Partnership between the Environment and King Abdulaziz University to develop agriculture in Rabigh
In a move aimed at promoting sustainable development and achieving food security, the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture office in Rabigh Governorate discussed with King Abdulaziz University mechanisms for employing knowledge innovation and scientific research to raise the efficiency of the agricultural sector in the governorate, within the framework of integrating efforts between government sectors and academic institutions.
This move came during the reception of Engineer Radah Al-Qarzi, Director of the Ministry’s office in Rabigh, by Dr. Marwan Khimi, Supervisor of the Knowledge Creativity Sector at the university branch, where the two parties discussed a joint roadmap aimed at transforming academic theories and scientific research into tangible applied practices that serve farmers and support the sustainability of natural resources in the region.
Bridging the gap between education and the labor market
During the meeting, both sides agreed to launch a package of research initiatives and training programs aimed at building a national workforce specializing in modern agricultural technologies. This new partnership aims to bridge the gap between educational outcomes and the actual needs of the environmental and agricultural market, directly aligning with the objectives of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which places great emphasis on localizing technology and developing human capital.
The importance of smart agriculture in achieving sustainability
The two officials affirmed their commitment to exchanging expertise to promote "smart agriculture" concepts and knowledge transfer, thereby contributing to improved quality of local produce. This step comes at a time when the Kingdom is moving towards adopting modern irrigation technologies and precision agriculture to conserve water and increase crop yields per hectare, which necessitates close cooperation between research centers and implementing bodies to apply global best practices adapted to the local environment.
Keeping pace with the objectives of the Saudi Green Initiative
This collaboration is particularly important given the significant progress being made in the Kingdom under the "Saudi Green Initiative," where developing the agricultural sector is a cornerstone for increasing vegetation cover and combating desertification. The outcomes of this collaboration are expected to contribute to providing innovative solutions to the challenges facing farmers in Rabigh Governorate, such as soil salinity and water scarcity, through applied research conducted by the university and supported by the Ministry's office.
Promoting the knowledge economy
This initiative reflects the shift towards a "knowledge economy," where the academic role extends beyond the classroom to include direct economic and social impact. These training programs are expected to produce a new generation of farmers and agricultural entrepreneurs capable of utilizing modern technology, thereby enhancing local food security and creating new job opportunities for the province's young men and women in this vital sector.
