Competing in the Green AI Poster Competition at the Dubai International Conference and Exhibition on Green Artificial Intelligence for a Green Planet (DICEGAI) empowered me to bridge my interests in sustainability, technology, and global impact. Organised by the Zayed International Foundation for the Environment in collaboration with Dubai Police and Curtin University Dubai, the event united researchers and professionals to explore how artificial intelligence can drive environmental solutions.
From public speaking to scientific discovery
My journey began earlier this year at the EEG 2025 public speaking competition, where I uncovered the critical role soil plays in addressing climate change. That insight sparked a desire to develop these ideas further. DICEGAI provided the perfect platform to transform these concepts into a creative and practical solution.
Throughout this process, I collaborated with Professor Chithirai Pon Selvan, whose mentorship challenged me to think more deeply about soil health and how technology can empower sustainable farming.
Imagine a solution: Developing LinkedRoots AI
I knew my solution had to place farmers at the heart of the conversation. While farmers form the backbone of developing economies, they often lack access to the technological tools that could benefit them most. I began investigating how AI could integrate into existing practices without requiring expensive new infrastructure.
This vision led to the development of LinkedRoots AI.
LinkedRoots AI is an SMS-based AI advisory system designed for rural farming communities with limited internet access. The system provides personalized guidance, answers daily farming questions, and delivers early alerts about weather changes and pest outbreaks. By providing timely, practical information, it empowers farmers to make informed decisions that strengthen both their livelihoods and long-term soil health.
A journey of innovation and collaboration
The first day of the conference was extraordinary. I was inspired by the diverse innovative solutions presented by fellow students and the enthusiasm with which they shared their visions. Engaging with participants helped me discover new perspectives on how AI can make tomorrow better. I especially valued exchanging ideas with conference attendees who visited my poster. Receiving professional feedback strengthened my confidence in the concept and helped me refine my critical thinking. The encouragement from friends also made the experience both rewarding and memorable.
Preparing for the jobs of the future
One of my main goals was to master my presentation skills and communicate complex ideas more effectively. Through this research, I uncovered sustainable solutions from around the world that broadened my perspective.
Studying Mechanical Engineering at Curtin University Dubai has fundamentally shaped my approach to these challenges. By exploring real-world applications in class, I have learned to look at global sustainability through a solution-focused lens. DICEGAI showed me how classroom learning translates into ideas that respond to real-world challenges.
I am grateful for the opportunity to participate in DICEGAI. It allowed me to challenge myself, grow as a communicator, and contribute to the sustainable solutions of tomorrow.
Written by Allyana Marie Engracial, Class of 2028
