Thailand’s Youth: Games Boost Rice Farming Knowledge
Thailand is taking a novel approach to preserving its rich agricultural heritage: gamification. In an innovative partnership, the Digital Economy Promotion Agency (Depa), the Rice Department, agricultural technology company GetKaset Co., Ltd., and board game developer Juadaijuadee Co., Ltd. (Jua Studio) are sowing the seeds of rice farming knowledge in a new generation through engaging digital games.
This groundbreaking initiative aims to make learning about rice cultivation fun and accessible for young people, fostering a deeper understanding of this crucial staple crop. Instead of traditional lectures or textbooks, this program leverages the power of interactive gaming to capture the attention of younger audiences and instill a passion for agriculture.
Depa President and Chief Executive Nuttapon Nimmanphatcharin emphasized the strategic importance of this collaboration, stating, “The collaboration…aligns with our objectives as games can effectively disseminate knowledge about proper rice cultivation processes to entrepreneurs, young farmers, and the public.” Recognizing the captivating nature of games, Nimmanphatcharin highlighted their ability to make learning enjoyable and readily available, particularly for young people often immersed in the digital world.
This partnership represents a synergistic blend of expertise. GetKaset, a company focused on integrating technology with agriculture, plays a crucial role in translating complex agricultural knowledge into easily digestible information. GetKaset Chief Executive Thunyathorn Junyavoraluck explained the company’s commitment to empowering Thai farmers through knowledge and innovation, facilitated by technology and effective communication tools. This collaborative effort ensures the game content is not just entertaining but also grounded in accurate and practical agricultural practices.
The creative engine behind this project is Jua Studio, a board game developer known for its innovative and educational games. Jua Studio Director Akaphop Chantarasrivongs explained the studio’s focus on using board games as a medium for agricultural education. This hands-on approach allows players of all ages to learn about farming in an immersive and engaging environment. By simulating resource management and strategic planning, the games provide a practical understanding of the complexities involved in rice cultivation.
The first fruit of this partnership is QuestKaset: RiceStory, a board game that plunges players into the world of Thai rice farming. The game explores traditional farming practices, the nuances of selecting suitable rice varieties, and the intricate balancing act of resource management. It offers players a taste of the challenges and rewards of rice cultivation, fostering an appreciation for the hard work and knowledge required to bring this essential grain to the table.
Furthermore, Jua Studio has ambitious plans to extend the reach of QuestKaset beyond the board game format. The characters and narrative of RiceStory are poised to expand into other media, including comic books, animated series, and collectible merchandise. This transmedia strategy will further solidify the game’s impact and broaden its appeal, reaching an even wider audience with its message about the importance of rice and sustainable agriculture.
This initiative is more than just a game; it’s a testament to the power of innovation in education. By harnessing the appeal of digital gaming, Thailand is cultivating a new generation of agriculturally aware citizens and potentially inspiring future rice farmers, ensuring the long-term sustainability of this vital sector. This playful approach to learning could very well serve as a model for other nations seeking to engage youth in traditional industries and secure a future for their agricultural heritage.
