Growing interest in horticulture in recent years has coincided with international efforts to combat global warming and climate change, and their potentially disastrous consequences for food security worldwide.
Since horticulture emphasises the cultivation of high-value crops in small-scale settings, it contributes to environmental conservation by promoting methods that minimise agriculture’s adverse impact on natural habitats.
Accordingly, increased public awareness about the virtues of horticulture together with incentives to boost community participation will contribute significantly towards achieving the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Quest International University (QIU), a socially and environmentally conscious institute of higher learning, is naturally committed to climate action and the SDGs as crucial initiatives in assuring a sustainable future for humankind.
This commitment was in full display most recently at Bengkel Hortikultur II – the second workshop on horticulture organised by the Faculty of Integrated Life Sciences (FILS) in collaboration with the Women’s Development Department (JPW) of Perak.
Held on campus on 21 October, the workshop – divided into three modules – focused on the fundamentals of hydroponics and providing participants with the practical knowledge of setting up a mini-hydroponic model. Consequently, it addressed three key SDGs: No. 2 – zero hunger; No. 12 – responsible consumption and production; and No. 13 – climate action.
The first two modules of the workshop on hydroponic cultivation and bio-organic fertilisers, respectively, were led by Dr Teh Chui Yao from the School of Applied Sciences. Ms Hemalatha Murugaiah, affiliated with the School of Biological Sciences, conducted the third module on agricultural applications of eco-enzymes.
Eager participants learned about the types of hydroponic systems, suitable crops to grow hydroponically, factors that influence crop growth, and common challenges in hydroponic farming and their solutions.
Additionally, they learned about bio-fertilisers and their eco-friendly nature, and how using them can minimise chemicals in agriculture. They also learned about the role of eco-enzymes as natural fertilisers and pesticides that are proven to improve plant health.
Kudos to our passionate FILS academics for shining a light on this promising solution to global food insecurity in the decades to come! We look forward to more such events that tackle the most pressing challenges facing humanity today.
