By Scout Nelson
North Dakota State University celebrated a remarkable achievement at the 77th annual Agricultural Technology Exposition, where Joanna Daniella Fajardo was named the grand champion. The event, hosted by NDSU and its agricultural and biosystems engineering department, highlights significant student contributions in agricultural technology.
Fajardo, a sophomore majoring in precision agriculture and minoring in artificial intelligence, presented her innovative project titled “Bugging Out: IoT for Pest Detection.” Her interest in this field was sparked during her high school years at the Philippine Science High School System, leading her to develop a prototype Internet of Things (IoT) device for detecting pest and disease damage in crops.
The exposition provided a platform for students like Fajardo to showcase their projects, which integrate modern technology into practical agricultural applications. Her project featured FarmerLifeLine and FarmSense, two solar-powered devices that utilize advanced sensors and artificial intelligence to detect and manage crop pests effectively.
These devices represent a significant advancement in agricultural technology, offering real-time data and actionable insights to farmers. This allows for more precise application of pesticides, ultimately enhancing crop management and sustainability.
The Ag Tech Expo is not only a competition but also an educational experience, teaching students like Fajardo valuable communication and problem-solving skills. It encourages them to simplify complex technological concepts, making them accessible and engaging to a broader audience.
The event has evolved significantly since its inception in 1948 and now includes a course offering at NDSU. This course and the expo itself help students develop higher-level thinking skills and practical abilities in presenting and explaining the latest innovations in agricultural technology.
Scholarships were awarded to various winners during the expo, with funds provided by local sponsors. These awards recognize the hard work and innovation of students, supporting their academic and research endeavors in the field of agricultural engineering.
With her project, Fajardo not only followed in her father's footsteps, who also graduated from NDSU, but also highlighted the impact of international students on local academic and technological communities.
The expo continues to foster a strong connection among students, educators, and industry professionals, promoting ongoing innovation in the agricultural sector.
Photo Credits:gettyimages-shotbydave
Categories: North Dakota, General