Aiming to provide knowledge and insight into cutting-edge technologies applied in the agricultural sector, the Smart Droplets Academy (Smart Droplets Academy) conducts a series of training seminars within the framework of the EU-funded project. The seminars are designed for the general public (from agricultural professionals to researchers and IT workers) and focus on the application of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics technologies in the agricultural sector.

The Smart Droplets project started its activity in September 2022, with the aim of improving, developing and combining cutting-edge technologies to create a holistic system of sustainable spraying. 9 partners from 6 countries (Netherlands, Greece, Spain, Lithuania, France, Serbia) participate. It includes the application of autonomous modernized tractors with Direct Spray System (DIS) to make spraying more intelligent. This will prevent the mixing of plant protection products and plant nutrients (fertilizers). In addition, significant input savings will be made and farmers will be protected from extensive exposure to agrochemicals.

By using technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (Machine Learning), digital twins (Digital Twins) and other innovative digital technologies, data from the field will be transformed into actionable information. In addition, data collected in real time from sensors in the field will optimize the technological means used in the project.

The Smart Droplets Academy includes a series of webinars aimed at upskilling “non-experts” and further familiarizing them with cutting-edge technologies in agriculture. It also aims to provide participants with valuable knowledge to develop the skills needed to understand and make the most of digital technology tools in their daily farming practices.
It is worth noting that the seminars are delivered by well-known partners of the project, experts in modern technologies, such as the Agricultural University of Athens (Greece), the University of Wageningen (Netherlands), the Eurecat Technology Center (Spain), the innovation hub Agrifood Lithuania ( Lithuania) and the FEMAC cluster (Spain). The consortium also includes: Fondacija Vizlore Labs (Serbia), Foodscale Hub Greece (Greece), Agreenculture (France) and Agroma (Greece).

Regarding the issue, Kalliopi Kounani from the GPA, said: “The Smart Droplets Academy, a cornerstone of the project, represents our dedication to empowering stakeholders in the agri-food sector, with cutting-edge knowledge in artificial intelligence and robotics in the agricultural sector. Our integrated approach, which includes webinars, breakout sessions and hands-on demonstrations, ensures that participants from diverse backgrounds, including farmers and agricultural professionals, gain practical knowledge and skills. This initiative is a testament to our commitment to innovation, sustainability and the transformative power of technology in agriculture.”

The Academy in numbers

So far, 13 seminars have been held, covering a total of 26 hours, with the ultimate goal of reaching the 50-hour milestone. Each partner brings their own unique experience and expertise, contributing to a rich and interdisciplinary learning environment.

The sessions delve into the key technologies applied to Smart Droplets, such as reinforcement learning, digital twins and precision agriculture. Their goal is to simplify complex concepts, making them accessible to all participants. The role of reinforced learning in optimizing fertilizer use and how digital twins contribute to yield prediction are just some of the topics covered in the seminars. Such knowledge is crucial to understanding how these technologies can lead to more sustainable and efficient agricultural practices.

The Smart Droplets Academy seminars and training material (including recorded webinars and training material) will soon be available on-demand via the project’s Smart Droplets Knowledge Base at smartdroplets.eu. This ensures that participants can access the educational content at any time that suits them, facilitating continuous learning and the application of these technologies in their work.

“Our aim is to ensure that the valuable knowledge and skills imparted through our academy are continuously accessible to support the advancement of the agri-food sector,” Ms Kounani added.