Yogyakarta, September 12, 2026 – The Plant Pests and Diseases Student Association (IMHPT) of the Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), through its Community Service Department, once again organized the “HPT Mengajar #2” (Plant Pests and Diseases Teaching) program at Sekolah Masa Depan on Saturday (September 12, 2026). This event served as an initial step to introduce high school students to university life and the Plant Protection Study Program.
Centered on the theme “From Zero to Plant Hero,” HPT Mengajar #2 was designed to provide fundamental knowledge about plant protection while fostering an appreciation for the importance of sustainable agriculture among participants. Nineteen university students participated in the event, which featured a series of interactive educational activities.
The event was organized into three learning stations, each highlighting different aspects of plant protection. Station 1 (Pest Science) featured a riddle game that encouraged participants to recognize and understand the basics of pest science. Station 2 (Phytopathology) utilized a puzzle game to introduce fundamental concepts regarding plant diseases. Meanwhile, Station 3 (Pest and Disease Control) presented a “Guess the Cause and Effect” game, helping participants understand the relationships between plant-disturbing organisms (OPT), the causes of issues, and their impacts on plants.
Student facilitators staffed each station, delivering basic information on pests, plant diseases, and the control of plant-disturbing organisms. The use of games and interactive activities was intended to make the learning process engaging and to help participants more easily grasp the material.
By involving students as facilitators, the event also provided a platform for IMHPT members to share their knowledge and experience in plant protection with the younger generation. Direct interaction with the students offered an opportunity to highlight the vital role plant protection plays in maintaining agricultural productivity and supporting the sustainability of the agricultural sector. Supported by competent personnel and an interactive learning approach, HPT Mengajar #2 aims to provide participants with fresh insights into the field of plant protection. The event also seeks to spark students’ curiosity and foster a sense of concern regarding issues such as pests and plant diseases, as well as sustainable pest management practices.
Through the HPT Mengajar program, IMHPT strives to introduce high school students to plant protection in an engaging and accessible way. The “From Zero to Plant Hero” spirit is intended to serve as a starting point for participants to explore the world of agriculture, understand the importance of plant protection, and cultivate an interest in sustainable agriculture.
