MUAR, 2 Julai 2025 – Igniting a passion for agriculture from the ground up, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), through its Innovation Centre In Agritechnology for Advanced Bioprocessing (ICA), successfully conducted a hands-on agricultural education program at Sekolah Kebangsaan Panchor, Muar. The program, titled ‘Basic and Practical Seed Sowing and Seedling Transfer of Sweet Corn,’ aimed to equip the school community with fundamental agricultural knowledge and skills.

The initiative, which ran from 7:45 AM to 11:00 AM, was spearheaded by Prof. Madya Ir. Dr. Mohamad Shukri bin Zainal Abidin, a Research Associate at ICA UTM, with the involvement of ICA researchers, research officers, engineers from UTM Kampus Pagoh, and the staff and students of Sekolah Kebangsaan Panchor.

The program commenced with registration and welcoming remarks, followed by three theoretical sessions led by ICA UTM researchers. These sessions covered the basics of seed sowing, practical sowing methods, and seedling transfer techniques. Subsequently, a practical session was held in an open area where students and teachers engaged in direct sowing and seedling transfer activities under the guidance of experts.

The primary objective of the program was to empower the school community with essential agricultural knowledge and skills, fostering community capacity building through practical education. This initiative also contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). By providing hands-on experience and theoretical knowledge, UTM aims to cultivate an interest in agriculture among the younger generation and promote sustainable practices within the local community. Such initiatives are crucial in fostering a new generation of agricultural enthusiasts and contribute to the nation’s food security agenda. Similar educational outreach programs could significantly enhance agricultural literacy and promote sustainable farming practices across Malaysia. These initiatives help bridge the gap between academic research and practical application, ensuring that the benefits of agricultural innovation reach the wider community.

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By: Puan Zulaikha Binti Sarobo, Innovation Centre In Agritechnology, Jabatan Timbalan Naib Canselor (Penyelidikan & Inovasi)