In Grabouw in the Western Cape, the South African Institute of Agricultural Engineers (SAIAE) and the Pan African Society for Agricultural Engineering (PASAE) are gearing up to host their international symposium.
From Wednesday, 23 to Friday, 25 October, the symposium not only celebrates SAIAE’s 60th anniversary but also draws innovators and visionaries from across the continent and beyond to collectively shape the future of agricultural engineering.
Marking PASAE’s sixth international conference, the symposium will delve into cutting-edge advancements and strategies crucial for the future of agricultural sustainability and productivity.
Senzo Masikane, SAIAE business manager, says the symposium seeks to unite the agricultural engineering community to exchange knowledge and practices in various fields of agricultural biosystems engineering.
“We encourage attendees or delegates to bring along their spouses or partners to savour the experience with the agricultural engineering community in the splendid Western Cape locale,” Masikane added.
“I foresee agricultural engineering leading the charge in economic development across Africa, with evident technological strides. I envision agricultural engineering realising its full potential to forge a resilient, sustainable, and secure future for food production.”
Call for abstracts
Masikane tells Food For Mzansi that engineers, technicians, and agricultural innovators are currently invited to submit abstracts on a wide array of topics, including the Fourth Industrial Revolution, precision agriculture, renewable energy applications, and the integration of artificial intelligence in agricultural practices.
Abstract submissions, due by Friday, 16 August 2024, offer contributors a platform to showcase pioneering research and projects shaping the field.
Submissions must not exceed 300 words and should include a title, author photo, and contact details. It should be sent to senzo@saiae.co.za or londiwe@saiae.co.za with the subject line “Symposium abstract.”
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Dynamic programme and activities
The symposium agenda is set to include a robust programme of presentations, technical tours, and networking opportunities designed to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge exchange.
Delegates can anticipate engaging sessions that explore critical themes such as climate change resilience, food processing innovations, and sustainable water management systems.
Attendees can register for the symposium through the SAIAE website or by contacting the event organisers directly. Various registration packages cater to both physical and virtual participation, accommodating diverse preferences and ensuring accessibility across borders.
The symposium brings together a diverse group of partners to support its mission. This includes University of KwaZulu-Natal, University of the Free State, the South African National Convention Bureau, Wesgro, CIGR, Engineers Without Borders South Africa, Royal Academy of Engineering, University of Venda, ICOLD CIGB, SABI, and the Agricultural Research Council.
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