Mpumelelo Ntozakhe, a student in the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences (NAS) at the University of the Free State (UFS), has been announced as the 2025 Winner of the Young Agri Writers General Awards for his insightful article titled “Precision Agriculture: Revolutionizing Farming with Technology”. Ntozakhe is currently pursuing a Postgraduate Diploma in Sustainable Agriculture and serves as a Kovsie X Programmes Coordinator and Executive Producer. His award-winning article explores how technological innovation is transforming modern farming practices and contributing to sustainable agricultural production. The awards ceremony took place on 23 October 2025 at the Great Hall, Villa Arcadia, where young agricultural writers from across the country were celebrated for their contributions to the field.

Precision agriculture integrates modern technologies such as drones, GPS, sensors, and data analytics to improve farming efficiency and sustainability. Drones capture aerial images that help identify issues like pests, nutrient shortages, and irrigation needs, allowing targeted responses. GPS-guided machinery ensures accurate planting, fertilizer application, and water use, reducing waste and enhancing productivity. Meanwhile, sensors provide real-time data on soil conditions and crop health, enabling informed decision-making. These innovations not only increase crop yields but also promote environmental sustainability by conserving resources, minimizing chemical use, and supporting climate-resilient farming practices for a more productive agricultural future. Furthermore, the economic benefits of precision agriculture are significant. Higher yields reduced input costs, and better resource management result in improved profitability for farmers. This, in turn, can contribute to the long-term sustainability of farming operations, ensuring food security for a growing global population.

Ntozakhe highlighted that his decision to enter the competition was inspired by a deep passion for sustainable development and a commitment to extend my learning beyond the classroom furthermore, he sought to embody perseverance and to illustrate how agricultural knowledge can drive meaningful and lasting changes within our communities. Ntozakhe said “Winning has been an immensely rewarding experience. I feel humbled, inspired, and motivated to continue contributing positively to the agricultural sector and to my peers”.