Chapters from the Rain City

          On Day 8 of our exchange program, we headed back to Sukabumi for another exciting day of hands-on agricultural experiences. Our first stop was the  greenhouse , where we had the chance to harvest  cherry tomatoes  and  chili peppers  grown using a  hydroponic system  with a  drip irrigation  setup. This method, which allows plants to grow without soil, uses nutrient-rich water to feed the crops, and the  drip irrigation system  ensures they receive just the right amount of water.           In the greenhouse, we were tasked with picking the best  cherry tomatoes  and  chili peppers . For the tomatoes, we focused on selecting the largest and reddest ones, ensuring they were ripe and ready to eat. Similarly, we picked the biggest  chili peppers . Interestingly, the chili peppers grown in this system didn’t have the strong, spicy smell typically as...

          On Day 7 of our exchange program at IPB University (IPBU), we had the chance to learn a practical and essential skill for handling farm animals: the proper utilization of rope and knot tying. Under the guidance of Mr. Fariz, we were introduced to the different ways rope can be used to safely and securely manage livestock, particularly cattle.           Mr. Fariz started by explaining why knot tying is an essential skill in animal husbandry, particularly for managing cattle, sheep, and goats. He emphasized the importance of securing the animals properly, as the right knot ensures that the animal stays in place without causing harm to itself or others. Rope is commonly used for tying cattle to trees, steel bars, or posts when they need to be held in place, whether for feeding, grooming, or during medical checkups.           We learned various knot tying techniques, such as the  type of...

          On day six of our exchange program at IPB University (IPBU), we were up early for a hands-on learning experience about livestock anatomy. The day was dedicated to learning about cattle, sheep, and goats. Our lecturer, Mr. Fariz, kicked off the morning with a brief introduction to the laboratory and safety procedures before we headed straight to the livestock areas.           Our first stop was the  cattle area  where we got up close to the cows (or  sapi , as they are called in Bahasa Indonesia). Mr. Fariz gave us a detailed look at the cattle anatomy, explaining their physical structure, including their skeletal system, muscle groups, and other external features like the head, neck, and horns. One of the key points that stuck with me was the importance of safe handling when working with such large animals. He emphasized that cattle, due to their size and strength, can be unpredictable, so it’s essentia...

          On Monday, our fifth day at IPB University (IPBU), we embarked on an early morning journey to the Sukabumi campus for a lecture and practicum session. The nearly two-hour drive was well worth it, as we were greeted by perfect weather upon arrival—crisp air, the sun just beginning to rise, and a gentle breeze that welcomed us into the expansive campus. Surrounded by towering mountains, the campus provided a serene and inspiring backdrop for the day’s activities.           Our first session was a lecture by Ms. Ima on aquaculture entrepreneurship. The discussion was lively and insightful, with IPBU students presenting their business ventures related to aquaculture. Each student showcased unique products or services, demonstrating how they applied classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios. They shared details about their initial capital, revenue, and marketing strategies, offering a glimpse into the practical side of a...

          On our fourth day at IPB University (IPBU), we had the privilege of joining the Obscura Photography Club for a hands-on photography workshop. The club’s president warmly welcomed us and introduced the fundamentals of photography, explaining how different camera settings influence the final image. We learned about aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, and how these elements work together to capture the perfect shot.           The members of Obscura were eager to share their knowledge and passion for photography. They demonstrated various techniques, such as framing, lighting, and composition, and showed us how to tell a story through a single photograph. It was inspiring to see how they used their cameras to capture the essence of everyday moments.           After the demonstrations, we had the opportunity to try our hand at photography. With the guidance of the Obscura members, we explored th...

            On our third day in Bogor, IPB University (IPBU) organized a special cultural activity for us—the students and faculty of Guimaras State University—to experience the art of traditional batik-making at Handayani Geulis. This visit not only introduced us to a significant aspect of Indonesian heritage but also allowed us to engage hands-on with the craft.           Upon arrival, we were welcomed by the owner of Handayani Geulis, Sri Ratna Handayani Budhie, who shared the rich history and cultural significance of batik. Batik is a traditional Indonesian textile art that involves applying wax to fabric and then dyeing it to create intricate patterns. Each design holds specific meanings; for instance, the “parang” motif symbolizes strength and resilience, often associated with royalty, while the “truntum” pattern represents love and is commonly worn during weddings. These motifs are not just decorative but are steepe...

          Our second day at IPB University (IPBU) in Bogor, Indonesia, marked the official start of our lectures and deeper immersion into the academic environment here. After a whirlwind first day filled with introductions and exploration, we were eager to dive into the curriculum and continue discovering what IPBU has to offer. This day truly set the tone for what promises to be an incredible experience.           We began our day at the IPBU fisheries department, where we kicked off our lectures with an in-depth look at aquaculture. The lecture was both informative and eye-opening, focusing on the early stages of fish life, particularly fish larvae, and the essential role that proper nutrition plays in their growth and development. It was fascinating to explore how the aquaculture industry balances ecological sustainability with food production. The lecture provided a solid foundation for understanding the complexity of the ...

          Our first day at IPB University (IPBU) in Bogor, Indonesia, was a day full of new experiences and unforgettable moments that marked the official start of our exchange program. We were welcomed with a simple yet meaningful ceremony, attended by both IPBU faculty and students.            The day began with a formal welcome, where both the faculty and students of IPBU greeted us with open arms. You could feel the excitement in the air as everyone was eager to get to know each other. After the speeches, we were treated to a lively cultural dance by IPBU students, offering a glimpse into Indonesia’s vibrant traditions. In return, we also performed a cultural presentation from Guimaras, showcasing a piece of our heritage. It was a truly special moment, where both sides shared their cultures and built a sense of mutual respect.           After the cultural exchange, it was time for the rese...