The SATREPS team from the Faculty of Agriculture at Universitas Padjadjaran (Unpad) conducted an academic visit to Tsukuba University, Japan, from August 26–29, 2025. This activity was part of the SATREPS project “The Project for Breeding Innovation in Chili Pepper and Tomato to Accelerate Sustainable Vegetable Production in Tropical Regions” a strategic collaboration between Unpad, BRIN, Tsukuba University, Miyagi University, JIRCAS, JST, and JICA.
The visit aimed to enhance research capacity, strengthen international collaboration, and expand academic networks. The agenda included observing laboratories and greenhouses at Tsukuba University, participating in High Resolution Melting (HRM) PCR training, attending scientific seminars, and visiting the Japan International Research Center for Agricultural Sciences (JIRCAS).
Two Master's students from Faperta Unpad's Agronomy program, Alifa Ghaida Zahra and Rumaisa Salma Tsabitah, received HRM PCR training at the Laboratory of the Faculty of Life and Environmental SciencesTsukuba University. On August 28, 2025, a seminar was held featuring presentations from the Unpad faculty team: Nono Carsono, PhD., Farida Damayanti, PhD., Citra Bakti, PhD., Fitri Widiantini, PhD., and Santika Sari, M.P., along with the BRIN research team, Dr. Amy Estiati and Chotimatul Azmi, M.Agr., and Dr. Ken Hoshikawa from JIRCAS.
Subsequently, the team visited JIRCAS for presentations by Dr. Hoshikawa and Dr. Yaoki Namanaka, followed by in-depth discussions and a tour of the research fields. Besides strengthening the collaboration between Unpad and Tsukuba University, this event also opened opportunities for a closer partnership with JIRCAS.
Through the SATREPS project, the research outcomes are expected to support the development of chili pepper and tomato breeding innovations in Indonesia and their broader application. This activity is a significant step for Unpad in strengthening its international role, not only as an educational institution but also as a strategic partner in global research focused on the sustainability of tropical agriculture.
Overall, this activity not only strengthens Unpad's position on the international stage but also makes a concrete contribution to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through innovation, education, and strategic partnerships in agriculture. The visit specifically highlights the correlation with SDG 4: Quality Education by significantly enhancing research capacity and knowledge through High Resolution Melting (HRM) PCR training and scientific seminars. The participation of two Master's students and the presentations from faculty members and researchers are tangible proof of how this international collaboration directly advances the quality of higher education and research at the Unpad Faculty of Agriculture. By facilitating access to the latest technology and strengthening academic networks, this event serves as a concrete example of a global partnership focused on human resource development and innovation, which is the essence of a continuous quality education objective.
Laporan oleh : Zulfa Afifah dan Elfara Khairunnisa
English 
Indonesian