Amman, September 3 (Petra) – Chair of the Higher Council for Science and Technology Prince El Hassan bin Talal opened the Safawi Educational Centre for Soilless Agriculture and Innovation on Wednesday in the Jawa region of Jordan’s Northeastern Badia.

Prince El Hassan toured the centre’s facilities at the Safawi station, including areas designated for hydroponic and suspended agriculture.

He inspected renovated historical buildings housing seed storage rooms, scientific research areas, herbicide-free desert plants, climate monitoring equipment and exhibitions showcasing environmentally friendly handicrafts.

He called for fostering collaboration in agricultural and scientific research through partnerships and cumulative national efforts and increased coordination in agricultural projects and for the outcomes of expert consultations to be documented and utilised in shaping future solutions to environmental challenges.

“These consultative meetings,” he said, “should enhance the exchange of ideas, knowledge, and wisdom and lead to shared scientific solutions for environmental issues.”

Prince El Hassan urged transforming agricultural research into practical, economically viable projects that can support fragile communities vulnerable to climate change.

He urged prioritising the agricultural sector in investment plans, positioning it as a key driver of sustainable economic development.

He renewed his call for the establishment of a comprehensive, knowledge-based information database that links historical and modern agricultural practices while maintaining accuracy and optimising the use of information.

Prince El Hassan called for integrated cooperation across the water, food, energy and biosystems sectors. He advocated for empowering women in agriculture, supporting youth-led initiatives and passing down agricultural knowledge and heritage to future generations.

He underscored the relevance of studying historical agricultural practices to develop sustainable responses to today’s climate challenges and strengthen future climate resilience.

Mohammed Wadiyan, Director of the National Centre for Research and Development, noted that the centre is implementing a range of awareness and development projects, including hydroponic and suspended agriculture, rainwater harvesting and the cultivation of native desert plants.

He emphasised the centre’s commitment to supporting local communities.

The inauguration was attended by agricultural experts, academics, archaeologists and a number of current and former military officials.

//Petra// AK
03/09/2025 18:37:09