BSc Forestry students from Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA) participated in field practical activities at Tanzania Tree Seed Agency (TTSA) where they learned various tasks. The training aimed to enhance practical skills among forestry students in the road toward creating quality forestry students who will lead to significant contributions of the forest sector to the national economy.
On the photo above are forestry students with Dr. Ernest Mauya at Tanzania Tree Seed Agency (TTSA)
Seed Collection: The students learned how to collect seeds from different tree species. They were taught how to identify the right time to collect seeds, the right tools to use, and how to handle the seeds to avoid damage.
Seed Processing: The students learned how to process the collected seeds to remove any impurities and to ensure that the seeds are viable. They were taught how to use different seed processing equipment and how to handle the seeds during the process.
The photo above shows students processing seeds to remove impurities in one of the machines at TTSA
Seed Storage: The students learned how to store the processed seeds to maintain their viability. They were taught how to identify the right storage conditions, the right containers to use, and how to monitor the seeds to ensure that they remain viable.
On the photo above shows a students with well stored seeds ready for selling
Seed Laboratory Test: The students learned how to test the quality of the seeds in the laboratory. They were taught how to use different laboratory equipment and how to interpret the results of the tests.
Students performing various seed laboratory test at TTSA seed laboratories
Tree Nursery Activities: The students learned how to propagate trees in the nursery. They were taught how to prepare the nursery beds, how to sow the seeds, how to transplant the seedlings, and how to take care of the seedlings.
A photo above shows various nursery activities taking place at TTSA
Sales of Seeds and Seedlings: The students learned how to market the seeds and seedlings. They were taught how to identify potential customers, how to price the seeds and seedlings, and how to negotiate with customers.
In conclusion, the field practical activities by BSc Forestry students from Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA) done at Tanzania Tree Seed Agency (TTSA) were aimed at enhancing practical skills among forestry students. The training provided the students with hands-on experience in seed collection, seed processing, seed storage, seed laboratory test, tree nursery activities, and sales of seeds and seedlings. These skills will be useful in their future careers as forestry professionals, and they will contribute to the development of the forest sector in the country.