Portuguese universities implement AI initiatives in education and agriculture

Two Portuguese polytechnic universities are advancing artificial intelligence integration within their respective sectors.

The Universidade Politécnica de Viana do Castelo (UNIPVC) has joined the Digital Education for Impact Alliance (DEFIA) Portugal Network. This national network focuses on the ethical, responsible, and sustainable use of AI in higher education. The initiative aims to foster collaboration between academic institutions to develop joint guidelines and best practices. UNIPVC has already implemented several resources, including usage guides for faculty and students and formal AI declarations to address the digital transformation of teaching, research, and knowledge production.

Meanwhile, the Universidade Politécnica de Portalegre (UPP) is developing the AI4PRIME project, which targets the primary sector. This initiative seeks to drive digital transformation in agriculture and livestock through efficient, low-energy AI solutions. Designed to function even in areas with limited internet access, the project utilizes electronic devices that process data locally. Funded by the European Regional Development Fund (FEDER), the project aims to mitigate rising production costs, labor shortages, and climate change impacts by automating processes and improving resource management.