SmartAgri Conducts AWS Campbell Scientific Training for Environmental Monitoring

Yogyakarta, November 4, 2024 – Smart Agriculture Research Center (SmartAgri) Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) held intensive training on the use of Automatic Weather Station (AWS) from Campbell Scientific on November 4, 2024. This activity aims to enhance the skills of students and practitioners in environmental monitoring and weather data management, which is crucial for decision-making in sustainable agriculture in the era of climate change.

Building Technical Competence for Agricultural Resilience

The training attracted various participants, ranging from students to researchers and agricultural practitioners, who recognize the importance of accurate weather data in supporting agricultural productivity amid climate change challenges. Skills in monitoring and understanding weather patterns are much needed to help farmers make appropriate decisions regarding irrigation, crop care, and more efficient land management strategies. In an era of unpredictable climate, the need for reliable environmental data becomes increasingly important in efforts to maintain food security.

Participants learned how to set up and operate AWS, collect environmental data, and conduct weather analysis for direct application in the field. The practical approach in this training provided participants with experience in utilizing AWS technology to effectively monitor environmental conditions. This capability is essential in designing strategies that can reduce the impact of climate change on agricultural output, while also increasing crop yields by leveraging real-time data.

Integrating Technology with Agricultural Practice for Sustainability

The enthusiasm of participants reflected the relevance of this training to their future in an increasingly modern and technology-driven agricultural sector. Many participants expressed that technology such as AWS not only improves the quality of agricultural practice, but also helps maintain food security. The integration between modern technology and traditional agricultural practices is seen as the key to sustainability, especially amid challenging climate conditions. In addition to equipping participants with technical skills, this training also builds a sense of responsibility toward sustainable agriculture among young people.

Commitment to SDGs and Sustainable Efforts for the Future

The training also included discussion on the contribution of this activity to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 2: Zero Hunger and Goal 13: Climate Action. By improving agricultural practices through the use of technology, the trainers emphasized that this initiative can help achieve global objectives related to food security and climate adaptation. The intersection between agriculture and climate change is an important area that requires attention and concrete action from various stakeholders.

As part of a long-term plan, SmartAgri UGM will continue to hold similar training focused on various aspects of precision agriculture and environmental sustainability. Through this initiative, SmartAgri is committed to empowering students and practitioners in Indonesia in building a future of agriculture that is more adaptive, modern, and sustainable.