Saudi Arabia launches training initiative to boost modern farming techniques

Abdulrahman Al-Fadley, Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture and Chairman of the National Center for Research and Development of Sustainable Agriculture (Estidamah), inaugurated the 'Training Packages for Farmers' initiative on the opening day of the Saudi Agriculture Exhibition 2026. The launch, attended by Deputy Minister Mansour Al-Mushaiti, comes as part of a collaboration between the center and the Saudi Reef Academy. The initiative aims to translate research findings and scientific expertise into practical training programs that will improve agricultural practices, enhance water and resource efficiency, and encourage the adoption of modern agricultural technologies.

The initiative is part of the center’s ongoing efforts to transfer agricultural knowledge to the field by utilizing research results and scientific experience in developing applied training content. The Saudi Reef Academy will convert this content into training packages and deliver programs in targeted regions, supporting improved agricultural practices, increased productivity, and the sustainability of natural resources.

The center is participating in the exhibition as a scientific research sponsor, showcasing its latest research, innovations, and agricultural technologies, as well as its efforts to develop applied research solutions and transfer knowledge to farmers, contributing to the sustainability and productivity of the agricultural sector.

As part of efforts to strengthen strategic partnerships and expand research and technical collaboration, the center signed cooperation agreements with SABIC Agri-Nutrients Company, the National Geospatial Services Company (NSG), and the Saudi Arabian Mining Company (Ma’aden), in addition to a memorandum of understanding with Qassim University.

These partnerships cover areas such as conducting applied agricultural research and field trials, developing agricultural technologies and products, utilizing geospatial data and remote sensing technologies to support research and monitor research sites, as well as enhancing training, agricultural extension, and knowledge exchange.

The center’s participation includes organizing a scientific program featuring a workshop and three panel discussions, one of which is in collaboration with the Saudi Reef Academy. These sessions will address topics related to agricultural research and innovation, and explore future solutions and trends to advance and sustain the sector.

At its exhibition booth, the center is presenting a range of research projects, innovations, and modern agricultural technologies, along with its research and development initiatives. This allows visitors and specialists to learn about the center’s efforts to address agricultural challenges, promote sustainable practices, and transfer knowledge and technology to practitioners in the sector.

Estidamah’s participation in the Saudi Agriculture Exhibition 2026 continues its mission to strengthen the integration of scientific research and field application, and to expand partnerships with academic, research, and private sector entities. These efforts support the adoption of modern agricultural technologies, improve the efficiency of natural resource use, and contribute to achieving the Kingdom’s sustainable agricultural development goals.