Under the patronage of Professor Dr. Sherif Khater, President of Mansoura University, and Professor Dr. Mohamed Abdel Azim, Vice President of the University for Community Service and Environmental Development, the Community Service and Environmental Development Sector at the Faculty of Agriculture, Mansoura University, organized an advisory convoy titled "Developing Agricultural Extension Skills - Climate Change and Its Impact on Crop Production."

The event took place on Wednesday, December 4, 2024, at the Directorate of Agriculture in Dakahlia as part of the presidential initiative "New Beginning for Human Development." It was supervised by Professor Dr. Mohamed Ali Shata, Dean of the Faculty, and Professor Dr. Metwally Mohamed Abu Sarea, Vice Dean for Community Service and Environmental Development.

Keynote Contributions

The convoy featured notable scientific contributions from a group of distinguished faculty members. Among them:

• Professor Dr. Walid Al-Maadawi, Professor of Agricultural Crops, and
• Assistant Professor Dr. Raghda Hassan Mahmoud Salem, Assistant Professor of Agricultural Extension,
  who delivered informative lectures on the challenges of climate change and the significance of digital transformation in improving the agricultural sector.

Scientific and Advisory Focus Areas:

Climate Change and Its Impact on Agricultural Crops

Professor Dr. Walid Al-Maadawi highlighted the natural and industrial causes of climate change and explained its adverse effects on soil and crops. He discussed sustainable environmental solutions to mitigate these impacts, including:

• Using modern irrigation systems to reduce water waste.
• Adopting crop varietal maps and developing climate-resilient strains.
• Implementing the Ministry of Agriculture’s recommendations to boost productivity.

The Importance of Digital Transformation in Agriculture

Assistant Professor Dr. Raghda Hassan Mahmoud Salem elaborated on the role of digital transformation as a key tool in achieving Egypt’s Vision 2030 for sustainable development. Her lecture covered:

• The benefits of digital transformation in enhancing efficiency and productivity.
• Current obstacles and ways to overcome them.
• Measures to accelerate digital transformation, such as improving infrastructure and professional training.

Interactive Discussions and Evaluations

At the conclusion of the convoy, a discussion session was held with farmers and agricultural extension workers to address their questions and exchange ideas about daily challenges. A survey was also distributed to assess the effectiveness of the convoy and the achievement of its objectives.

Positive Impact on the Agricultural Community

This event underscored the pioneering role of the Faculty of Agriculture at Mansoura University in raising awareness within the agricultural community and supporting it in addressing climate and technological challenges. It emphasized sustainable agricultural production and the development of the rural economy.

By the end of the advisory convoy, Mansoura University reaffirmed its commitment to contributing effectively to sustainable development, while emphasizing its dedication to community service and raising awareness of future challenges and opportunities.