In a groundbreaking initiative, Anjuman College of Engineering and Technology (ACET) in Nagpur successfully conducted a six-day online Faculty Development Programme (FDP) focused on ‘Harnessing AI Technology for Sustainable Rural Agriculture’. The event, held from February 17 to 22, was sponsored by the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) under the ATAL (AICTE Training and Learning) initiative, highlighting the growing importance of integrating artificial intelligence (AI) in agriculture.
The inaugural session set the tone for the event, with insightful speeches from GK Awari of Government Polytechnic and KS Zakiuddin, principal of ACET. Ruhina Quazi, head of the department of electronics and telecommunication at ACET, provided a comprehensive overview of the FDP’s objectives and significance, emphasizing the potential of AI to revolutionize rural agriculture.
The programme attracted a diverse audience, with 167 participants from across the country eager to explore the intersection of AI and sustainable agriculture. The FDP featured a lineup of expert-led sessions by national and international speakers from both academia and industry. These sessions delved into AI-driven agricultural innovations, offering participants a deep understanding of practical applications and the transformative potential of AI in rural farming practices.
The event was meticulously coordinated by Prof Mohammad Nasiruddin, with Prof Sanjay Ganar serving as the co-coordinator. Their efforts ensured the smooth execution of the programme, which was lauded for its comprehensive approach and engaging content.
Recognising the success of the FDP, Justice Zaka Haq, administrator of Anjuman Hami-e-Islam and a retired judge of the Bombay High Court, along with the management, congratulated principal KS Zakiuddin and the faculty members for their dedication and hard work in organizing the event. The FDP not only marked a significant step toward leveraging AI in rural agriculture but also underscored the importance of sustainability and technological innovation in one of India’s most vital sectors.
The implications of this FDP are far-reaching. By equipping educators with the knowledge and tools to integrate AI into agricultural practices, ACET is paving the way for a more sustainable and technologically advanced future in rural farming. This initiative is a testament to the potential of AI to address some of the most pressing challenges in agriculture, from crop management to resource optimization. As the programme continues to inspire and educate, it sets a benchmark for future endeavors in the field of agritech, fostering a new generation of innovators committed to sustainable rural development.
