Recognize the threat of FAW Through the Farmers Field School: Learning Together with Corn Farmers in Tonasa Village, Takalar Regency, South Sulawesi

Takalar, September 15, 2025 – The threat of Fall Armyworm (FAW) continues to worry corn farmers in Indonesia, including those in Tonasa Village, Takalar Regency, South Sulawesi. This small pest is known for its voracity and ability to spread quickly. If not properly controlled, FAW attacks can reduce corn yields by up to 60%. To address this challenge, Edufarmers Foundation, through the Bertani program, held a Farmers Field School (FFS) in Tonasa Village, Takalar Regency, South Sulawesi (15/09). 

With the theme “Recognizing the Threat of FAW and Its Control,” the activity engaged Pioneer Farmers and farmer groups as a hands-on learning forum in the field. The learning process was structured systematically, starting with a pre-test to assess farmers’ initial knowledge, followed by delivery of the main material and discussions, then a post-test, and closed with a joint evaluation session. 

The main focus of the training was how to detect FAW attacks early on corn crops and the right steps to control them. One key point emphasized was the importance of control during the egg-hatching stage or when the larvae are still young. At this stage, the use of insecticides with active ingredients such as Methomyl and Emamectin Benzoate has proven most effective when applied at the right time. 

For farmers, this new knowledge has become a powerful weapon in protecting their corn crops. Nureni Dg. Ngasih, one of the Pioneer Farmers in Tonasa Village, Takalar Regency, shared her thoughts on the benefits of the activity. 

“This activity is really beneficial for me and the farmers here. We learned that FAW control should be carried out early, and the best time is in the late afternoon to achieve maximum results,” she said. 

Armed with knowledge about FAW pests, early detection, and timely control, farmers in Tonasa Village, Takalar Regency are now better prepared to face the threat of FAW. This step is expected to help maintain stable corn productivity, ensure optimal harvests, and improve farming families’ welfare. 

The Farmers Field School (FFS) Bertani is a tangible example of how practical education can be directly experienced by farmers in the field. This becomes an essential foundation for creating resilient and adaptive farmers in the face of various challenges. With a spirit of togetherness, it is hoped that corn farming in Tonasa Village, Takalar Regency will continue to grow more advanced, productive, and sustainable. 

Through the Bertani program, Edufarmers Foundation, with full support from Benih Berkah Berseri (BBB) and AquaBloom as sponsors, reaffirms its commitment to continuously stand by farmers. This collaboration is proof that education, synergy, and concrete action can strengthen the capacity of Indonesian farmers. 

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