JASTECA ‘’Postharvest Technology Programme’’ in Thailand to benefit agriculture sector
View(s):The Japan Sri Lanka Technical Cultural Association (JASTECA) in collaboration with ABK & AOTS Alumni Association (Thailand) has organised a seminar/study-tour titled ‘’Postharvest Technology Programme’’ in Thailand to enhance knowledge and practical skills of planters about latest technologies involved in harvesting, planting, packing, and delivery methods associated with agriculture, the organisation said.
Applications have been invited from the executives, senior managers, professionals and owners of harvesting companies associated with the plantation sector for this part-funded ‘’Postharvest Technology Programme’’, which will be conducted in Thailand from 17th – 21st February, 2014, JASTECA said.
Applications have to be forwarded to the JASTECA office before 03rd February 2014. Interested applicants could send an e-mail to jaspres@itmin.net to obtain applications and further information.
“From ancient times, Thailand has been an agricultural based economy and is reputed for exporting various crops worldwide. Whilst rice is the most important crop, export of tropical fruits such as pineapples, mangos, durians, etc have gained ground significantly. Thai cultivators have gained in knowledge and skills mainly through trial and error methods, and have developed well-tested strategies and technologies for planting, packing, harvesting and delivery. Their efforts have helped to establish Thailand as leading agriculture based economy in the world,” the statement said.
It said the JASTECA / AOTS programme will enable Sri Lankan harvesters to study the procedures and technologies used in Thailand and contribute more effectively towards our economic growth.
This ‘’Postharvest Technology Programme’’, is designed to increase awareness among participants relating to the latest technologies involved in harvesting. A one-day seminar will be conducted by a reputed Thai expert who will lecture on, “How to reduce post harvest losses’’. Among the topics discussed here would be the biological aspects of fruits and vegetables after harvest; Maturity Index, Harvesting and Quality; Produce preparation, Diseases and Insect control ; Packaging and Cooling and also features relating to Storage and transportation. Participants will be able to visit various successful companies which are processing fruits and vegetables in Thailand, which is expected to benefit them immensely.