you can visit Universitas Muhammadiyah Enrekang.