Activities-
Since May 2026 and continuing to the present, a research and field evaluation activity entitled “Evaluation of Second-Generation Shallot Bulb Production from True Seed” has been carried out in Ulu Ere District, Bantaeng. This activity involves 11 participants, including the students Nur Daflistiani Pasmar and A. Saskia Nur Istifha, and is supported by international collaboration with Tomorani Hirano, Ph.D. from the University of Miyazaki and Prof. JosĂ© LuĂs Trevizan Chiomento from the University of Passo Fundo.
The activity was designed to evaluate the growth and productivity of shallot bulbs produced from true shallot seed in the second generation. True shallot seed is an important alternative to the conventional use of seed bulbs. It requires less planting material, is easier to distribute, and has the potential to reduce the risk of disease transmission through bulbs. However, to make this technology more reliable, further evaluation is needed, especially on how bulbs derived from true seed perform in the next production cycle.
The main objective of this activity is to assess the productivity and growth performance of shallot bulbs originating from seed-based planting material. Through field observations, the activity examines important agronomic traits such as plant establishment, vegetative growth, bulb formation, bulb uniformity, and yield potential. These observations are essential to determine whether second-generation bulbs from true seed can be used as high-quality planting material for future shallot cultivation.
This activity also plays an important role in strengthening the shallot seed system. For farmers, planting material quality directly affects crop success. Healthy and uniform bulbs can support better field performance, while poor-quality planting material may lead to uneven growth and lower yield. Therefore, evaluating second-generation bulbs is not only a scientific activity, but also a practical step toward improving farmer access to reliable shallot seed sources.
The involvement of students in this activity provides valuable field-based learning. They are not only collecting data, but also learning how research can solve real agricultural problems. At the same time, international collaboration brings broader scientific perspectives, allowing local shallot research in Bantaeng to connect with global expertise in crop production and seed technology.
This activity supports Sustainable Development Goal 1: No Poverty, because better planting material can improve crop productivity and help stabilize farmer income. It also supports Sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education, as it provides students and participants with direct scientific learning in the field. Furthermore, the collaboration with international partners reflects Sustainable Development Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals, showing that agricultural innovation becomes stronger when local research, education, and global cooperation work together. Through this ongoing evaluation, second-generation shallot bulbs from true seed are being studied as a promising pathway for sustainable shallot production. The results are expected to support better seed management, stronger farmer livelihoods, and more resilient horticultural development in Bantaeng.
