City of Banjar, May 6, 2025. As part of the Evaluation Activities for Irrigation Modernization in the Manganti Irrigation Area on May 5-6, 2025, a session on the Introduction of the Irrigation Knowledge Management Center (IKMC) was held, featuring Ir. Andri Prima Nugroho, Ph.D., and Prof. Dr. Sigit Supadmo Arif as speakers. This event is part of a collaboration between the Center for Irrigation and Agricultural Modernization Studies (PKMIP) and the Directorate of Water Resources Engineering at the Ministry of Public Works. The presentation titled “Irrigation Knowledge Management Center (IKMC) – Building a Knowledge Foundation for National Irrigation Modernization Sustainability” was attended by various stakeholders, including the Head of BBWS Citanduy, Dr. Elroy Koyari, and Muhammad Ramdhani, Head of OP BWS Citanduy.
The IKMC presentation emphasized the importance of structured knowledge management in supporting the sustainability of irrigation modernization. IKMC is designed as a solution to address challenges in the dynamic implementation of irrigation technology, ensuring program sustainability, and facilitating access to information for stakeholders. The IKMC concept, which is a more specific development of the Water Resources Knowledge Management Center, is expected to provide solutions for the application of irrigation technology in the field.
One key point discussed was the need for effective inventorying of irrigation technologies and standardized knowledge taxonomy to facilitate the search and application of appropriate technologies. The presentation also highlighted the experience of the Manganti Irrigation Area, which has implemented an advanced irrigation management information system, including forecasting models and artificial intelligence (AI). This system provides access to rainfall information (through Sihka) and real-time data on irrigation conditions.
The interactive discussion involved various questions from participants, including those regarding irrigation challenges in tidal areas, the role of the Irrigation Commission (Komir), and human resource management strategies. These questions underscored the complexity of challenges in irrigation modernization and the importance of an integrated approach involving multiple parties. The Irrigation Modernization Team provided comprehensive answers and solutions, emphasizing the need for further studies and recommendations to ensure the success and sustainability of the irrigation modernization program in the Manganti Irrigation Area.
The IKMC presentation in the Manganti Irrigation Area is expected to be a starting point for the implementation of an effective knowledge management system to support the success of irrigation modernization in Indonesia. By focusing on agricultural productivity and addressing climate change, the IKMC aims to enhance the resilience of irrigation systems and promote sustainable agricultural practices.
In conclusion, the introduction of the IKMC represents a significant step towards modernizing irrigation practices in Indonesia. The collaboration between academic institutions and government bodies is crucial in developing innovative solutions that can adapt to the challenges posed by climate change. As the agricultural sector continues to evolve, the integration of technology and knowledge management will play a vital role in ensuring food security and sustainable development.
The event concluded with a commitment from all stakeholders to work together in implementing the recommendations from the discussions. The success of the IKMC initiative will depend on continuous collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the active involvement of all parties in the irrigation modernization process.
