Kediri - Lecturer in the Agrotechnology Study Program at the University of Muhammadiyah Malang (UMM) has won a matching fund grant in 2023 for a project to develop the PK-1 pineapple variety in Kediri Regency. In a project aimed at increasing the productivity and quality of pineapples, the lecturers will also involve local pineapple farmers in training and mentoring in the manufacture of urine-based liquid organic fertilizer called "Bio Vermi Grow".
The training was held at the Ngancar Village Extension Office, Kediri Regency, and was attended by more than 20 pineapple farmers who are members of several farmer groups. In the training event, the Department of Agriculture and Plantation of Kediri Regency also participated as a strategic partner in this project, demonstrating their commitment to sustainable agricultural development.
Dr. Fatimah Nursandi, one of the lecturers involved in this project, explained that the liquid organic fertilizer "Bio Vermi Grow" is designed to substitute the use of chemical fertilizers in pineapple plants. "We are trying to educate farmers about the benefits of organic urine-based fertilizers in improving soil quality and pineapple yields," said Dr. Fatima.
This project also involved collaboration with several lecturers from UMM Malang and UNISKA Kediri as well as the District Agriculture and Plantation Office. Kediri which has expertise in agrotechnology and agricultural science. This collaborative step is expected to create productive synergies in producing innovative and sustainable agricultural solutions.
In his remarks, the Head of the Kediri Regency Agriculture and Plantation Office, Mr. Anang Widodo, welcomed this initiative. "We appreciate the active role of the University of Muhammadiyah Malang in assisting agricultural development in this area. With this training, we hope that pineapple farmers in Kediri Regency can apply agricultural techniques that are more environmentally friendly and sustainable," said Mr. Anang Widodo.
With this 2023 matching fund grant, it is hoped that the PK-1 pineapple development project and training in making liquid organic fertilizer will have a positive impact on pineapple farmers in Kediri Regency and also become an inspiring example for sustainable agricultural development in other regions.
