Ms. Mehreen Ayaz Receives Competitive National Research Award for Doctoral Dissertation Research (PDD) 2026

Warm congratulations are extended to Ms. Mehreen Ayaz for her outstanding achievement in securing a prestigious national research grant from the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology for 2026 under the highly competitive “Doctoral Dissertation Research (PDD)” category. This recognition highlights her dedication, innovation, and promising contribution to sustainable agricultural development.

Ms. Ayaz’s awarded research project entitled “White Mealybug Pests (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) on Palm Plants and Their Biological Control Techniques Using Parasitoids and Essential Oils”. The study aims to understanding the pest and developing safe, biological alternatives for controlling it in palm cultivation systems., supporting a more sustainable and eco-friendly agricultural production.   This remarkable accomplishment was made possible under the expert supervision of Professor Agustin Zarkani, Professor Dwinardi Apriyanto, and Professor Nanik Setyowati, whose guidance and mentorship have played a crucial role in shaping the research direction and ensuring its scientific rigor. The Ministry of Education, Science and Technology Doctoral Dissertation Research (PDD) is known for fostering innovative ideas from Doctoral students to complete their dissertation in universities across the country. Being selected for this award is a testament to Ms. Mehreen Ayaz’s academic excellence and her potential to contribute meaningful solutions to current agricultural challenges.   This achievement not only brings pride to her academic community but also inspires fellow students and young researchers to pursue impactful research. We look forward to the successful implementation and outcomes of her project in advancing sustainable vegetable production.