Saturday, 24 May 2025 – In an effort to promote farmers’ independence and optimize the utilization of local resources, the Aquaculture Study Program of Hasanuddin University conducted a community service activity in Sipodeceng Village, Baranti District, Sidenreng Rappang (Sidrap) Regency, South Sulawesi. The activity, themed “Application of Appropriate Technology for Rice–Fish Farming (Mina Padi),” aims to introduce and implement an integrated farming system combining rice cultivation and fish farming (mina padi) as a sustainable solution to increase farmers’ income and improve land-use efficiency.
In this community service activity, Ir. Edison Saade, M.Sc., Ph.D., a lecturer and resource person, presented a number of appropriate technology innovations that are environmentally friendly and applicable for farming communities. These included adjustments to rice planting patterns that allow optimal space for fish movement, the utilization of organic waste as alternative feed, integrated rice–fish farming systems, and environmentally safe, natural pest control methods. “This initiative aims to assist farmers in optimizing the function of paddy fields, not only as a medium for rice cultivation but also as a site for fish farming that can sustainably increase income,” stated Ir. Edison Saade, M.Sc., Ph.D.
The community of Sipodeceng Village warmly welcomed the program. Farmers showed great enthusiasm in participating in the training sessions and field practices provided. Support also came from the village government, which hopes that this program can serve as a model for other villages in Sidrap. The Head of Sipodeceng Village expressed appreciation for the program. “We are very grateful for the knowledge transfer from the university. We hope that programs like this can continue sustainably and provide long-term benefits,” he stated.
“This activity is very beneficial. With simple yet appropriate technology, we can learn new ways of farming that are more profitable,” said one of the participating farmers.
This program aligns with the spirit of the Tri Dharma of Higher Education, particularly in community service. Through a participatory approach, this activity not only provides short-term solutions but also instills a spirit of innovation and sustainability in rural agricultural practices. The community service team hopes that this activity will serve as a starting point for long-term collaboration between the university and the community in building a resilient, productive, and adaptive agricultural system in response to change.