PENANG, 9 Sept. 2013 - Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dato’ Dr. Omar Osman, and the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Student Affairs and Development), Professor Dr. Adnan Hussein, visited the USM Mushroom House site managed by the Agriculture Graduate Entrepreneurs Club (MyAgrosis).

MyAgrosis was launched by Prime Minister Dato’ Sri Mohd Najib Tun Abdul Razak on 17 December 2011.

“I am pleased with their success, particularly with the participation of students in a programme like this and expect it to expand and develop, even after they have graduated,” said Omar.

A total of 401 students took part in entrepreneurial activities through the MyAgrosis Club, mentored by those skilled in this field such as the Farmers’ Organisation Authority (FOA) in collaboration with Seri Pulau Area Farmers Organisation which brought their expertise in mushroom cultivation to USM.

Omar added that USM will seek support from various other parties in providing exposure, education and encouragement for more USM students to participate in activities like this.

Mushroom cultivation and the Mushroom House construction were overseen by the Centre for Entrepreneurship and Students Personality Development.

MyAgrosis Club manages the activities related to the Mushroom House which is also involved in offering agricultural courses from time to time.

According to Omar, in 2012, the Ministry of Agriculture and Agro-Based Industry has approved RM50,000 for the construction site, the construction of the Mushroom House, and the provision of 6,000 blocks of mushroom spawn that is expected to earn RM16,000 from the 1,800 kg mushrooms when harvested.

Apart from managing the Mushroom House, MyAgrosis is also operating the K-Shoppe store at USM Desasiswa Tekun Hostel Entrepreneur Square. - Translation: Yong Check Yoon