15.2.5 : Sustainable management of land for agriculture (educational outreach)
UTM perkasa petani menua melalui ilmu ergonomik pertanian
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) launched a targeted outreach initiative entitled “UTM Perkasa Petani Menua Melalui Ilmu Ergonomik Pertanian” to strengthen sustainable land management and productivity among senior farmers. This programme introduced the concept of agricultural ergonomics, focusing on reducing physical strain, improving work safety, and optimizing farming efficiency for ageing rural populations.
The initiative identified key challenges faced by older farmers—including labour-intensive practices, limited access to modern tools, and declining soil health—which directly affect land sustainability and productivity. UTM researchers developed adaptive educational modules combining ergonomic design principles, sustainable farming techniques, and soil-conservation practices. Farmers were trained through hands-on workshops on safe land cultivation methods, efficient planting postures, and sustainable crop rotation systems that preserve soil fertility.
To assess programme effectiveness, UTM applied participatory monitoring and feedback sessions, documenting improvements in farmers’ productivity and land-use efficiency. Modelling exercises highlighted the comparative outcomes of traditional versus ergonomic farming systems, demonstrating reduced health risks and enhanced land resilience with intervention.
This outreach represents UTM’s ongoing commitment to sustainable agricultural education and community empowerment, bridging scientific knowledge with local wisdom. By promoting ergonomic and sustainable farming methods, UTM contributes directly to SDG 15.3 – Combat land degradation and promote sustainable land use, ensuring inclusive and adaptive agricultural development for Malaysia’s rural communities.
Source :
https://news.utm.my/2024/08/utm-perkasa-petani-menua-melalui-ilmu-ergonomik-pertanian/
UTM perkasa petani menua melalui ilmu ergonomik pertanian
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) is effectively promoting green education and the sustainable management of land for agriculture through its "Herb and Vegetable Garden Project," a Service-Learning initiative in collaboration with the Johor Bahru District Department of Agriculture and SK Kangkar Pulai 2. The project successfully renovated the school's existing gardens—including a Herb Garden, Vegetable Garden, and Hydroponic Garden—into hands-on educational hubs. UTM students mentored 35 Year 4 pupils in practical skills, such as correct planting methods and plant care. Furthermore, the initiative integrated technology by equipping the gardens with informative posters featuring QR codes to provide additional details, connecting the physical agricultural practices with digital learning. The children took home their own potted herbs and "DIY Germination Kits," ensuring the educational outreach on sustainable agriculture continues beyond the two-day program and into their homes. This effort showcases UTM's commitment to instilling values of sustainability and practical environmental education in the local community.
Source :
https://news.utm.my/2024/12/utm-terap-pendidikan-hijau-melalui-projek-taman-herba-dan-sayuran/
