NATIONAL WORKSHOP ON APPLICATION OF
SPACE RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY IN AGRICULTURE
Date: 4th – 7th May, 2020
Venue: ICT Unit Complex, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State
Co-organisers:
- Centre for Atmospheric Research, National Space Research & Development Agency, Anyigba
- Faculty of Agriculture, University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
Aim of the workshop:
The workshop aims at sharing knowledge and experiences on applications of space research and technology in agriculture among Academics, Agriculturists, Space Practitioners, and Policy Makers interested in application of space dependent technology in advancing agriculture towards enhancing food security.
Brief Background:
Agriculture forms the basis of the world’s food supply. Precision farming embraces the use of autonomous vehicles, automated machines, real time network surveillance cameras, satellite imageries of farmland and Global Navigational Satellite System based operations to handle farm operations. Precision farming is gaining grounds around the world because it helps to determine the soil type, plants requirements and increases farm output. Smart agriculture is promoted through the application of space technology. Smart agriculture is an approach to understand the basic requirement as well as the changes in current environment due to external factors. Research in modern farm practices is greatly aided by space technology. The merging of the space and agricultural sectors will deliver what Nigeria needs, because with the application of space, science and technology, we can feed a nation and not a family. Space-dependent technology is of value to farmers, agronomists, food manufacturers and agricultural policymakers who wish to simultaneously enhance production and profitability. Rainfall assessments from satellites, for example, help farmers plan the timing and amount of irrigation they will need for their crops. Accurate information and analysis can also help predict a region’s agricultural output well in advance and can be critical in anticipating and mitigating the effects of food shortages and famines.
Objectives of the workshop:
The workshop objectives include to:
- Showcase various advances in application of space-dependent technology in agriculture
- educate the participants on various areas they could conduct researches as relates to space sciences and technology in agriculture
- determine the various areas how space technology can benefit agriculture and government decision-making in Africa
- Facilitate participants to develop Initial thoughts on a work plan for conducting applications of space research and technology in agriculture
Paper/Abstract Submission
Abstract should be written in MS Word and not more than 300 words with 1.5 spacing. Unless extremely important, referencing is not required in the abstract and must be submitted in English Language only. Authors should please provide a maximum of 5 keywords. The organisers shall ensure that papers emanating from this meeting are published in a reputable peer-reviewed journal. All abstract submission should be made online via Centre for Atmospheric Research, National Space Research & Development Agency, Anyigba website – https://carnasrda.com/nwasrtaform2020
Target Audience and Application for participation:
Participation shall be by invitation only to successful candidates. Applications are invited from academics, policy makers, agriculturists and practitioners with keep interest in application of space research and technology to agriculture towards food security. Interested participants should complete the application form.
Key Dates for the Workshop:
Deadline for application and submission abstract is 11.59 pm local time on 31st March, 2020
- Day 1: Arrival
- Day 2: Opening/Morning/Afternoon sessions Cocktail
- Day 3: Morning/Afternoon sessions Workshop Dinner
- Day 4: Departure
Venue of the Workshop:
The Workshop will be held at ICT Unit Complex, University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN). UNN is accessible from anywhere in Nigeria. All selected and invited participants will receive an information package with details on travel and other local arrangements.
Registration for the Workshop:
There shall be no registration fee for the Workshop Apply here. Cheap and affordable lodging facilities are available in the vicinity of the University of Nigeria.
Enquiry:
Professor Agwu Ekwe Agwu
Dean, Faculty of Agriculture,
University of Nigeria, Nsukka
Email: ekwe.agwu@unn.edu.ng
Mr. Aloysious Maduforo
Faculty of Agriculture,
University of Nigeria, Nsukka
Email: aloysius.maduforo@unn.edu.ng
Bimbo Jamah
Centre for Atmospheric Research,
National Space Research and Development Agency
Kogi State University, Anyigba.
Email: carworkshop@carnasrda.com
Dr. Oluwole Akinnagbe
Department of Agricultural Extension and Communication Technology
Federal University of Technology, Akure.
Email: omakinnagbe@futa.edu.ng