A debate team consisting of Teddy Prasetyo (Agronomy 2021), Garudhea Iwangga (Agronomy 2020), and Yunita (Agronomy 2022) achieved 2nd place in the Scientific Debate Competition organized by the Plant Pest and Disease Student Association (IMHPT), Faculty of Agriculture, UGM (Faperta UGM). The event, held on Sunday, October 13, 2024, took place in the KPTU Hall of the Faculty of Agriculture at Universitas Gadjah Mada.
Teddy Prasetyo, one of the team members, expressed his gratitude for the achievement. “Alhamdulillah, I’m grateful to win 2nd place and of course, I’m happy,” he said. Teddy and his team prepared intensively for a month, gathering references from both national and international articles and journals.
This achievement showcases the ability of UGM’s Faculty of Agriculture students to excel in academic competitions and present innovative ideas in the field of agriculture. The debate focused on key issues such as the implementation of digital technology for plant disease monitoring in Agriculture 5.0, the use of chemical pesticides in disease control, the role of genetically modified organisms (GMO) in food security, the application of area-wide pest management, and the food estate program. These six topics were the main motions of the debate.
“We countered our opponents’ arguments, but after the debate ended, we shook hands, and the atmosphere remained friendly,” said Teddy, describing the positive environment of the competition. He added that the experience was both exciting and challenging, yet full of learning.
Teddy hopes that other students at UGM’s Faculty of Agriculture will stay motivated. “Believe in your abilities and focus on improving yourself so that your potential can be maximized. Insha Allah, it will lead to future achievements,” he advised.
The success of this debate team is a clear example of how thorough preparation and commitment align with the goals of SDG 2: Zero Hunger, SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, and SDG 15: Life on Land.
Author: Alkhansa Khairunnisa
Editor: Agrit Kirana Bunda