Bogor, 26 February 2026 — SEAMEO BIOTROP officially commenced its In-House Training on the management and utilization of sub-optimal land as part of strengthening its Flagship Sub-Optimal Land Program. The training, held from 26 February to 17 April 2026, involves 19 prospective internal trainers from various departments, including SITD, HCID, HRAD, FAD, FMD, KPCD, and the Procurement Unit. The initiative is designed to enhance internal capacity, enabling SEAMEO BIOTROP staff to serve as instructors in sub-optimal land management training programs for vocational high school (SMK) teachers.

The program was formally opened by the Director of SEAMEO BIOTROP, Dr. Edi Santosa, who reaffirmed the Centre’s role as a frontier institution in research and development. He emphasized that the training serves as a platform to strengthen competencies, integrate ongoing cross-unit research, and enhance institutional synergy. He further highlighted the importance of generating innovative and sustainable solutions to address evolving environmental challenges.

In his remarks, Deputy Director for Program Dr. Doni Yusri stated that the training constitutes a strategic component in supporting the implementation of the Sub-Optimal Land Program, which was initiated in 2025 and is scheduled to enter its implementation phase during the 2026–2028 period. He underscored the importance of a research-based and application-oriented approach, particularly in facilitating the transfer of knowledge and practical skills to teachers and school communities, thereby positioning educators as agents of change.

The training covers five main topics: introduction and basic conservation of sub-optimal land; identification of contaminated soil and water; weed identification in affected areas; cultivation techniques on sub-optimal land; and composting and biofertilizer production. The sessions are delivered by resource persons from SEAMEO BIOTROP and IPB University in accordance with their respective areas of expertise.

Through this In-House Training, SEAMEO BIOTROP reaffirms its commitment to strengthening internal instructor capacity while enhancing the competencies of vocational school teachers in sub-optimal land management and utilization. Supported by practical learning modules, the program is expected to promote sustainable practices and expand educational impact within school communities.