2025/11/04 - 03:36 PM13/Jumada Al-Ula/1447 - 18:36
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The University of Tabuk, represented by the Department of Biology in the College of Science and in cooperation with the National Center for Plant Pest and Animal Disease Prevention and Control (Wiqa), participated in the volunteer initiative “Pioneers of Prevention.” The initiative aims to detect diseases and pests affecting olive trees and to promote proper methods for their care in the Tabuk region.
The event took place on Monday, October 28, 2025, at the Tadco Hall of the Tabuk Agricultural Development Company. The Department of Biology invited faculty members and students to take part in the initiative, reinforcing the University’s commitment to community service and its efforts to enhance agricultural awareness among students and participants.
Dr. Mohammed Arab, Supervisor of the Scientific Research Unit at the College of Science, coordinated with the Wiqa Center and encouraged student participation. The event attracted over 120 students and several faculty members who contributed through specialized lectures and scientific presentations.
These sessions addressed the latest methods for diagnosing and sustainably managing olive tree diseases and pests, while also emphasizing environmental awareness and sound agricultural practices among farmers and those interested in the agricultural sector.
Dr. Munifa Al-Anzi, Associate Professor of Microbiology, delivered a lecture titled “Microbial Control of Agricultural Pests,” in which she discussed major plant pathogens—including bacteria, viruses, and fungi—and reviewed plant-based methods for disease control.
Following this, Dr. Duaa Darwish, Associate Professor of Microbiology, presented a lecture titled “Learning About Olives,” highlighting the olive tree’s economic and environmental importance, sustainable production practices, and the most common diseases affecting olive trees and their impact on yields.
Lecturer Iman Jamal from the Department of Biology provided an overview of olive tree pests and diseases and discussed modern diagnostic techniques, emphasizing the significance of community awareness and scientific research in preserving this vital agricultural resource.
In addition, Dr. Fahd Al-Zuaiber presented a specialized scientific talk, while Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Asmari and Dr. Abdulaziz Al-Dhibyani contributed to preparing the scientific posters displayed during the event.
Following the lectures, the University of Tabuk team conducted a field visit to local olive groves, where they examined soil characteristics, monitored tree health, and observed care practices in collaboration with Wiqa Center specialists.
At the end of the event, Engineer Nasser Al-Atawi, Director of the National Center for Plant Pest and Animal Disease Prevention and Control, presented a commemorative shield to the University of Tabuk team in recognition of their active participation and valuable contributions to the success of the initiative.
This participation reflects the University of Tabuk’s commitment to strengthening its research and community engagement roles, supporting national initiatives that advance agricultural awareness, and contributing to the development of the agricultural sector and environmental sustainability—aligned with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 in promoting food security and innovation in agriculture.