Agricultural Engineering Podcast

Agricultural Engineering Podcast
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This podcast is brought to you by agricultural engineering professionals who are members of the South African Institute of Agricultural Engineers. The Royal Academy of Engineering funded the podcast to provide current and topical information and interviews on various subjects in the agricultural engineering field, such as agricultural mechanization, precision agriculture, renewable energy, food packaging, soil conservation, hydrology and dams, and more. Our podcast features interviews with South African experts worldwide, as well as undergraduate and postgraduate experiences and research. You can find us on Amazon Music, Apple and Google podcasts, and Spotify to listen. Please follow us, subscribe, and share the Agricultural Engineering podcast with your friends and colleagues. We release new episodes once a month, and you can reach us at senzo@saiae.co.za  with any comments or suggestions. Don't forget to follow us on Facebook (South African Institute of Agricultural Engineers) and LinkedIn (South African Institute of Agricultural Engineers) for update

Episodes

  1. AI That Grades: How Two Students Built an Automated Marking System - S2E2

    MAY 19

    AI That Grades: How Two Students Built an Automated Marking System - S2E2

    In this episode, we sit down with young South African innovators Gustav Heesen and Johan Vorster, along with their parents, Heinrich and Lianne, to discuss their remarkable invention, "Expobot". We dive into how they used N8N, Docker, and AI to build an accessible, fully automated test-marking system designed to help teachers in overcrowded classrooms get their time back, delivering personalised student feedback with an impressive 95% accuracy rate. We also celebrate their incredible journey, from being the first Grade 7 learners ever to be named Overall Winners of the Gauteng North Imbewu Science Fair and placing as Second Runner-Up at the National Imbewu SAYESS, to earning an exclusive invitation to represent South Africa at the 2026 Genius Olympiad in Rochester, New York. Applied engineering and STEM enthusiasts will truly value hearing how these brilliant minds leveraged digital innovation to solve a practical, real-world problem. Support Gustav and Johan’s Journey to New York! We are helping the family spread the word to people who care about STEM, education, young innovators, and practical support for South African learners. They are currently running a BackaBuddy campaign to raise approximately R120 000 to cover travel and participation costs for the students. If you'd like to support the next generation of STEM innovators, any exposure helps, and even small donations make a massive difference! Helpful Links & Contact Info: Donate here: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/genius-olympiad-finalists-help-us-get-thereWatch the Project Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YN_rT_ieRNU Get in Touch: For CSI, philanthropy, or innovation support, you can reach the parents directly. Lianne Heesen can be contacted at 082 094 3681, and Heinrich Heesen at 072 211 3960.Send us Fan Mail Support the show By the South African Institute of Agricultural Engineers

    17 min
  2. A Journey of a Professional Irrigation Engineer - S2E1

    APR 14

    A Journey of a Professional Irrigation Engineer - S2E1

    In this episode of the Agricultural Engineering Podcast, we explore the career of Isobel van der Stoep, a professionally registered Agricultural Engineer with over 25 years of experience. From her early days contributing to the Irrigation Design Manual and the National Water Act of 1998 to her current role managing tens of thousands of hectares of sugarcane estates across Africa. Isobel's story is a masterclass in professional growth and technical leadership. You can find her on LinkedIn as Isobel van der Stoep, https://www.linkedin.com/in/isobel-van-der-stoep-5018b846/  SABI Magazine, https://sabi.co.za/magazine/ Contact us on: senzo@saiae.co.za Send us Fan Mail Support the show By the South African Institute of Agricultural Engineers

    44 min
  3. Perspectives on Agricultural Mechanisation During the Fourth Industrial Revolution - S1E10

    01/31/2025

    Perspectives on Agricultural Mechanisation During the Fourth Industrial Revolution - S1E10

    This episode features a conversation between Dr Udhav Maharaj and Mr. Charles Nicklin, the CEO of the Institution of Agricultural Engineers (IAgrE), United Kingdom. Their discussion revolves around the evolution of agricultural mechanization over time, exploring its advantages for consumers as well as its potential drawbacks. Mr Nicklin can be found on LinkedIn as Charles Nicklin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-nicklin-bba7b63/?originalSubdomain=uk Send us Fan Mail Support the show By the South African Institute of Agricultural Engineers

    26 min
  4. The Role of Agricultural Engineers in Mechanising Smallholder Farmers - S1E9

    01/27/2025

    The Role of Agricultural Engineers in Mechanising Smallholder Farmers - S1E9

    This episode feauters Dr Maharaj and Mr David Moore from Ireland. Mr Moore, who is the co-founder of Regerators, is currently based in Ethiopia to launch smallholder farmers mechanisation-based initiatives. Send us Fan Mail Support the show By the South African Institute of Agricultural Engineers

    35 min
  5. The Role of Agricultural Engineers in Mechanization and Modernization of Agriculture - S1E8

    01/22/2025

    The Role of Agricultural Engineers in Mechanization and Modernization of Agriculture - S1E8

    In our latest episode, Dr. Maharaj interviewed Professor Srivasta from the Department of Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering at Michigan State University, United States of America. The professor shared his journey to becoming an Agricultural Engineer and discussed his current work in the field of mechanisation. This role has enabled him to engage in various projects across Africa, including efforts to modernise agricultural practices. You can find Dr Srivasta on the MSU website: https://www.canr.msu.edu/people/srivasta Send us Fan Mail Support the show By the South African Institute of Agricultural Engineers

    28 min
  6. The Role of Agricultural Engineers in Aquaculture and Hydroponics Farming Fields - S1E7

    11/20/2024

    The Role of Agricultural Engineers in Aquaculture and Hydroponics Farming Fields - S1E7

    We had a conversation with Tumiso Ngoepe, a certified professional engineer (ECSA) from Limpopo, about Aquaculture and Hydroponics. She shared information regarding various projects she has been involved in, including the Ntompi Seleka aquaculture initiative. You can find Tumiso on LinkeIn as : Tumiso Ngoepe (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tumiso-ngoepe-328793170/) Send us Fan Mail Support the show By the South African Institute of Agricultural Engineers

    57 min
  7. The Role of Agricultural Engineers in Energy for Agricultural Practices - S1E6

    10/10/2024

    The Role of Agricultural Engineers in Energy for Agricultural Practices - S1E6

    This episode features Mr Louis Lagrange discussing agricultural engineers' involvement in the energy sector. He stresses the importance of continuous education for engineers to develop expertise in energy-related fields. Additionally, Mr Lagrange highlights circular economy as a key approach to enhancing energy efficiency in engineering designs. Courses mentioned during the interview: 1. Fundamentals of Energy Management Opportunities in Agriculture - https://saiae.co.za/cpd-courses-webinars/. 2. Certified Energy manager course:  https://www.saeeconfed.org.za/certified-energy-manager-cem/ You can find Louis on Linked in as, Louis Lagrange (https://www.linkedin.com/in/louis-lagrange-0808825a/) Circular economy webinars that are taking place in October 2024 https://www.linkedin.com/posts/african-circular-economy-network_circulareconomy-activity-7245024402260606976-_Cxq/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop Send us Fan Mail Support the show By the South African Institute of Agricultural Engineers

    49 min
  8. Women in Engineering - S1E5

    09/13/2024

    Women in Engineering - S1E5

    This episode features Ms Faith Mdhluli, the Director of Sustainable Resource Management at Mpumalanga Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs, who discusses the role of women in Engineering. As a Mandela Washington fellow, Ms. Mdhluli offers valuable insights based on her extensive experience in a field traditionally dominated by men. She provides guidance and advice for women aspiring to pursue engineering careers, drawing from her own journey in overcoming obstacles in this profession. You can find her on LinkedIn as Faith Mdhluli. https://www.linkedin.com/in/faith-mdhluli-pmp-mba-07885780/ For any questions related to the Agricultural Engineering podcast contact Senzo on senzo@saiae.co.za.  Send us Fan Mail Support the show By the South African Institute of Agricultural Engineers

    58 min
  9. The Role of Agricultural Engineers in Flood Prediction and Management - S1E4

    08/02/2024

    The Role of Agricultural Engineers in Flood Prediction and Management - S1E4

    Ever wondered how agricultural engineers are revolutionizing the way we predict and manage floods? Join us for a captivating conversation with Dr. Maharaj, an Agricultural Engineering PhD graduate specialising in hydrological engineering and Modelling as he walks us through his groundbreaking research on improving flood prediction accuracy. Explore the challenges and triumphs faced by Dr Maharaj during his PhD journey, from navigating external challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic to employing cutting-edge real-time data collection methods such as satellites and drones, Dr. Maharaj shares personal anecdotes highlighting the resilience required in this field. This chapter is a testament to the invaluable support of academic and personal networks in overcoming obstacles and advancing scientific research. You can find him on LinkedIn as: Dr Udhav Maharaj, PhD /https://www.linkedin.com/in/udhavmaharaj/ For any questions related to the Agricultural Engineering podcast contact Senzo on senzo@saiae.co.za.  Send us Fan Mail Support the show By the South African Institute of Agricultural Engineers

    33 min
  10. Role of Agricultural Engineers in Food Processing - S1E3

    07/11/2024

    Role of Agricultural Engineers in Food Processing - S1E3

    Join us for an engaging dialogue with Jan-Paul Smit on the essential role of engineers in food processing. You can find Jan-Paul Smit on  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jan-paul-smit-370612113/ For any questions related to the Agricultural Engineering podcast contact Senzo on senzo@saiae.co.za.  Send us Fan Mail Support the show By the South African Institute of Agricultural Engineers

    47 min
  11. An Overview of Agricultural Engineering - S1E2

    06/20/2024

    An Overview of Agricultural Engineering - S1E2

    Tune in for an insightful discussion providing an overview of the field of Agricultural Engineering, including an exclusive interview with Ms. Ipeleng Maroo-Maseko. You can find Ipeleng on  LinkedIn as Keamogetsoe(Ipeleng): https://www.linkedin.com/in/keamogetsoe-ipeleng-maroo-maseko-01053914/ For any questions related to the Agricultural Engineering podcast contact Senzo on senzo@saiae.co.za.  Send us Fan Mail Support the show By the South African Institute of Agricultural Engineers

    57 min
  12. Welcome to the Agricultural Engineering Podcast - S1E1

    SEASON 1, EPISODE 1 TRAILER

    Welcome to the Agricultural Engineering Podcast - S1E1

    Welcome to the Agricultural Engineering podcast! This podcast is brought to you by agricultural engineering professionals who are members of the South African Institute of Agricultural Engineers. The Royal Academy of Engineering funded the podcast to provide current and topical information and interviews on various subjects in the agricultural engineering field, such as agricultural mechanization, precision agriculture, renewable energy, food packaging, soil conservation, hydrology and dams, and more. Our podcast features interviews with South African experts worldwide, as well as undergraduate and postgraduate experiences and research. You can find us on Amazon music, Apple and Google Podcasts, and Spotify to listen. Please follow us, subscribe, and share the Agricultural Engineering podcast with your friends and colleagues. We release new episodes once a month, and you can reach us at senzo@saiae.co.za  with any comments or suggestions. Don't forget to follow us on Facebook (South African Institute of Agricultural Engineers) and LinkedIn (South African Institute of Agricultural Engineers) for update Send us Fan Mail Support the show By the South African Institute of Agricultural Engineers

    2 min

Trailer

About

This podcast is brought to you by agricultural engineering professionals who are members of the South African Institute of Agricultural Engineers. The Royal Academy of Engineering funded the podcast to provide current and topical information and interviews on various subjects in the agricultural engineering field, such as agricultural mechanization, precision agriculture, renewable energy, food packaging, soil conservation, hydrology and dams, and more. Our podcast features interviews with South African experts worldwide, as well as undergraduate and postgraduate experiences and research. You can find us on Amazon Music, Apple and Google podcasts, and Spotify to listen. Please follow us, subscribe, and share the Agricultural Engineering podcast with your friends and colleagues. We release new episodes once a month, and you can reach us at senzo@saiae.co.za  with any comments or suggestions. Don't forget to follow us on Facebook (South African Institute of Agricultural Engineers) and LinkedIn (South African Institute of Agricultural Engineers) for update

Information

  • Creator
    Agricultural Engineering Podcast
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    12
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Agricultural Engineering Podcast
  • Show Website
    Agricultural Engineering Podcast