They are indigenous local female peasants whom i met in early July. Unlike migrant settlers, they were commonly incapable of producing vegetable intensively as they are used to harnessing locally domesticated vegetable from surrounding forest
After conducting close observation, I figured out that their lack of knowledge and skill in vegetable cultivation occured not because they are lazy and don't have will as many said but simply due to improper and inadequate assistance from existing related stakeholders.
To boost their prowess, we made several deals to hold a number of andragogy-based education programs aimed to improve technical expertise through theoretical and practical lessons. The paramount goal is to enable them to independently produce vegetable efficiently and effectively.
In the first month, we had four consecutive meetings during which we discussed vegetable cultivation techniques ranging from choosing crop variety, seedling establishment, crop nutrition and fertilizing, crop protection, to safety of work.
Later on, we moved into field and practical lessons held on the demoplot. Funded collaboratively by Bina Tani Sejahtera foundation and the female peasants, we established the intensive vegetable garden next to unfinished church building located in Kedamin Darat, South Putussibau, Kapuas Hulu, West Borneo.
There, we produced chicken manure mixed with NPK 16:16:16, dolomite powder, TSP, and micronutrients-containing fertilizer. Concomitantly, we also carried out land cultivation which was tailored to meet the characteristics of female peasant while also fulfilling the crops demands.
Soon as the base fertilizer consisted of chicken manure and those chemical fertilizers were incorporated into the planting beds, we sowed cucumber, long yard bean, bitter gourd, and pumpkin.
Thereafter, we both nursed, observed and evaluated weekly crop grow. Fertilizers, pesticides and insect traps applications which are in-line with Good Agricultural Practices were also directly administered by them onto the crops.
Nowadays, their proficiency is progressing forward. 2 months later, they are able to satisfactorily grow vegetables as you can look at the these pictures depicting nothing but perfect and beautiful green vegetable garden. Currently, they are either looking forward to harvesting the crops or expecting high yields
In the end, before departing the regency to go back to my hometown, I hope I can proudly see them becoming capable peasants who are not only good at generating staple food but also vegetable
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