July 2025
AARINENA, in partnership with Jordan’s National Agricultural Research Center (NARC), organized a specialized workshop focused on sustainable plant protection strategies. The event brought together international and local experts to discuss biocontrol innovations and alternatives to chemical pesticides.
Among the featured speakers was Professor Sabah A. Jassim, an internationally recognized expert in phage biocontrol and founder of Applied Bio Research Inc. in Windsor, Ontario, Canada. With a Ph.D. in microbiology and over three decades of experience in bacteriophage research, Professor Jassim has authored more than 180 scientific papers and holds over 40 international patents. His presentation, titled “Smart Biocontrol Solutions: Natural Defenders of a Resilient & Sustainable Agriculture System,” introduced the use of bacteriophages—natural viruses that target bacterial plant pathogens—as environmentally friendly tools for pest management in agriculture.
Also presenting was Professor Mohammad Al-Alawi of Al-Balqa Applied University in Jordan, a leading academic in the field of entomology and plant protection. With a long career in applied agricultural research and a history of organizing regional scientific conferences, Professor Al-Alawi focused on “Development of a Botanical Nematicide for the Safe Management of the Root Knot Nematode.” His talk highlighted the potential of plant-derived compounds as natural nematicides, offering a safer and more sustainable approach to managing one of the most harmful pests affecting crop roots.
The workshop underscored the importance of science-based innovation in advancing sustainable agriculture across the Near East and North Africa. It also emphasized the value of collaboration between regional institutions and international experts in developing practical solutions to agricultural challenges.
