Two PhD Scholars at SALU Khairpur Develop AI Systems to Boost Agricultural Productivity
Two PhD Scholars at SALU Khairpur Develop AI Systems to Boost Agricultural Productivity
27-02-2026
Press Release
In a significant advancement for Pakistan's agricultural sector, two PhD scholars at Shah Abdul Latif University (SALU), Khairpur, have successfully developed innovative artificial intelligence systems aimed at transforming date fruit processing and sugarcane disease detection.
The Institute of Computer Science at SALU hosted the open defense seminars of Mr. Abdul Khalique and Mr. Aijaz Ahmed, whose research addresses critical challenges faced by local farmers and the agricultural industry.
The session was presided over by Vice Chancellor Meritorious Professor Dr. Yousuf Khushk, who declared both defenses successful after considering recommendations from a distinguished panel of experts.
Addressing the gathering, Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Yousuf Khushk emphasized the importance of research that directly benefits society. "The topic was very interesting, and I listened to and witnessed the entire presentation. This is a learning process," he stated.
"I am looking for patents from such research. I want to see the impact of this research on society. The nation is looking for quality research. What is the role of research if it is not related to society and not impacting communities?" Dr. Khushk added.
The Vice Chancellor revealed that the university has already signed a memorandum of understanding regarding date palm research, noting that Khairpur contributes a major portion of the country's date production. This strategic focus on local agricultural products demonstrates the university's commitment to addressing regional economic priorities.
Mr. Abdul Khalique, worked under the supervision of Professor Dr. Riaz Ahmed Shaikh, has developed an intelligent system that automates date fruit processing through three critical stages: identifying varieties, sorting by size, and grading quality.
The research compared various AI models to determine the most effective approach. Traditional machine learning algorithms achieved an impressive 99.3% accuracy in classifying date varieties, matching the performance of more complex neural networks. The system proved particularly effective for popular varieties such as Aseel dates, which are widely cultivated in the region.
For size sorting, the technology demonstrated exceptional precision, correctly identifying small and large dates with F1-scores of 0.98 and 0.97 respectively. While some mid-sized categories posed challenges, researchers have identified areas for future improvement. Quality grading performed consistently well, though premium grade dates with subtle visual differences may require further refinement.
Meanwhile, Mr. Aijaz Ahmed, completed his research under supervision of Dr Rafaqat Arain and Dr Hidayatullah Shaikh, has designed a sophisticated system to detect diseases in sugarcane plants using deep learning techniques. Given Pakistan's position among the world's top ten sugar producers, with sugarcane being crucial for sugar, biofuel, and industrial applications, this research holds significant national importance.
Diseases like red rot and leaf scald currently cause substantial crop losses annually across the country. Traditional disease detection relies heavily on manual inspection, which is not only time-consuming but also requires specialized knowledge that many farmers lack. The new AI-based system analyzes leaf images to identify diseases early, enabling faster intervention and potentially saving valuable crops.
Both innovations offer practical solutions for Pakistan's agricultural sector, potentially helping farmers reduce losses, improve product quality, and increase their competitiveness in local and international markets. The integration of artificial intelligence into traditional farming practices represents a significant step forward for agricultural technology in the country.
Speaking on the occasion, Pro-Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Wahid Bux Jatoi remarked, "We witnessed the open defense, and the topic is interesting with a good presentation. It is all about integrating machine learning into agriculture."
Dean of the Faculty of Physical Sciences, Professor Dr. Noor Ahmed Shaikh, commented, "We had a good presentation, and it was vigorous. There is always room for improvement. The advantage of an open defense is learning. Besides the output of research like papers, we need products for society. I will recommend both candidates for the PhD degree to the higher authority."
The defense sessions were attended by a distinguished panel of experts, including Professor Dr. Zahid Abro, who has suggested to develop an application for date fruit identification, Professor Dr. Ihsanullah Abro, Professor Hussain Abro, and Professor Kamran Hussain.
Faculty members present included Director of the Institute of Computer Science Professor Dr. Samina Rajpar, Director Professor Dr Khalida Mahar, Professor Dr. Javed Ahmed Mahar, Professor Dr. Riaz Hussain Shaikh, Dr. Sahib Oad, Dr. Aijaz Ali Shar and others.
Media Section
Shah Abdul Latif University, Khairpur
