Moldova’s UTM launches smart agriculture specialization
Smart agriculture is the newest specialization available at the Technical University of Moldova (UTM). The program offers students the opportunity to master digital technologies in farming, aiming to train experts capable of implementing innovations that enhance productivity and sustainability across the country’s agricultural sector.
"We are launching the Smart Agriculture specialty, focusing on digitalization, remote monitoring, and automation—a novelty that must be integrated into our national landscape. Our goal is to prepare the best students for the most vital sector of our economy," stated Sergiu Popa, Dean of the Faculty of Agricultural, Forestry, and Environmental Sciences at UTM, during Radio Moldova’s "Zi de Zi" program.
According to Dean Popa, the number of students choosing agricultural studies has grown by 10-15% annually over the last three years. Most of these young people come from rural areas, often bringing their own business ideas.
"Many seek to continue their family businesses. We have students in field crops, but also a significant number in horticulture and viticulture, following in the footsteps of parents who produce fruit or wine. We also see interest in vegetable growing, food safety, and animal husbandry—the latter experiencing a resurgence with about 50 students currently enrolled. Another impactful program launched in 2023 is Agribusiness and Rural Development. While growth in forestry is more modest, we are encouraged that numbers are rising overall, especially as many young people consider moving abroad. Seeing them choose local education is a very positive sign," the Dean noted.
Furthermore, Popa emphasized the essential competencies required to develop modern agriculture in the face of climate change.
"The competencies are diverse, but they share a common goal: high-performance, real-world farming. Beyond quantity, we are focusing on quality and alignment with the European market, as our future lies in that direction. Students must master innovative crop varieties and cultivation technologies. We must prioritize sustainable agriculture; if we only think of current profits and ignore our children's future, the entire sector will suffer," Sergiu Popa concluded.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
