Sharjah Delegation Led By Dr. Khalifa Musabeh Al Tunaiji Visits University Of Bologna For Agricultural Research Collaboration

A delegation from Sharjah, led by Dr. Khalifa Musabeh Al Tunaiji, recently visited the University of Bologna. This visit aimed to enhance scientific collaboration and share expertise in sustainable agriculture, livestock health, and beekeeping. The group explored innovative Italian practices in greenhouses and smart farming, supported by advanced technologies and artificial intelligence.

The delegation included academics from the University of Al Dhaid, such as Dr. Rabiha Sebousi, Dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine, and Prof. Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Saadi from the College of Agriculture. Specialists in agriculture and animal production also participated, representing the Department of Agriculture and Livestock and "Ektifa."

During their visit, the delegation examined several key colleges and research centres at the University of Bologna. These included the Big Data Innovation and Research Excellence Centre (BI-REX), the Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences (DISTAL), and the Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences (DIMEVET). They reviewed cutting-edge technologies for tracking food products and analysing agricultural data using artificial intelligence.

The group also investigated research on agriculture, plant diseases, their prevention, and livestock health. This exploration provided insights into contemporary methods for enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability.

Discussions between Sharjah's delegation and the University of Bologna focused on potential joint research projects. Areas of interest included honey bee apiaries, agricultural production improvements, wheat strain enhancement, and modern farming technologies. They also considered student exchanges and joint training programmes to foster deeper collaboration.

Dr. Khalifa Musabeh Al Tunaiji shared an overview of Sharjah's initiatives for sustainable organic food security during the tour. He also assessed research and academic programmes at the University of Al Dhaid related to agriculture and veterinary medicine.

Strengthening International Partnerships

This visit represents a strategic move towards forming scientific partnerships between Sharjah and international universities like Bologna. Such collaborations aim to bolster Sharjah's status as a regional leader in sustainable agriculture, veterinary medicine, and beekeeping.

The University of Bologna is renowned as one of the oldest and most prestigious institutions globally. Establishing ties with such a university enhances Sharjah's position in these vital sectors.

The discussions highlighted opportunities for joint efforts in research areas crucial to both parties' interests. These efforts are expected to yield significant benefits for sustainable agriculture practices in Sharjah.

With inputs from WAM