Muscat – Two engineering students from Sohar University – Reem al Dhahouri and Al Zahraa al Maamari – have developed an innovative hydroponic farming project aimed at transforming agriculture in Oman.

The Smart Hydroponic Farming Project integrates advanced technology with local agricultural waste, reducing water and energy consumption while promoting environmental sustainability.

Hydroponics, a method that uses nutrient-rich water instead of soil, is known for improving water efficiency and boosting crop yields compared to traditional farming.

The students’ project goes further by using locally sourced agricultural waste as a sustainable growing medium, reducing the need for chemical fertilisers and minimising environmental impact.

The system incorporates artificial intelligence and smart sensors to optimise plant growth conditions. These sensors monitor temperature, humidity, water levels, and nutrient concentration, adjusting them in real-time.

The system also includes solar energy to power its operations, further enhancing its sustainability by reducing its carbon footprint.

“This hydroponic system uses a fraction of the water required by traditional farming methods, while also significantly cutting down on the need for fertilisers and pesticides,” said Reem.

“It’s a game-changer for farmers looking for a more sustainable way to grow their crops.”

The project’s smart sensors, interconnected through the Internet of Things (IoT), enable remote monitoring and control, reducing the need for manual labour and offering farmers greater control over their operations.

“This remote accessibility makes it especially attractive to tech-savvy farmers looking to streamline their practices,” added Reem.

The addition of solar panels to power the system strengthens the project’s environmental impact.

“By using solar panels to run the system, we’re not only reducing reliance on conventional energy sources but also minimising the carbon emissions associated with farming,” said Al Zahraa.

The initiative has received support from Sohar University, with Professor Rajamohan Natarajan and Abdulrahman al Shabli playing key roles in its development. Looking to the future, Reem and Al Zahraa aim to scale the project and make it commercially viable across Oman and the wider region.

“Our vision is to transform the hydroponic farming solution into a commercially viable product that not only enhances food security but also ensures sustainable farming practices for generations to come,” concluded Reem.