Khalifa University of Science and Technology has signed an agreement with Salal to establish a joint research center aimed at enhancing innovation in the field of robotics and agricultural automation, and exchanging technical knowledge to develop the agriculture sector in the UAE and worldwide. The center is named “Center of Excellence in Robotics and Agricultural Automation.”
The agreement was signed by Professor John O’Reilly, President of Khalifa University of Science and Technology, and Salemin Al Ameri, CEO of Salal.
Under the agreement, both parties agree to facilitate the application and commercialization of research results, implement collaborative training programs and research for researchers and students at Khalifa University, as well as organize workshops, forums, and joint conferences to facilitate collaboration and exchange of research ideas.
Dr. John O’Reilly expressed his pleasure to collaborate with Salal and offer his expertise in the field of robotics research for utilization in agriculture. He noted that Khalifa University holds a leading position in this field and aims to enhance education and training for students through collaborative programs. This collaboration aims to enhance sustainable food production in the country and achieve the directives of the wise leadership.
Salemin Al Ameri stated that progress in the field of robotics and automation plays a vital role in enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of food production systems. They work at Salal to build an ecosystem that connects research capabilities with the needs of the agriculture and food sector. Their partnership with Khalifa University is an important step in this direction, to transfer knowledge and scientific expertise into practical solutions for the sustainability of their food systems.
The joint research center, to be established at Salal’s Innovation Oasis in Al Ain city, will feature a self-controlled agricultural greenhouse equipped with a large number of robotic platforms, sensors, and IoT-related infrastructure. The purpose is to support experimental research by researchers and startups at Khalifa University, who oversee innovation activities at the center in collaboration with agricultural technology experts at Salal.
Under this agreement, Khalifa University and Salal will develop programs to support startups, train students and farmers, develop proposals for new projects, ensure the funding of these projects, as well as exchange experiences and personnel among faculty members, researchers, and students.
The “Center of Excellence in Robotics and Agricultural Automation” will develop low-cost intelligent robotic solutions capable of enhancing agricultural techniques. It will also explore ways to monitor crops using AI systems and computer vision for early disease detection, thereby reducing pesticide usage. The center will also research new robotic systems that autonomously control food production, including robots equipped with grippers for harvesting fruits and vegetables, enhancing precision agriculture implementation.
