President of the National Authority for Remote Sensing and Space Sciences Discusses with the Egyptian Society of Soil Science Enhancing AI Applications and Precision Agriculture

With the Support of the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research President of the National Authority for Remote Sensing and Space Sciences Discusses with the Egyptian Society of Soil Science Enhancing AI Applications and Precision Agriculture

As part of implementing the directives of Dr. Abdelaziz Konsowa, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, to strengthen integration between research institutions and scientific societies and promote the utilization of technology and artificial intelligence in supporting sustainable agricultural development, Dr. Abdelaziz Belal, President of the National Authority for Remote Sensing and Space Sciences (NARSS), received a delegation from the Egyptian Society of Soil Science to explore opportunities for scientific and research collaboration and to leverage remote sensing technologies in soil studies and addressing agricultural and environmental challenges.

The Society's delegation included Dr. Mohamed Essam El-Din Shawky, Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University and Chairman of the Society s Board of Directors; Dr. Hassan Abbas Hamza, Faculty of Agriculture at Moshtohor, Benha University and Vice Chairman of the Board; Dr. Talba Saleh Abdel Aal, Faculty of Agriculture, Fayoum University and Treasurer; Dr. Said Shaaban, National Research Centre and Secretary of the Society; and Dr. Hassan El-Ramady, Faculty of Agriculture, Kafr Elsheikh University, Managing Editor of the Society's Journal and Member of the Executive Committee.

The meeting focused on exploring the potential for integrating remote sensing technologies, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and artificial intelligence into soil science applications, particularly in monitoring droughts, flash floods, and flooding events, studying soil erosion and degradation, and identifying salinity-affected areas through satellite imagery analysis.

Both sides also discussed several emerging research topics, including smart agriculture, precision agriculture, bio-saline agriculture, and soil mapping based on minimal datasets, all of which support informed decision-making and contribute to the optimal and sustainable use of agricultural and water resources.

 Members of the Society reviewed the history of the Egyptian Society of Soil Science and its scientific contributions spanning nearly 75 years, as well as the progress achieved by its scientific journal, which has attained a Q2 international ranking.

During the meeting, both parties discussed preparations for the 15th International Conference of the Egyptian Society of Soil Science, to be hosted by Cairo University under the title:

"The 15th International Conference of the Egyptian Society of Soil Science: Advances in Bio-Saline Agriculture in the Era of AI: Towards Sustainable Soil and Water Management."

The conference will be held under the patronage of Dr. Abdelaziz Konsowa, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, and Dr. Mohamed Sami Abdel Sadek, President of Cairo University. Members of the Society requested the participation of the National Authority for Remote Sensing and Space Sciences in the conference activities, which would enrich scientific discussions and facilitate the exchange of expertise among researchers and specialists.

 In the context of strengthening cooperation between scientific institutions and executive bodies, Dr. Abdelaziz Belal extended invitations to several relevant organizations to participate in the conference opening ceremony, including the Future of Egypt Sustainable Development Agency and the National Service Projects Organization, with the aim of linking scientific research and studies to practical implementation on the ground.

The meeting also addressed preparations for the 4th African International Conference on Precision Agriculture, organized by the African Plant Nutrition Institute and the International Society of Precision Agriculture in cooperation with the National Authority for Remote Sensing and Space Sciences and the Egyptian Space Agency, under the patronage of the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research. Dr. Abdelaziz Konsowa invited members of the Egyptian Society of Soil Science to participate in the conference, contributing to the exchange of scientific expertise, showcasing the latest technologies and innovative applications in precision agriculture, and strengthening cooperation among scientific and research institutions at both the national and international levels.

Both parties agreed to continue coordination in organizing scientific visits and specialized lectures, in addition to exploring the organization of a new conference on soil sciences at the Bibliotheca Alexandrina in collaboration with the Society. Such initiatives would support knowledge dissemination and the exchange of expertise in soil sciences, remote sensing, and sustainable agriculture.