Organized in collaboration with Erzurum Technical University and Atatürk University, the “Digitalization in Agriculture and Livestock” program brought science and producers together in the same field.
Held under the theme “Science in the Field for Productive Hands” on the occasion of May 14 Farmers’ Day, the “Digitalization in Agriculture and Livestock” program took place in Kırmızıtaş Village with strong participation. The event brought together academics, farmers, students, and local residents on the same platform to discuss digital transformation in agriculture and livestock, artificial intelligence-supported applications, mobile veterinary services, and innovative rural development projects.
The program was organized within the scope of the “Science Café” activities coordinated under the auspices of the Council of Higher Education and carried out by the Science Communication Offices of universities. It served as an important example of transferring scientific knowledge directly to the field, introducing farmers to modern technologies, and strengthening university–society cooperation.
Among the attendees were Erzurum Technical University Rector Prof. Dr. Bülent Çakmak, Atatürk University Rector Prof. Dr. Ahmet Hacımüftüoğlu, numerous academics, students, and citizens.
The Future of Digital Agriculture Discussed in the Village Square
During the presentations and field applications held as part of the event, producers were introduced to sensor-supported animal tracking systems, smart greenhouse applications, data-based production processes, digital animal health monitoring, and AI-supported agricultural analyses. In particular, local farmers showed great interest in the domestic rumen sensor bolus technology, which enables real-time monitoring of animal health.
The project, developed under the coordination of Sivas University of Science and Technology with Erzurum Technical University and Atatürk University among its stakeholders, introduced sensor technologies capable of instantly monitoring animals’ body temperature, mobility, rumination behavior, and health data. The project aims to support sustainable livestock production by enabling early disease detection and reducing productivity losses.
During informational meetings with villagers, it was emphasized that digital technologies offer significant advantages not only for large-scale enterprises but also for small-scale producers. Farmers were informed that early diagnosis systems would reduce economic losses, increase productivity, and contribute significantly to animal welfare.
“Universities Are the Strongest Partners of Social Development”
In his speech, Erzurum Technical University Rector Prof. Dr. Bülent Çakmak emphasized that universities are institutions that directly contribute to social development and stated:
“The true value of scientific studies can be seen in the field. Being here today with our farmers, listening directly to their needs, and sharing developed technologies through practical applications is extremely valuable. The digitalization process is bringing about a major transformation in agriculture and livestock. As universities, being at the center of this transformation and guiding our producers is among our fundamental responsibilities.”
Rector Çakmak also expressed his satisfaction with the strong interest shown by young people in the technology workshops, noting that strengthening scientific awareness from an early age is crucial for the production models of the future.
“We Are Bringing Science Together with the Reality of the Field”
Atatürk University Rector Prof. Dr. Ahmet Hacımüftüoğlu stated that universities are not only institutions that produce academic knowledge but also structures that develop solutions for society’s needs:
“Today, we are not merely holding an event; we are bringing science together with our producers, technology together with the field, and universities together with society. Digitalization in agriculture and livestock is no longer a choice but a fundamental requirement for sustainable production. Thanks to AI-supported systems, sensor technologies, and data-based production models, our producers can carry out more efficient, controlled, and stronger production processes. As a university, our goal is to transform academic knowledge into value that directly touches the lives of our citizens rather than leaving it confined to laboratories.”
Hacımüftüoğlu also highlighted that domestic sensor technologies developed for real-time animal health monitoring would make significant contributions to Türkiye’s digital transformation in agriculture and livestock. He stated that such projects carry strategic importance for the country’s domestic technology capacity.
Strong Interest from Villagers
As part of the program, village room discussions focusing on family and health topics were held for local residents, while special technology workshops were organized for children. In addition, mobile veterinary services were provided through the Mobile Animal Hospital, where health checks were carried out for animals in the region.
The event, which combined scientific knowledge with social benefit, concluded with great interest and satisfaction from the villagers, once again highlighting the importance of field-oriented university projects aimed at rural development.
