Deputy Minister Sudaryono Highlights Key Role of Young People in Achieving Agricultural Self-Sufficiency
Indonesia’s Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Sudaryono, has emphasized the vital role of young people in transforming the country’s agriculture sector as a strategic step toward achieving national food self-sufficiency. Speaking at the National Consolidation of Millennial Farmer Representatives in Semarang, Central Java, Sudaryono addressed hundreds of young farmers and youth organizations, stressing that their involvement is critical for the future of Indonesia’s agricultural development.
The Importance of Youth in Agriculture
Sudaryono highlighted that young people are well-positioned to introduce modern agricultural technologies and sustainable farming practices that can boost productivity. He praised the innovative and adaptive nature of millennials, pointing out that their creativity and technological savvy can bring about transformative changes in the agriculture industry.
“The agricultural sector highly needs the contribution of youngsters because they are considered to be innovative, adaptive, creative, and have the ability to bring about changes through technology,” Sudaryono stated.
Government Commitment to Supporting Young Farmers
The Deputy Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting young farmers by providing them with technological tools and training necessary to develop and modernize agriculture. This initiative aims to enhance their skills and knowledge in using advanced farming technologies, which will play a crucial role in meeting Indonesia’s goal of food self-sufficiency.
Sudaryono also encouraged young people to take a holistic approach to agriculture, looking beyond the production stage to focus on downstream sectors that include processing, creating derivative products, and developing new business opportunities that can increase the value of agricultural commodities.
Sustainable Development and Business Growth
He stressed the need for sustainable agricultural practices that not only focus on production but also on business development throughout the value chain, thereby ensuring long-term growth and sustainability for the agriculture sector.
By promoting value-added agriculture, the government believes it can significantly boost the country’s ability to be self-sufficient while also creating job opportunities for young people in rural areas.
Alignment with National Food Self-Sufficiency Goals
This initiative is in line with the broader objectives set by President Prabowo Subianto, who recently expressed confidence that Indonesia will achieve food self-sufficiency within the next four to five years. In his inaugural address on October 20, President Subianto emphasized the importance of this goal in reducing dependency on food imports and ensuring the country’s long-term food security.
Sudaryono’s call to action for young people to take a leading role in transforming the agricultural sector is seen as a key step in realizing these national objectives. With government support and the integration of modern technology, Indonesia aims to become more resilient in its food production capabilities.
What’s next?
As Indonesia moves toward achieving food self-sufficiency, the involvement of the younger generation will be pivotal in shaping the future of agriculture. The government’s commitment to supporting millennial farmers through technology, education, and business development initiatives reflects a forward-thinking approach to sustainable growth in the agricultural sector.
