Students of the Faculty of Vocational Studies, Hasanuddin University, conducted field practice on cattle fattening at the Harapan Talawe Livestock Group.

Sidrap – Students of the Animal Production Technology Study Program, Faculty of Vocational Studies, Hasanuddin University, conducted a month-long cattle fattening field practice at the Harapan Talawe Livestock Group in Panca Lautan District, Sidenreng Rappang Regency (Sidrap). This practice was part of the Ruminant Livestock Production Practice course.

This fattening practice aimed to provide students with hands-on experience in managing a modern smallholder beef cattle business, encompassing feed management, animal health, and growth monitoring. Throughout the practice, students implemented:

A high average ADG (Average Daily Gain) of 0.6–0.7 kg/day, exceeding regional standards and demonstrating effective feed quality and management.

A high-quality local feed formulation, utilizing fermented straw, bran, molasses, and minerals, was tailored to the nutritional needs of beef cattle.

A structured health recording system, with daily medical records, maintained a low cattle mortality rate (<2%).

Daily weight monitoring and routine growth evaluations provided technical feedback for improving daily practices and optimizing harvest times.

During the internship, students receive direct guidance from livestock group leaders and field extension officers. With this assistance, they not only put lecture theory into practice but also understand the operational standards of a cattle fattening business that adapt to local conditions.

This activity is expected to improve students' technical and managerial skills, as well as develop professional, disciplined, and responsible work ethic. The full support of the Harapan Talawe Livestock Group also opens up opportunities for expanding collaboration with the Faculty of Vocational Studies, Hasanuddin University, to produce superior, employable graduates in the beef cattle sector.