A successful Farmers Field Day organized by the JU-SIL Project in collaboration with Kansas State University that showcased “Biochar Based Fertilizer (BBF) innovation for wheat production at Dedo Woreda, and the Soya bean Bio-inoculant demonstration at Eladalie Research , Innovation and Agro-Industry Center were held on November 2024.
As part of a six-university consortium, Jimma University is actively participating in the Feed the Future Capacity Building of Ethiopian Agricultural Universities project. This initiative aims to enhance agricultural research, education, and public sector capacity building through improved collaboration and knowledge sharing, with a focus on addressing climate change and advancing food and nutritional security in Ethiopia. The project is funded by USAID under the Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Sustainable Intensification (SIIL) Project.
During the Field Day events, notable guests included Dr. Jemal Abafita, President of Jimma University, along with other university officials, researchers, agricultural experts and local farmers attended. The events provided a platform for farmers and researchers to share findings and discuss the impact of these innovations.
Farmers expressed their enthusiasm for the biochar technology, highlighting its significant role in enhancing wheat productivity. They reported that the cost of production has notably decreased compared to traditional fertilizers, while yields have increased substantially. This dual benefit of reduced costs and improved output has made biochar an attractive option for many farmers.
In their discussions, farmers requested the installation of biochar production technologies at their villages to facilitate easier access to this innovative solution and to further reduce transportation costs associated with conventional fertilizers. They emphasized that local production of biochar would not only streamline their operations but also promote sustainability within the community.
Dr. Jemal Abafita emphasized the university’s commitment to research and community engagement through partnerships with various national and international organizations, highlighting the importance of the JU-SIL project.
Professor Gezahegn Berecha, the principal researcher, outlined the project’s four main objectives: Establishing virtual rooms and computer lab facilities to enhance online course delivery; Developing laboratory facilities to support research and outreach in agri-food systems; Enhancing field research to demonstrate scalable technologies and improve knowledge coordination; Strengthening the capacity of universities and graduates to mitigate the impacts of climate change. Professor Gezahegn noted that the Field Day serves as a critical opportunity to demonstrate these technologies and promote effective coordination among stakeholders.
Jimma University has several collaborative projects undertaken in diversified fields in collaboration with several national and international partners that are helping it achieve its motto-we are in the community
