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Zayed International Foundation for the Environment stimulates research and innovation with the launch of a pioneering agro-educational initiative
Zayed International Foundation for the Environment collaborates with the Adi Shankara Institute of Engineering and Technology to launch a pioneering agro-educational initiative in India
- Advancing Sustainable Agriculture through Agro-Educational Initiatives was launched to celebrate World Environment Day 2024
The Zayed International Foundation for the Environment demonstrated its environmental stewardship on World Environment Day 2024 with the announcement of a collaborative project aimed at promoting environmental education to address global climate challenges.
In partnership with the Adi Shankara Group of Institutions in Kerala, India, the Zayed International Foundation for the Environment announced a pioneering agro-educational initiative aimed at holistically integrating innovative and sustainable agricultural practices with education in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
To achieve sustainable food security, promote innovation, and stimulate employment by building human and institutional capacity, the pilot project will harness the potential of viable AI-based technologies to assist farmers and accelerate sustainable organic farming of vegetables and food grains. The project is also focused on water conservation, protection of biodiversity, and promoting self-sufficiency in local food production to create a balanced and sustainable environment that benefits both the community and the ecosystem. The initiative also aims to engage youth in addressing critical environmental challenges and build the next generation of environmental changemakers.
The goals and priorities of Advancing Sustainable Agriculture through Agro-Educational Initiatives introduced virtually by Prof. Dr. Mohammed Ahamed Bin Fahad, Chairman of the Zayed International Foundation for the Environment. Prof. Dr. Bin Fahad said the initiative will encourage students to develop technological solutions in agriculture aligned with the UN SDGs and engage in market research through the Adi Shankara Business Incubation Centre.
On ground, the project was launched at the Adi Shankara Institute of Engineering and Technology (ASIET) in Kerala, India, in the presence of Chief Guest Dr. R Kamalahar (IFS), Chief Conservator of Forests and Custodian of Ecologically Fragile Lands, Secretary, Indian Forest Service Association, Kerala; and K. Anand, Managing Trustee of the Adi Shankara Trust.
Other prominent attendees at the ceremony included: Dr. Jacob George, Associate Director of ASIET; Dr. T.K. Hrideek, Managing Director, Oushadhi; and NSS coordinators at ASIET, Professors Sijo and Shaji. Prominent conservationists, academics, and environmental leaders from Kerala also attended the event held to mark World Environment Day 2024 under the theme: Land Restoration, Desertification, and Drought Resilience.
The agro-education project will be implemented on a 10-acre plot of land at ASIET. The project aims to encourage international cooperation and become a global role model for sustainable agriculture. The primary objectives of the project are to foster research and innovation in environment and sustainable development, cultivate a new generation of environmental ambassadors equipped with knowledge and skills in sustainability, and create a scalable model that can be adopted globally for gaining practical learning in sustainable farming. The program focuses on all aspects of agricultural training and education including youth, gender, and workforce development.
Commenting on the newly launched initiative, Prof. Dr. Mohammed Ahamed Bin Fahad, Chairman, Zayed International Foundation for the Environment, said: The future of our planet rests on the shoulders of young people. Equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and passion to foster love and knowledge of agriculture and the environment is crucial. Agriculture is a vehicle to educate students holistically, and innovative approaches in environmental education and sustainable farming can foster a love for nature and farming, inspiring action to address real-world environmental challenges.
Investments in agricultural education and technological infrastructure are critical, said Dr. Bin Fahad, adding, Our top priority is building the technical expertise needed to achieve food security and promote sustainable agriculture while preparing, educating, and training the next generation of agriculture professionals.
He added: On behalf of the Zayed International Foundation for the Environment, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Adi Shankara Institute of Engineering and Technology for the opportunity to collaborate on this vital initiative and help co-create impactful solutions for all. This project serves as a beacon of hope and action in environmental conservation and sustainability. By educating young minds to seek solutions that address critical environmental issues, the Foundation is cultivating a generation that values and works toward environmental preservation and empowering them with the skills to contribute to a greener future.
In an inspiring keynote address delivered at ASIET, Chief Guest Dr. R Kamalahar (IFS) highlighted the importance of guarding precious natural heritage and equipping the next generation with the knowledge and tools necessary to effectively implement sustainable agricultural practices to combat climate change. In his presidential address,K. Anand, Managing Trustee of the Adi Shankara Trust, shared insights on the significance of the project and the role of educational institutions in environmental stewardship.
Dr. Jacob George, Associate Director of ASIET, welcomed the distinguished guests and participants, emphasizing the collaborative spirit of the initiative, and expressed his gratitude to the Zayed International Foundation for the Environment for their invaluable support and leadership in initiating the pioneering agro-educational project. Project Advisor Oommen Johnson elaborated on the innovative model, describing it as a pilot project that integrates international best practices in environment and sustainable development with advanced technology and remote management tools to provide students with a practical, hands-on learning experience.
The launch of the agro-educational project on World Environment Day 2024 underscores the importance of innovative educational approaches in improving overall ecosystem health and resilience and fostering sustainability. By integrating advanced technology, research, and practical learning, this initiative aims to create a replicable model that can be adopted globally and enable communities to take ownership of their land, ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.
