On January 22, 2026, the Faculty of Agriculture and Innovation, Walailak University, studied the horticultural operations of the Smart Farm Center, extracting lessons learned on “Crop Irrigation” through a fragrant coconut plantation at Walailak University.
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In the modern agricultural world, “water” is crucial for the survival and quality of crops. However, efficient irrigation isn’t simply about turning on the tap and watering based on feeling; it requires the science and art of systematic management. This is a major challenge for students in the Agriculture and Innovation program, School of Agricultural Technology and Food Industry, Walailak University, in the “Crop Irrigation” course.
From the classroom to real-world practice:
The heart of this course doesn’t stop at calculations on paper. Students will gain hands-on experience in a fragrant coconut plantation, a cash crop requiring meticulous water management to achieve sweet flavor and perfect fruit. Students will learn the entire process of irrigation. From: Crop Water Requirement Analysis: Calculating evapotranspiration to determine the daily water requirements of one coconut tree. Irrigation System Design: Studying the advantages and disadvantages of mini-sprinkler irrigation compared to other irrigation methods suitable for coconut tree root structures. Installation and Maintenance: Laying pipes, installing sprinkler heads, and learning to troubleshoot on-site issues such as inconsistent water pressure or clogged sprinkler heads.
Innovation-Driven: Precision Agriculture. A highlight of learning at Walailak University is the application of technology. Students will experience soil moisture sensors and controlling automated irrigation systems via smartphones, cultivating the skills of “Smart Farmers” who can manage water resources for optimal benefit and save energy costs.
The Result Beyond Knowledge: “Life Skills.” Practical training in fragrant coconut plantations refines students’ patience, planning abilities, and ability to work effectively with others. When faced with problems in the field, such as leaky pipes or plants showing signs of dehydration, students must use critical thinking to solve them immediately. “Because agriculture is a never-ending learning process, and the experience gained from hard work in the field is the most valuable lesson that cannot be found in textbooks.” Therefore, the Plant Irrigation course in the Agricultural Science and Innovation program at Walailak University is not just about teaching how to water plants, but about creating a new generation of agricultural professionals who are “academically proficient” with correct principles and “practically skilled” with applicable skills, to be a vital force in driving Thai agriculture into the future.
