Meet Karolus Ranga, a young farmer from Nualise Village, Wolowaru District, Ende Regency, East Nusa Tenggara. Karolus is part of the Youth Upskilling for Employment in Vegetable Farming project, supported by Ganesha foundation Switzerland, a program that aims to empower young farmers. Formerly a laborer with meager earnings, Karolus underwent a transformative experience after participating in a training program conducted by the Technical Field Officer (TFO) of Yayasan Bina Tani Sejahtera (YBTS), Rozanov. This experience compelled him to transition into a full-time farmer, dedicated to mastering the principles of Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) alongside his peers.

Setting off on their farming journey, Karolus and his companions started growing curly chili, specifically the Laju F1 variety from PT East West Seed Indonesia, in their first season. However, their efforts were met with formidable challenges, as their crops faced relentless attack from pests and diseases. Despite their best efforts, the initial harvest was barely enough to cover the next season’s planting costs. Nevertheless, Karolus and his friends persisted in their farming pursuits without giving up.

Transitioning to the next season, Karolus made a strategic decision to cultivate shallots from seeds (True Shallot Seed), opting for the Lokananta variety. Acknowledging the significant market demand for shallots in his area, Karolus intensified his efforts to improve his farming techniques and nurture the crops.

“I am determined not to let this land go to waste or overrun by weeds, as it is our source of income. I am firmly committed to cultivating a variety of vegetables, particularly those that benefit our community,” affirmed Karolus, underscoring his unwavering dedication to sustainable agriculture and community prosperity.

Karolus and his friends are committed to achieving a brighter future in agriculture. YBTS stood by them, providing unwavering support and guidance, ensuring that their journey in agriculture was not a solitary one.