Abdurrohman, an elderly field school facilitator at 72 years of age, embodies an indomitable spirit. A vegetable farmer by trade, he diligently works to support his family. As a member of a farmer group, he benefits from governmental assistance, including agricultural tools, seeds, herbicides, and chemical fertilisers, which are commonly used on the acidic soils of Mentawai with a pH of 4-6.
Initially, Abdurrohman was sceptical about the use of organic fertilisers in agriculture, believing it to be time-consuming and resource-intensive. However, his perspective began to change after participating in Training of Trainers (TOT) sessions and applying the techniques on his study site and own land. He soon realised that natural fertilisers are readily available in the environment and do not harm the earth. This revelation was a turning point, inspiring him and his fellow field school participants to continue their learning independently. The group, recognising his dedication, appointed him as their chairman.
The produce from the study area, consistently yielding good results, was purchased by participants and locals from Sipora Jaya. Abdurrohman’s commitment to using compost and encouraging others to grow seedlings with organic treatments demonstrated his passion for combating climate change through small, impactful steps.
Eager to expand his knowledge, Abdurrohman learned from other villages, such as Saureinu and Goisooinan, which had successfully implemented straw mulch or dry grass in paddy fields, a method known as no-till mulch. After further training with other facilitators, he shared his insights with fellow farmers like Pak Karpin, who now also uses no-till mulch in his rice fields. Abdurrohman’s dedication is so strong that he expresses anger and disappointment towards farmers who persist in using chemical fertilisers, emphasising that these chemicals destroy the soil’s microorganisms—essential agents created by nature to enrich the soil.
Abdurrohman’s commitment extends beyond formal meetings. He regularly visits the study area during his free time to continue his work. At the multipurpose crop field school, he has taken the initiative to implement his learnings on his own land, inviting local community members to participate. The response has been enthusiastic, with the community engaging in activities such as establishing 1,000 nurseries, which include around 700 multipurpose plant seeds and 300 shoot cutting seedlings, alongside various types of orange tree stems.
One notable project involves creating wooden beds using the Hugelkultur method, where a shallow trench is filled with logs and covered with plant debris and mulch. This method, which Abdurrohman has successfully demonstrated, highlights the principle that no plant material is wasted; everything nature provides can be recycled into fertiliser.
Abdurrohman’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, learning, and community involvement in promoting sustainable agriculture. His efforts not only enhance his own farming practices but also inspire and educate others, fostering a collective movement towards environmentally friendly and resilient farming techniques.
