Benjamas Kumsueb
VISITOR’S VOICE
Interview with Ms. Benjamas Kumsueb
Department of Agriculture, Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Thailand/
Ph.D. Candidate, Agriculture Resource Management Program, Chiang Mai University funded by National Research Council of Thailand
The Research Contribution to Organic and Conventional Cassava in Thailand
Please tell us about your research.
My research assesses organic and conventional cassava productivity in Yasothon Province, Thailand. Cassava is one of the top three commodities contributing both quantity and value to Thailand’s agricultural sector, with a total of 506,000 farming households in the cassava supply chain. In seeking to better understand the transformation from conventional to organic cassava production systems, I identify key factors influencing the change, focusing specifically on the yield gap between the two systems. Finally, I use a simulation model to provide site-specific technologies to farmers of both production systems to improve cassava productivity.
How many research themes do you have?
My research consists of 1) analyzing key socioeconomic factors, biophysical properties, and crop management practices related to the transformation of production practices and yield gaps by using function models; and 2) developing DSSAT crop models to provide site-specific recommendations for cassava production practices that are appropriate to each farm’s environment and management conditions. The hope is to facilitate farmers’ decision making to maximize the use of farm resources and reap the most benefits.
Why do you find your research topic interesting?
Cassava is a suitable crop for resource-poor environments because it can succeed with low inputs of fertilizers, water, and farm labor. However, because it is most often cultivated as a monocrop, its production impacts biodiversity and deteriorates soil quality. Productivity improvement and technological solutions could enhance both conventional and organic production systems. Integrated systems not only produce high yields, but also enhance the quality of soil and reduce negative impacts on the environment, thus contributing to sustainability.
How did you get started in your research and how did you come to focus on your current research?
I have been researching how to improve crop productivity for more than ten years. For my PhD dissertation, I focus on cassava because this crop has a wide range of uses, from food and animal feed to energy. Nowadays, cassava supply is lower than the demand and Thailand is seeking supply from other countries. Both farmers and factories need upgraded practices and technical innovations to be assured of continued growth.
Have you had any difficulties in putting together the results of your research into a research paper or book?
My research is conducted in the field working with farmers. This requires a significant amount of time to collect, organize, and analyze the data. It is important to advance both theories and techniques. Therefore, writing is a time-consuming and iterative process. Every now and then, I have to remind myself not to give up. I know that I am not perfect, but I do my best along my route and responsibility.
Can you share with us an episode about any influential people, things, and places you have encountered whilst doing your research?
I had a chance to join a training course on organic farming as the lecturer on the topic “nutrient management to increase organic cassava” in Yasothon Province. The participating farmers believe organic practices can provide a good livelihood and sustain their soils. I could sense their ambition to switch their practices despite most people in their community pointing out the disadvantages of such a switch. The organic farmers want to prove that the practices can be successful, and they hope that people in the community will change their minds. From my side as a researcher, I can support them with knowledge and be their partner. We cannot predict our success, but we can continuously work toward it.
Which books or people have influenced you?
I often read various kinds of positive thinking books to boost my mind, to move forward, and to move out from my comfort zone and routine way of thinking. It helps me to find new ways of mobilizing myself to be a good, friendly, and active person. I like Leadership and Self-Deception: Getting out of the Box (in Thai). I love to read motivational and positive quotes. People who have influenced me are Nelson Mandela, Walt Disney, and Benjamin Franklin, whose quotes are powerful. They easily support and push me to keep going and move forward.
What is your ideal image of a researcher?
To be a good researcher, a student must reach the required knowledge base and gain experience in the research study area. A good researcher works in a collaborative way, but is also able to prepare and manage research independently with a creative approach to complex problems. In addition, good researchers write, present, and publish academic papers to the public.
What is your must-have gear for field research and writing?
The academic student should be knowing and inquiring; they should synthesize knowledge to solve problems. They should seek solutions to fulfill research outcomes by continuously planning, acting, observing, and learning in professional practice. I am striving to achieve those qualifications every day.
What books can you recommend to a younger people?
I would like to recommend Introduction to Research Method, which explores the nature of being a researcher, its challenges, and ethical considerations relating to various fields. This book offers young researchers a solid foundation from which they can make decisions about the next steps in their research path.
What would you say to people who want to become researchers?
To become a researcher, we should have a strong interest in learning, demonstrate a strong work ethic, and have a desire to work in various working environments. We must have good communication skills and be focused. We should also have advanced knowledge of one or more specialized areas.
What ambitions do you have for the future?
I will continue to develop my scholarship and research career. I would like to improve my knowledge and skill and enhance my areas of specialization. I am an agricultural researcher. Today agricultural systems must be concerned with the maximum use of resources to maximize profit. Therefore, people move out of agriculture. How can we support people to return to agriculture? It is the main source of food and income for many people and the economic sector that employs the most people. I hope that my work can benefit farmers and the sector as a whole.
(July 2022)
Reference
Benjamas Kumsueb is a Guest Research Associate of CSEAS
from March – June 2022