imd in Tunisia
Harnessing the power of beneficial microorganisms to build a climate-resilient, sustainable agricultural future
When: 11 - 16 September
Time: 10:00 - 14:00
Where: Regional Centre of Agricultural Research of Sidi Bouzid, Tunisia / Virtual
This event explores beneficial microorganisms for climate-resilient farming in arid regions like Tunisia and North Africa. Featuring keynote speakers, a panel, and presentations by young researchers, the four-hour online session (10:00–14:00 Tunis time) is open to students, researchers, and agricultural professionals across the region.
The objectives of this event is to:
i) Commemorate International Microorganism Day and raise awareness of the role of beneficial microorganisms in agriculture, soil health, and climate resilience
ii) Highlight current research on microbial biofertilizers, biopesticides, and plant growth-promoting microorganisms relevant to Tunisian and Mediterranean agriculture;
iii) Promote nature-based, microbiome-driven solutions as sustainable alternatives to chemical fertilizers and pesticides;
iv) Strengthen scientific dialogue on climate change adaptation strategies for arid and semi-arid farming systems;
v) Provide a platform for students and young researchers to present their work and engage with senior scientists;
vi) Foster collaboration among agricultural research centers, universities, and extension services across the region.
Programme of the day:
10:00 – 10:10 Opening & Welcome Remarks Dr. Lobna Hajji-Hedfi
10:10 – 10:20 Institutional Address Representative, Regional Centre of Agricultural Research of Sidi Bouzid
10:20 – 10:45 Keynote 1: “Beneficial Microorganisms as Nature-Based Solutions Against Climate Change”
10:45 – 11:10 Keynote 2: “Microbial Biofertilizers and Biopesticides for Sustainable Agriculture”
11:10 – 11:30 Break / Networking
11:30 – 12:00 Panel Discussion: “Scaling Beneficial Microorganisms for Climate-Resilient Farming in North Africa”
12:00 – 12:30 Invited Talk: “Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) & Mycorrhizal Fungi in Arid/Semi-Arid Agriculture”
12:30 – 13:00 Student & Young Researcher Presentations
13:00 – 13:20 Poster / Research Highlights Showcase
13:20 – 13:40 Q&A and Open Discussion
13:40 – 13:55 Awards & Certificate Announcement
13:55 – 14:00 Closing Remarks Dr. Lobna Hajji-Hedfi
