Pekanbaru, July 7, 2025 — The Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, Faculty of Agricultural Technology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (DTPB FTP UGM) continues to play an active role in strengthening human resource development for Indonesia’s strategic plantation sector. One of its lecturers, Dr. Ir. Radi, S.T.P., M.Eng., IPU., ASEAN Eng., APEC Eng., was invited as a guest speaker at a training event titled “Human Resource Development for Oil Palm Plantations,” organized by PT. Lembaga Pendidikan Perkebunan (LPP) Agro Nusantara. The event took place at Aryaduta Hotel, Pekanbaru, Riau, with support from the Indonesian Oil Palm Plantation Fund Management Agency (BPDPKS) under the Ministry of Finance and the Directorate General of Plantations, Ministry of Agriculture.
During the training, Dr. Radi delivered a presentation on Introduction to Agricultural Tools and Machinery for Oil Palm Plantations. He explained the basic principles of plantation mechanization, covering the types and functions of agricultural machinery used throughout the oil palm production process, including land preparation, plant maintenance, harvesting, and post-harvest handling. The training emphasized how the use of appropriate tools and machinery can significantly improve efficiency, productivity, and occupational safety in plantation operations.
Beyond technical knowledge, Dr. Radi also encouraged participants to be aware of the current challenges in the oil palm sector, particularly the need for modernization, increased production efficiency, and the implementation of sustainable practices. He stressed that enhancing the competencies of smallholder farmers and plantation workers through quality training is a concrete step toward strengthening the competitiveness and sustainability of Indonesia’s palm oil industry.
This activity reflects DTPB FTP UGM’s commitment to its community service mission, which goes beyond academic excellence to include meaningful contributions to industry and society. Through collaborations like this, the department serves not only as a center for education but also as a source of scientific knowledge, technological innovation, and practical solutions for stakeholders.
This initiative also aligns with the department’s efforts to support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including:
- SDG 4 (Quality Education): by enhancing the knowledge and technical skills of oil palm farmers and workers.
- SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth): by promoting productivity and efficiency in plantation operations.
- SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure): through the introduction of appropriate agricultural technology.
- SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production): by encouraging sustainable practices in the oil palm industry.
