Students from the Faculty of Information Technology at the University of Petra won the "Best Innovation" award at the 7th International Jordanian Dates Festival 2025. The students received the award for their project "Palm Guard", which specializes in protecting date palm trees.

The university emphasized that this achievement reflects its approach to directing scientific knowledge toward creating practical solutions that serve food security and the national economy. It added that the Faculty of Information Technology provides a learning environment that links academic courses with real-world projects, employing modern technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT).

The team presented a prototype of a smart device that detects the Red Palm Weevil at its early stages, one of the most dangerous agricultural pests. The device integrates audio, vibration, and thermal indicators, analyzing them using AI algorithms to provide accurate predictions, enabling farmers to take rapid remedial action.

The winning team included Zaid Abu Al-Shaar, Abdul Rahman Al-Haimouni, and Abdul Rahman Al-Kurdi, under the supervision of Dr. Abdul Karim Al-Banna. Investors have contacted the team to explore funding opportunities and develop a commercial version of the device, alongside the students launching their startup company.

The festival was held under the patronage of His Majesty King Abdullah II, in cooperation with the Ministry of Agriculture, the Jordanian Dates Association, and the Khalifa International Award for Date Palm and Agricultural Innovation.