Emphasizing the necessity of developing greenhouse cultivation within the province, the President of the University of Kurdistan announced the forthcoming establishment of a smart greenhouse unit by the university.

According to the Public Relations Office of the University of Kurdistan, Dr. Adel Siosemarde stated on Monday, June 8, at the 14th Iranian Horticultural Science Congress hosted by the university: "The selection of the University of Kurdistan as the host for this congress signifies the province's immense potential and the university's scientific heritage in the field of horticulture."

He noted that beyond horticultural production, Kurdistan Province is one of Iran's most significant habitats for medicinal plants, adding that of the approximately 2,500 plant species identified in the province, more than 150 possess recognized medicinal value.

Highlighting the province's climatic diversity and high capacity for agricultural production, the President of the University of Kurdistan stated that approximately 3.7 million tons of various agricultural products are produced annually in the province, accounting for 30% of employment and 20% of the province's economic value added.

He further pointed out the province's high capacity for horticultural production, noting that despite possessing unique potential, Kurdistan still ranks in the lower half of the country's provinces in terms of horticultural output. This, he emphasized, indicates undeveloped potential that must be harnessed through rigorous scientific planning.

Referring to the exceptional opportunities provided by the Sairanband (Baneh) and Bashmaq (Mariwan) borders for the export of agricultural products, he mentioned that the proximity to the Kurdistan Region of Iraq offers a significant market for high-quality products that has yet to be fully exploited.

Dr. Siosemarde continued: "Given the current climatic conditions of Kurdistan Province, greenhouse cultivation has acquired a strategic importance." He concluded by stating that in line with the objective of developing greenhouse agriculture, the University of Kurdistan intends to launch a smart greenhouse unit.