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Pre-Conference Workshop
Professor. Adre Minnaar-Ontong
Associate Professor and Academic Departmental Head of Plant Sciences University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
Biography
Prof. Adré Minnaar-Ontong is a highly motivated and skilled molecular plant breeder with a deep commitment to disease resistance and sustainable solutions in crop improvement. With over 16 years of experience in the academic sphere, she is passionate about advancing plant breeding and fostering a culture of research excellence. As the Academic Departmental Head of Plant Sciences at the University of the Free State, she provides strategic leadership, managing a department that includes diverse agricultural disciplines such as Plant Breeding, Plant Pathology, and Botany.
Her academic journey includes a PhD in Plant Breeding and Plant Pathology, and she has supervised numerous postgraduate students. She also coordinates the Crop Research Platform at the university, facilitating multidisciplinary research and collaboration between researchers, producers, and industry stakeholders. Her research focus includes breeding for disease resistance, particularly against pathogens such as Sclerotinia sclerotiorum and Fusarium head blight, which are critical challenges in South African agriculture. Prof. Minnaar-Ontong’s work aims to improve the resilience of key crops, including soybeans, sunflowers, and wheat, through innovative breeding programs and research.
In addition to her academic leadership, Prof. Minnaar-Ontong is an active member of various professional organizations, serving as a reviewer for international journals and collaborating on several research projects that address agricultural challenges in Africa.
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Workshop On Building Your Publication Strategy
Date: 19th March 2026 | Time: 2:00 PM- 3:00 PM IST
Topic Overview:
This workshop is designed to guide academics in developing a comprehensive, long-term strategy for publishing their research. Participants will learn practical approaches to managing multiple submissions, ensuring their work reaches diverse audiences while maintaining high standards. The session will cover how to balance the need for both quality and quantity in publications, and the importance of diversifying publication formats such as journal articles, books, conference proceedings, and online platforms. With actionable tips and strategies, attendees will be empowered to plan their publishing careers more effectively, fostering both academic visibility and impact.
Key Takeaways:
- Develop a long-term strategy for publishing research
- Tips on managing multiple submissions
- Balance quality with quantity
- Diversify publication formats
Prof. Mokgadi Julia Ngoepe-Ntsoane
Agri SETA Research Chair at the University of South Africa
Biography
Mokgadi Julia Ngoepe-Ntsoane is an Agri SETA Research Chair at the University of South Africa. Her research niche area is in the field of sustainable development within the themes of Agriculture, Energy, Climate Change, and Policy Analysis in the fields of Social and Economic Environments. She has served in numerous Accounting Authorities such as AgriSETA, Agricultural Research Council as a Board member. She has served as an Executive Member of the South African Development Studies Association where she also served in the Editorial team. She was a Chair of Executive Education at the Unisa Graduare School of Business Leadership. Prof Ngoepe-Ntsoane has published more than 20 peer reviewed Journals, Book Chapters, and a book. She has presented papers in National and International Conferences and has also participated in an international Teaching Mobility Programme. She has supervised Master’s and Doctoral students to completion. She has reviewed more than 15 manuscripts for high impact Journals. She has been exposed to many sectors in a career where she has gained extensive experience in the public sector (worked in the Department for Agriculture, Statistics South Africa) United Nations Development Programme, and Academia. She has forged international partnerships with the United Nations University, Long-term Europe – Africa Multilateral Research and Foreign Service Institute, US Department of State
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Workshop On Essential Steps To Take Before Publishing: A Guide To Preparing For Success
Date: 23rd April 2026 | Time: 2:00 PM- 3:00 PM IST
Topic Overview:
“Essential Steps to Take Before Publishing: A Guide to Preparing for Success”
This workshop will guide participants through the critical steps necessary to ensure their manuscript is prepared for successful publication. Professor Julia will discuss the key things to consider during manuscript preparation, such as what to look out for when publishing and how to enhance your writing skills for academic publishing. The session will provide valuable insights on improving manuscript quality, increasing the chances of acceptance, and effectively navigating the publishing process. Participants will leave with practical knowledge on the steps to take before submitting their work for publication.
Key Takeaways:
- Understanding Publishing Standards
- Manuscript Preparation Tips
- Things to Consider Before Submission
- Building a Strong Manuscript
- The Importance of Pre-Publication Preparation
Dr. Utpal Barman
Former Founder Dean (FoCT) - Assam Down Town University
Former Dean of Research - Kaziranga University
Former Senior Assistant Professor - GIMT Guwahati
Associate Editor (Information Processing in Agriculture - Elsevier)
Editor (Scientific Reports - Springer)
Editor (Discovery Sustainability - Springer)
Editor (Discover Artificial Intelligence - Springer)
Biography
Dr. Utpal Barman is an accomplished academic leader, researcher, and innovator with over 14 years of experience in Computer Science and Engineering. He currently serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of Information Technology (AI-ML Discipline) at Assam Skill University (A Govt. of Assam University) and has previously held key roles such as Dean of Faculty at Assam down town University, Dean of Research, and Centre Head of the Centre of Excellence in Data Science and Simulation (COEDSS) at Kaziranga University.
Dr. Barman has successfully completed 9+ funded research and consultancy projects worth over ₹65 lakhs from agencies such as AICTE, CDB, and MHRD, and serves as Co-PI in the ₹4.85 crore DST NIDHI i-TBI project. He has guided 5 PhD scholars out of which one has awarded and One has submitted thesis. He has also guided a total of 15+ M.Tech theses, and 25+ B.Tech projects, and holds three patents in Agri-Informatics. His research expertise spans Agri-Informatics, Machine Learning, Deep Learning, Data Science, and Computer Vision.
Beyond academia, he is the Co-Founder and Advisor of Somadhan AgriTech and Karengg Technologies. The Somadhan is a startup funded by AIC NeatEHUB, AAU-Jorhat.
HE has more than 40+ Journal papers and 20+ conference papers and book chapters. He also contributes globally as an Associate Editor for Information Processing in Agriculture (Selevier), Editor in Springer Nature (Scientific Reports), Discover Sustainability, and JANS.
Driven by a passion for innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration, Dr. Barman continues to bridge research, industry, and entrepreneurship, mentoring the next generation of technology professionals and contributing to advancements in AI and AgriTech solutions.
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Workshop On Precision Farming For a Sustainable Future: Data-Driven Innovations Powering Prosperous Agriculture
Date: 17th July 2026 | Time: 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM IST
Topic Overview:
Precision Farming for a Sustainable Future: Data-Driven Innovations Powering Prosperous Agriculture
This topic explores how precision farming, supported by data-driven technologies, is transforming modern agriculture into a more sustainable, efficient, and economically viable system. It examines the integration of tools such as remote sensing, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Internet of Things (IoT) devices, artificial intelligence, and big data analytics in optimizing farm management practices. From targeted input application to real-time decision-making, precision agriculture enables farmers to increase productivity while minimizing environmental impacts. The topic also highlights research trends, methodological approaches, and publication opportunities related to sustainable agriculture, agri-tech innovation, and food security.
Key Takeaways
- Data-Driven Decision Making
- Sustainability and Resource Efficiency
- Technological Integration in Agriculture Research
- Economic Benefits for Farmers
- Strong Publication and Policy Relevance
Conference Day Workshop
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Workshop On "How Can AI Impact Agriculture?"
This workshop focuses on the growing role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in agriculture and how it is shaping the future of farming. It will provide an overview of how AI technologies can support improved productivity, efficient resource management, and sustainable agricultural practices. The session will also discuss real-world applications, emerging trends, and the opportunities and challenges associated with adopting AI in agricultural systems. The workshop is suitable for researchers, professionals, students, and anyone interested in innovation in agriculture.
facilitator

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Workshop On “Potential Scientific Research For Sustainable Farming”
This workshop focuses on key scientific research areas that contribute to the development of sustainable farming systems. It will discuss current research directions, innovative scientific approaches, and their role in improving agricultural productivity while protecting natural resources. The session aims to provide participants with an overview of research opportunities that support environmentally sustainable, climate-resilient, and economically viable farming practices. It is suitable for researchers, academics, students, and professionals interested in advancing sustainable agriculture through scientific research.
facilitator

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Panel Discussion On "Potential Scientific Research For Sustainable Farming"
AGRICO 2026 will spotlight innovative scientific research driving the future of sustainable agriculture. This feature will explore key focus areas such as smart farming technologies, AI applications, and vertical farming for enhanced productivity. Discussions will also address climate-resilient biotechnology, advancements in soil and water use efficiency, and the role of renewable energy in cost-saving and loss reduction. Join us to discover research shaping a more resilient and prosperous farming future.




Related Topics
- Discover the distinguished speakers who will present throughout the Agriculture conference 2026.
- Check the call for papers and submit your research for consideration.
- Learn about registration fees, benefits, and how to secure your spot as Attendee at The Agriculture Conference 2026.
- Explore the Agrico 2026 venue and travel details to plan your visit.
- See important dates and deadlines you should know.
- Find information about the scholarship program that may support you.