IPB University Strengthens Collaboration to Enhance the Quality of Indonesian Dairy Farmers Through the USIDP Program

Bogor, January 7^th, 2025 – IPB University, in collaboration with the United States Dairy Export Council (USDEC) and the New Mexico Department of Agriculture (NMDA), USA, has reinforced its partnership in the Indonesia Dairy Farmer Partnership (USIDP). This program aims to educate and support Indonesian dairy farmers.

The memorandum of understanding for this collaboration was signed during the Kick-Off of the USIDP Education Program and the National Seminar on “Indonesian Dairy Farming Scale-Up Strategy,” held at the IPB International Convention Center on Tuesday (7/1).

This collaboration is a follow-up to discussions between USDEC and the Directorate General of Animal Husbandry and Animal Health, Ministry of Agriculture. The discussions align with USDEC’s plans to improve the skills of small-scale dairy farmers in Indonesia, supporting the government’s efforts to increase the population of dairy cows as well as the quality and volume of milk production.

“The collaboration between IPB University, USDEC, and NMDA, along with various stakeholders in the dairy industry in Indonesia, will result in effective capacity-building programs for dairy farmers in different regions across the country,” said IPB University Rector, Prof. Arif Satria.

“This initiative is also expected to contribute to supporting government programs, such as the Free Nutritious Meals Program,” he added.

Dr. Vivi Yulaswati, Deputy for Maritime Affairs and Natural Resources, Ministry of National Development Planning, emphasized that one of the national priorities is to strengthen the country’s security system while promoting self-sufficiency through food independence.

She highlighted that these goals could be achieved by increasing meat and milk production, as well as controlling animal diseases and ensuring food safety.

“Enhancing the capacity of human resources (HR) and institutional support for farmers is critical for the development of Indonesia’s livestock sector, especially since most livestock ownership lies with small-scale farmers,” she noted.

Dr. Vivi further explained that addressing the challenges of sustainable productivity growth requires the adoption of modern technology, outreach efforts, training, and education.

“This activity is crucial in providing actionable recommendations for improving the human resource capacity of Indonesia’s livestock sector,” she concluded.

Representing the Directorate General of Animal Husbandry and Animal Health, Ministry of Agriculture, Drh. Imron Suandy, Director of Animal Health, expressed his support and appreciation for this educational initiative.

Meanwhile, Jonathan Gardner, Senior Vice President of Market Access and Regulatory Affairs at USDEC, stated that the USIDP program is ready to assist Indonesia in enhancing farmer capacities through various training programs, including those delivered via digital platforms.

The seminar also featured expert speakers in dairy farming and dairy production and involved stakeholders from academia, central and regional governments, dairy business practitioners, dairy farmers, and professional associations.

Source: Bureau of Communication, IPB University