Figure 8 : Photo session with all involved parties during the Solar Dryer Rack Handover Programme .
Figure 7 : Handover session of the solar dryer rack .
It involves the preparation of feed formulations , the construction of drying racks , and the provision of education and demonstration to farmers . In this project , pellet formulation involved the use of Water Hyacinth and Giant Salvinia as the main ingredients with the addition of commercial pellets at an optimised ratio . This formulation process is crucial as it ensures that additional pellets produced will have the necessary nutrient content required by the fish . The developed solar drying racks were handed over to the fish farming community at Lake Tok Uban , Kelantan ( see Figure 7 ).
The programme also provided education and demonstration to the farmers on how to use the solar drying racks . The farmers were given detailed training on how to operate and maintain the drying racks . They were provided with practical guidance on the usage and upkeep of the drying racks to ensure their proper functioning . Additionally , they were also briefed on the benefits of using solar drying racks to improve the efficiency of drying fish feed pellets .
Previously , farmers attempted to manually produce dry pellets from chicken intestines , but this process was ineffective and attracted flies . The assessment study during the drying rack handover programme indicated that most farmers had never been exposed to solar drying racks before , and they were looking forward to applying this new concept . Participants also requested the development of cheaper drying equipment . Overall , the study showed interest and need for technology that could enhance the drying process in fish farming , as well as a desire for greater support and education in the use of this new technology . This programme also served as a platform for farmers to exchange opinions and experiences regarding the use of this new technology ., Farmers not only received equipment but also received support and guidance to integrate this new technology into their daily processes . This ensures that the solar drying racks are not just unused tools but truly valuable assets in their efforts to improve sustainable and efficient fish feed production .
Urban Agrischool Programme : ‘ Agricilik Pertanian Bandaran ’
An Urban Agrischool programme , ‘ Agricilik Pertanian Bandaran ’, was held on May 7 , 2024 , at Taski ABIM Saidatina Fatimah Sri Serdang , Selangor . A total of 33 students and fiveteachers of Taski ABIM were introduced to hydroponics by five lecturers and six undergraduate students from UPM .
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