Abu Dhabi: Khalifa University of Science and Technology and Silal have inked an agreement to create a joint Centre of Excellence in Agri-Robotics and Automation. The collaboration will use the development of robots and automation to revolutionize the agriculture industry in the UAE and abroad.
Salmeen Al Ameri, CEO of Silal in Abu Dhabi, and Professor Sir John O’Reilly, President of Khalifa University, signed the deal. The main goal of the cooperation, according to the agreement, is to establish a collaborative research center called the Center of Excellence for Agri-Robotic and Automation. This center will be used to exchange technical knowledge and resources and drive innovation in agri-robotics and automation in agriculture. Through internships and cooperative programs, the agreement also makes it easier for academics and students from Khalifa University to conduct the study and transfer and commercialize the research outputs. Collaborative seminars, symposiums, and conferences will be arranged to promote cooperation and the sharing of research concepts.
Professor Sir John O’Reilly remarked that, “We are delighted to collaborate with Silal and offer our robotics research expertise in the agriculture sector. Khalifa University is at the forefront of scientific research in the field of robotics and automation and is committed to furthering the education and training of our students through internships and collaborative programs. This partnership will facilitate the exchange of knowledge and foster research and development aimed at promoting sustainable food production in the country, in line with the directives of the UAE leadership.”
The proposed research center will have an autonomous greenhouse that is outfitted with multiple robot platforms, sensors, and Internet of Things (IoT) infrastructure. It is set to be situated at the Innovation Oasis site of Silal in Al Ain. This state-of-the-art facility will help scientists and start-ups from Khalifa University with their development and pilot research. They will also manage the center’s innovation operations in partnership with Silal’s agritech professionals.
As part of this collaboration, Khalifa University and Silal will provide training programs for farmers and students at Khalifa University, in addition to support programs for businesses. In addition, the cooperation will entail the creation of project proposals, obtaining finance for joint ventures, and exchanging knowledgeable staff people, such as professors, researchers, and students.