The Q&A session during the comparative study visit of the Faculty of Agriculture, Padjadjaran University, to the Faculty of Agriculture, Gadjah Mada University (Faperta UGM) was dynamic and insightful. Questions were delivered by Prof. Yusup Hidayat, S.P., M.Phil., Ph.D., Vice Dean I of the Faculty of Agriculture, Padjadjaran University, who highlighted two strategic issues: preparation for accreditation and the mechanism for releasing varieties through multi-location testing, particularly regarding funding.
Responding to this, the leadership of the Faculty of Agriculture, UGM, provided a comprehensive explanation:
- Dr. Ir. Benito Heru Purwanto, M.P., M.Agr., emphasized that accreditation strategies must be based on data preparedness that aligns with assessment indicators. Assessment simulations are necessary to achieve optimal results, and students’ non-academic achievements should not be overlooked as part of the holistic assessment.
- Subejo, S.P., M.Sc., Ph.D., explained that releasing varieties for multi-location trials is indeed complex. Funding at the Faculty of Agriculture, Gadjah Mada University (UGM), comes from universities, faculties, and external partners. He emphasized the importance of opening up collaboration opportunities with companies and external parties to support sustainable funding.
- Dr. Ir. Aziz Purwantoro, M.Sc., added that the faculty’s primary focus is plant breeding to produce pure strains. Afterward, the varieties are patented through the Supreme Audit Agency (BPK) as proof of UGM’s innovation. Furthermore, the faculty partners with companies under a royalty or buyout scheme before conducting multi-location trials with external funding support.
This discussion reflected the commitment of both faculties to strengthening the Tri Dharma of Higher Education, while also supporting the achievement of SDG 2: Zero Hunger, SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals. Through open dialogue, the Faculty of Agriculture demonstrated its readiness to face the challenges of accreditation and variety innovation and strengthened its collaborative network with external partners to support sustainable agricultural development.
Author: Beny Nabila Happy Fauziah
Editor: Tantriani
Documentation: Faperta UGM Media Unit