Strengthening Regional Food Security Through Agricultural Education: Building Sustainable Communities for the Future

Abstract

Regional food security has become one of the most critical issues in the twenty-first century due to climate change, population growth, environmental degradation, and rapid technological transformation. Agriculture remains the backbone of food production and rural economic development, particularly in developing countries such as Indonesia. Sidenreng Rappang Regency (Sidrap), South Sulawesi, is recognized as one of Indonesia's strategic agricultural regions, contributing significantly to national rice production while facing challenges related to climate variability, land-use changes, technological adaptation, and the sustainability of agricultural human resources. Strengthening food security in this region requires more than increasing agricultural productivity; it demands an integrated approach that combines agricultural innovation, education, community empowerment, and sustainable resource management. Educational institutions, particularly universities, play a strategic role in preparing competent human resources capable of developing resilient agricultural systems through research, technology transfer, and community engagement. This article examines the relationship between regional food security, sustainable agriculture, and education by using Sidenreng Rappang as a regional context. It emphasizes the importance of integrating agricultural education with research, innovation, digital technology, and collaborative partnerships among universities, government, industry, and local communities to strengthen regional food security and support the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The study argues that enhancing educational capacity and research-based agricultural innovation is essential for building resilient food systems, improving farmers' livelihoods, and promoting sustainable regional development.