Hyari: Jordan introduced 'smart' agri-systems, projects: Secretary-General of the Ministry of Agriculture, Mohammad Hyari, inaugurated the first international peer-reviewed scientific "Conference on Artificial Intelligence Requirements in Irrigation, Agriculture, and Pathways to Achieving Sustainable Food Security," organized by Irbid National University (INU). The two-day event is attended by researchers and academics from Jordan and several Arab and international countries.
According to Jordan News Agency, Hyari, representing the Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Saeb Khraisat, highlighted the conference's importance amid growing challenges related to water, climate, and food security, alongside rapid advancements in artificial intelligence technologies. He emphasized Jordan's ongoing efforts to enhance food security, which is seen as a national priority interconnected with water security and economic stability, by improving water use efficiency.
Hyari detailed the Kingdom's initiatives, including expanding rainwater harvesting, digitalizing agricultural services, developing national databases, and promoting investment in smart agricultural technologies. The ministry has also implemented digital systems like a food security information management system and smart agricultural counseling platforms to enhance decision-making, increase production efficiency, and minimize food and water losses.
INU President Dr. Majed Abu Zureik stated the conference underscores the university's dedication to supporting applied scientific research and keeping up with advancements in artificial intelligence and smart agriculture. He urged for the development of solutions to tackle the pressing issues of water scarcity, climate change, and food security.
The conference included various scientific and discussion sessions focusing on artificial intelligence applications in agriculture and water management, digital transformation in the agricultural sector, climate change, and sustainable food security. These sessions also examined international experiences in utilizing modern technologies for sustainable development.