President of Benha University Witnesses the Harvest of the Two Rice Strains “Bedaya 1” and “Bedaya 2” in Preparation for Registering Them as New High-Yield Varieties

Prof. Nasser El-Gizawy, President of Benha University, accompanied by prof. Taha Ashour, Vice President for Community Service and Environmental Development, witnessed the harvest of the evaluation fields of the two new rice strains “Bedaya 1” and “Bedaya 2” at the Faculty of Agriculture in Moshtohor. This took place as part of a research program that has continued for seven years, in preparation for completing the procedures for registering them after they proved their distinction in early maturity and high productivity.
The University President listened to a presentation by Dr. Saidhom Asaad Saidhom, the principal researcher of the program, covering the agricultural characteristics of the two strains and the results of the field trials. These results showed their ability to achieve high productivity within a shorter maturity period, thereby enhancing the opportunities to benefit from them in increasing rice production and rationalizing the use of agricultural resources.
El-Gizawy affirmed that the two strains represent a distinguished addition to the research outputs of the Faculty of Agriculture and reflect the ability of the university's researchers to develop new genetic compositions that meet the needs of the agricultural sector and keep pace with its challenges. He pointed to the university's commitment to supporting applied research that provides practical solutions contributing to increased production and the achievement of food security.
He added that the university seeks to maximize the benefit from research outputs through Bedaya Company for Marketing University Services, thereby contributing to transforming knowledge into tangible economic value that serves the community.
Dr. El-Sayed Khater, Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, explained that the official procedures required for registering the two strains are currently being undertaken through the university company, in preparation for including them among the approved commercial varieties after fulfilling the registration requirements.
At the conclusion of the visit, the University President stressed the importance of directing scientific research toward issues of sustainable development.
On the sidelines of the tour, Prof. Nasser El-Gizawy met a number of students from the Faculties of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine and held an open dialogue with them about their studies and academic and research interests. He listened to their views and suggestions regarding the development of the educational process and practical training, affirming the university's keenness to provide a stimulating educational environment that helps them acquire the necessary skills and expertise.