Monday, September 1, 2025, was a joyous occasion for the Agricultural Training of Salatiga (KPTT). On that day, KPTT celebrated its 60th anniversary. Some people were surprised that KPTT was still standing strong and serving the field of agriculture and animal husbandry. In fact, a former director of KPTT, Father Bentvelzen, S.J., who had served at KPTT for 25 years, was surprised that KPTT still exists today. It is a miracle.
For this 60th anniversary, KPTT chose the theme “Weaving Harmony with Nature, Fellow Human Beings, and God.” This theme emphasizes explicitly that KPTT is not just a place to learn about farming and animal husbandry, but also a place to build harmonious relationships with nature, fellow human beings, and God. The basis for this theme is the call made in the encyclical Laudato Si and the Universal Apostolic Preferences (UAP). In fact, since 2023, KPTT has established itself as a hub for learning about human ecological spirituality. The word ‘harmony’ aims to emphasize to everyone that the balance of our relationships with nature, others, and God cannot be separated. The three must be in harmony and cannot be separated from each other.
Anniversary Celebration of KPTT
The anniversary celebration of KPTT is divided into three parts: a family gathering, an alumni meeting, and a final mass to mark the occasion. The family gathering is dedicated to KPTT employees and their families, as well as to students currently enrolled in courses and internships until August 30, 2025. Participants engaged in three main activities: a healthy walk, planting cloves to symbolize KPTT’s 60th anniversary, and various competitions with door prizes, all aimed at fostering family bonds. The joyful faces of participants reflected the gratitude and happiness experienced at KPTT.
The alumni meeting, held on August 31, saw a limited turnout mainly from alumni of Purwodadi, Bawen, Bandungan, Malang, and Manado. This reunion brought joy and nostalgia as alumni reminisced about their time studying at KPTT. Many expressed gratitude for the education received, whether for one year or three months, noting its strong influence on their lives. Many alumni remain active in agriculture and livestock. One representative, Mr. Teguh, shared his pride in his education at KPTT and how it has enabled him to work alongside agricultural students from Brawijaya University, as well as his active role in social and economic development in his parish.
The 60th anniversary concluded with a mass led by Father Paulus Wiryono Priyotamtama, accompanied by Fathers Petrus Sunu Hardiyanta and Fransiskus Asisi Sugiarta. The altar was decorated with fruits and vegetables harvested by KPTT. At the end of the Mass, guests were invited to take home the harvested produce as a blessing. Father Wir expressed gratitude for KPTT’s ongoing service to many, noting his past role as director and ongoing interest in KPTT’s mission.
Staring at the Future of KPTT
During the anniversary of KPTT, an important event to celebrate is the change in leadership. For the past nine years, KPTT has been led by Pater F. A. Sugiarta, S. J., has made continuous progress, now serving many young people. The number of participants in various activities has significantly increased from 615 participants in 2021 to 3,956 participants in 2024.
Another key point of gratitude is KPTT’s independence. Unlike before, when it relied heavily on foreign funds, KPTT is now focused on becoming self-sufficient. To achieve this, KPTT is enhancing its production and marketing activities to secure enough funding for its operations and employees.
KPTT aims to be a leading institution for agricultural and animal husbandry education while promoting ecological spirituality and emphasizing a harmonious connection between nature, others, and God. KPTT seeks collaboration with those interested in advancing agriculture, animal husbandry, and youth development. Everyone is invited to participate in helping KPTT achieve its future goals.
Contributor: F. Antonius Dieng Karnedi, S.J.
