One day hands-on training on “banana fibre extraction, value addition and vermicomposting” was organised by Science and Technology Intervention in North Eastern Region-Technology Facilitation Centre (STINER-TFC) under School of Agricultural Sciences: Nagaland University (SAS:NU) on July 7 at Living Bible College, Ayinato, Vihokhu Village, Niuland district.
A press release by STINER-TFC stated that the training was aimed to provide participants with practical and experiential learning opportunities and application of knowledge in real scenarios.
The training also aimed to equip participants with the necessary skills and knowledge to engage in banana fibre extraction, a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional textile production and craft making and conversion of agricultural waste into income generation enriched vermicompost.
During the technical session, the participants were introduced to the entire process of fibre-extraction, which included cutting of pseudo stem into standard sizes, removing the sheath and bark, extraction of fibre, washing, drying, polishing, braiding and finally stitching the refined fibre into various handicraft products. Vermicompost, an eco-friendly approach to convert waste into wealth, was also practically demonstrated.
Chairperson of the programme, pro-vice chancellor, SAS: NU and project in-charge, STINER-TFC, professor Akali Sema highlighted the role and mandate of STINER which was aimed to create awareness about entrepreneurial atmosphere among the youths, women group and aspiring entrepreneurs.
Speaking on the scope and utility of banana fibre and vermicompost, project assistant, STINER-TFC, Bikram Ghimere highlighted about the potential of banana as a plant and how the plant can be utilized in various ways to generate income.
In a welcome address, principal, Living Bible College, Kiyekhe Kiba thanked the STINER team and hoped that the experts would help the students gain valuable knowledge during the course of the training.
The programme commenced with an invocation prayer by Dr. Nitoli Sheqi, student remark was delivered by Atoi Achumi and the vote of thanks by Dr. Otto S. Awomi. A total of 65 participants attended the training programme.