As part of the events organized by Kırşehir Ahi Evran University to mark its 20th anniversary, the “Academy in the Field” program brought together faculty members from the Faculty of Agriculture with producers in Çiçekdağı district to share scientific knowledge and experience regarding the future of agriculture and animal husbandry.

The event, organized by the University Corporate Communications Coordination Office Science Communications Office, was held on February 12, 2026, at the Çiçekdağı Vocational School Conference Hall. The program was attended by our University Rector Prof. Dr. Mustafa Kasım Karahocagil, Çiçekdağı District Governor Durdu Yavuz Öğüt, Çiçekdağı District Gendarmerie Commander Lieutenant Selim Yağan, Çiçekdağı Deputy Mayor Muhammet Pişkin, academic and administrative staff, students, and local farmers.

During the panel discussion titled “Agriculture and Development: Sustainable Field Crop Cultivation and Animal Feeding” held as part of the program, academics from the Faculty of Agriculture made important assessments on the region's agricultural potential, water management, animal husbandry, and sustainable production.

Prof. Dr. Rüştü Hatipoğlu was the first to speak at the panel, emphasizing that the efficient and correct use of water resources is a critical factor in agricultural productivity. Highlighting the importance of modern irrigation techniques, Hatipoğlu stated that not only the amount of water but also its use at the right time and with methods appropriate to the soil structure directly affects production efficiency.

Then, Associate Professor Ramazan Ayrancı emphasized the importance of proper production methods in agriculture and animal husbandry, explaining the necessity of selecting products suitable for the region's climatic conditions. While addressing the challenges of dry farming, Ayrancı also evaluated the advantages offered by irrigated farming practices that make efficient use of water. He also stated that the misuse of agricultural land could lead to significant problems in the long term.

Prof. Dr. Emre Şirin stated that, in light of current data on animal husbandry and considering the geographical characteristics of Kırşehir, small livestock farming has significant potential for the region. Şirin emphasized that closed-system livestock farming, which is more suitable for regional conditions than open grazing, could offer significant advantages in terms of productivity.

The final speaker of the panel, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ertuğrul Kul, drew attention to the fact that food supply security is becoming increasingly critical. Stating that countries will place greater importance on food production as a strategic element in the future, Kul touched upon the importance of shifting to animal species with low water requirements in regions with limited water resources, such as Kırşehir. He also mentioned that technical support continues to be provided to producers through the Farmer Advisory Line established within the university.

During the question-and-answer session of the program, farmers asked questions to the Faculty of Agriculture academics on topics such as the possible effects of the Climate Law on agriculture, the reclamation of soils with high pH values, and fallow practices. The academics answered the producers' questions and offered practical suggestions for increasing agricultural productivity.

At the end of the program, certificates of appreciation were presented to the Faculty of Agriculture faculty members who participated in the panel. The event concluded with conversations and discussions held in the foyer area.