Dari Rancang Mesin hingga Kunjungi Hatchery Modern, Praktikum Penetasan Mahasiswa Teknologi Produksi Ternak Vokasi Unhas di Sidrap
SIDRAP – Students of the Animal Production Technology Study Program, Faculty of Vocational Studies, Hasanuddin University, conducted a Hatching Practicum in Sidenreng Rappang Regency, applying the Project-Based Learning (PjBL) method. In this practicum, students were tasked with independently designing and building an incubator, then using it directly to hatch poultry eggs.
In addition to designing and using the incubator, students also conducted a field visit to a modern hatchery in Sidrap Regency. This visit aimed to provide students with a realistic understanding of industrial-scale poultry hatching systems, from hatching egg management and modern incubator technology to Day-Old Chick (DOC) quality control.
Through the visit to the modern hatchery, students gained an understanding of the application of automation technology, integrated temperature and humidity control systems, biosecurity management, and an efficient, industry-standard DOC production process. This activity provided a comparison between the simple incubator designed by the students and modern hatching technology used in industry.
During the practicum, students independently carry out the hatching stages, including selecting hatching eggs, regulating incubation temperature and humidity, and candling to monitor embryo development. Students also record and evaluate hatching data, including hatchability and the quality of the chicks produced.
The entire practicum is conducted in accordance with poultry hatchery Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), while adhering to animal welfare, biosecurity, and occupational safety principles. This approach trains students to think critically, systematically, and responsibly in completing learning projects.
Through the Project-Based Learning-Based Hatching Practicum, enriched by a visit to a modern hatchery, students are expected to develop a comprehensive understanding of poultry hatchery technology, both on a small scale and in an industrial setting. This activity provides essential preparation for students in the Animal Production Technology Study Program, Faculty of Vocational Studies, Hasanuddin University, as they prepare for the world of work in the poultry breeding and industrial sectors.
