MALANG – As part of the implementation of Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka (MBKM) initiative, Universitas Islam Malang (Unisma) continues to launch various activities and innovations with out-of-the-box creativity.
One such initiative involves developing digital recording and conducting molecular protein and genetic research to breed high-potential Sapudi sheep capable of producing twins.
This research is being conducted by faculty members from Postgraduate and Undergraduate Animal Husbandry Study Programs who have formed a team.
The research team is led by Dr. Ir. Mudawamah, M.Si., IPM, AseanEng, and includes Dr. Ir. Sumartono, M.P., as well as students from Unisma’s Master’s and Undergraduate Animal Husbandry programs.
According to Mudawamah, to develop high-potential Sapudi sheep capable of producing twins, relying solely on morphology is insufficient, as it is impossible to distinguish between female or male sheep with the potential for twins versus those with single offspring.
Therefore, research at the molecular, protein, and genetic levels is necessary to develop methods for the early detection of ewes or rams with the potential to produce twins.
Additionally, the livestock recording process is a crucial component of selection and culling to prevent incorrect choices. Consequently, the superiority of Sapudi sheep will continue to improve.
To make the recording process easier and more flexible, a digital recording system utilizing smartphones has been developed.
Digital recording is supported by a portable digital scale provided to the Livestock Breeding and Forage Unit in Garahan, Jember, and 10 hanging scales that farmers can easily carry with them.
Thus, he hopes that this initiative will enhance the competitiveness of Indonesia’s local livestock.
“This initiative is expected to enhance the competitiveness of Indonesia’s local livestock, specifically the Sapudi sheep with high potential for twin births, as a form of national service by the academic community of Unisma’s Master’s and Bachelor’s programs in Animal Husbandry in the context of MBKM-based tri dharma of higher education,” he concluded. (ads)
