LocationsAuthors: Otabek Eshmatov, Hrvoje Ivan Horvat
Exposure to the Future of Agriculture: Insights from a Study Tour to Italy
June 19, 2024
Investment in agri-food research can deliver new knowledge and promote innovation. Uzbekistan already possesses substantial knowledge to address many challenges faced by farmers and agri-food businesses. However, there is a disconnection between the needs and concerns of farmers and agribusinesses and the responsiveness of the agriculture research community.
To bridge this gap, the UNDP project "Supporting an inclusive transition to a ‘green’ economy in the Agri-food sector and development of a ‘climate-smart’ Uzbek Agriculture Knowledge and Innovation System" (EU-AGRIN), funded by the European Union has organized the second study tour to Italy, aimed to enrich the technical expertise and practical implementation insights for researchers and representatives of the ministry of agriculture (MoA) of Uzbekistan.
Building upon the foundational knowledge acquired during the initial phase of Uzbek Innovation Groups and the recent training sessions for research institutes led by CREA experts, this study tour aims to explore deeper into the aspects of managing and leveraging Innovation Partnerships for enhanced agricultural research and development.
Italy can be called the heart of agricultural innovation. Over five days, participants of the study tour explored diverse facets of Italian agriculture, from precision farming to viticulture, gaining invaluable insights and experiences along the way.
Precision Farming and Sustainable Practices
The journey began with a visit to the CREA Center for Engineering and Food Processing in Treviglio, where the researchers witnessed firsthand the innovative machinery and techniques driving precision farming practices. From using satellite surveillance for optimized fertilization to state-of-the-art machinery in the field, they gained valuable insights into ways how technology blends with sustainable agricultural practices that are shaping the future of farming.
Animal Husbandry and Dairy Production
On the second day, the focus shifted to animal husbandry and dairy production at the CREA Center for Animal Production and Aquaculture in Lodi. Here, the researchers explored genetic improvement programs and innovative technologies aimed at optimizing farm efficiency and animal welfare. From precision feeding systems to cattle behavioral research, they gained a deeper understanding of the intricate workings of the dairy industry.
Viticulture and Enology
Day three took the researchers into the world of viticulture and enology at the CREA Center for Viticulture and Enology in Asti. Here, they delved into the art and science of highly controlled, science based winemaking, learning about innovative cultivation techniques and enological practices aimed at promoting environmental sustainability and enhancing grape quality. From sensorial studies to biodiversity conservation, they gained valuable insights into the rich tapestry of Italian winemaking traditions.
Hazelnut Production and Aquaculture
The fourth day brought the researchers to Alba, where they explored sustainable hazelnut production practices and soil management techniques. They learned about biological pest control to soil erosion prevention and witnessed firsthand the innovative approaches driving the hazelnut industry forward. Later, they ventured into freshwater aquaculture in Cuneo, learning about sustainable fish farming practices and disease prevention strategies aimed at meeting the growing demand for protein in a sustainable manner.
Vegetable Production and Innovation
The final day of the study tour was dedicated to exploring innovative solutions for vegetable production in Sanremo. The participants had the opportunity to learn about intensive, greenhouse cultivation of medicinal and edible plants and contemporary, sustainable farming practices that are revolutionizing the vegetable industry. They also visited local Innovation Groups, learning about vegetable value chains, greenhouse management, and new plant varieties that are reshaping the future of agriculture.
As the study tour came to a close, the Uzbek researchers returned home with a newfound appreciation for the power of collaboration and innovation in driving sustainable agricultural development. Armed with insights and experiences from Italy, they are ready to apply these learnings to advance Uzbekistan’s agricultural sector into a new era of growth and resilience. Indeed, the study tour was not just a journey of discovery, but a motivation to start the transformation and upgrading of Uzbek agriculture.
