PT Gunung Madu Plantations (GMP), in collaboration with the Sumatra Institute of Technology (Institut Teknologi Sumatera/ITERA), has launched the “Sekolah Tebu” (Sugarcane School) program for its Independent Partner Farmers. The opening ceremony was held on September 9, 2026, at the Public Centre, Site A. The program is part of the company’s efforts to enhance farmers’ competencies in sugarcane cultivation through competency-based training, while preparing them to adapt to technological advancements and future challenges in the plantation sector.
The program is attended by 15 Independent Partner Farmers and six employees from PT GMP’s Partnership Division. The training is designed to comprise 26 sessions over 11 weeks and is scheduled to conclude in January 2027. Through this series of learning activities, participants are expected to broaden their knowledge and improve their skills in managing sugarcane plantations more effectively.The collaboration with ITERA plays an important role in implementing the program, particularly in strengthening farmers’ capabilities through structured learning. The training is expected to help farmers move beyond relying solely on years of practical experience by equipping them with a stronger understanding of sugarcane cultivation to support the development of their farming businesses.
In his remarks, PT GMP Director Mr. Jack Chong Seng Wai emphasized the importance of farmer regeneration and succession planning as the Independent Partner Program continues to expand. He highlighted that the sustainability of the partnership program depends on preparing the next generation of farmers to ensure that sugarcane plantation management can continue and grow in the future.Future generations of farmers are expected to combine practical field experience with adequate knowledge of cultivation techniques. Openness to technological developments is also essential, enabling farmers to adapt to changing conditions and implement increasingly effective cultivation methods. In addition, the ability to share knowledge with fellow farmers is important in promoting collective learning and improving competencies across the farming community.
The “Sekolah Tebu” program is expected to serve as a learning platform for Independent Partner Farmers to develop their capabilities, strengthen their technical skills, and prepare for the challenges facing the sugarcane plantation sector. The knowledge gained throughout the training is expected to be applied in their day-to-day cultivation activities, delivering tangible benefits to the management of their respective plantations.Through the synergy between PT GMP, ITERA, and Independent Partner Farmers, the program is expected not only to improve human resource quality in the plantation sector but also to strengthen the sustainability of the partnership. Competency development and farmer regeneration are essential steps toward ensuring the continuity of sugarcane farming businesses and supporting the future growth of PT GMP’s Independent Partner Program.
