The international mobility within the THERMA-SAT FARMING project, held in Sardinia from March 30 to April 5, 2025, proved to be an inspiring week filled with learning, practical experience, and cultural exchange. The event gathered delegations from Poland, Italy, Turkey, Romania, and Croatia, creating a dynamic environment for collaboration and knowledge sharing in the field of precision agriculture and drone technologies.
Hands-on drone training and data analysis
A key element of the mobility was the practical training on drone route programming and terrain mapping. Participants had the opportunity to:
- Take part in an off-road expedition to Monte Fumai, where they mapped the area using drones;
- Analyse collected data during a workshop at ISTITUTO TECNICO COMMERCIALE “G. P. CHIRONI”;
- Conduct practical exercises at La Caletta beach, testing their skills in drone piloting and visual data collection.
The analysis of drone imagery from Monti and Monte Fumai provided valuable insights into how drone technology can support modern farming. Participants explored the use of aerial photography for determining optimal sowing times, monitoring predator threats, optimising the use of plant protection products, and even counting animals in the fields.
International cooperation and cultural immersion
Beyond technical activities, the mobility also offered a rich cultural programme. Delegates visited the Sardinian Costume and Tradition Museum in Nuoro, discovered the famous murals of Orgosolo, and enjoyed local cuisine and breathtaking landscapes of the island.
The exchange of experiences with international peers enriched the participants’ perspectives and fostered stronger international bonds. The event also underlined the importance of increasing activity on the project website and encouraged participants to subscribe via email for updates on new materials.
Next steps and future plans
During the mobility, important project decisions were made, including:
- Scheduling upcoming mobilities:
- Antalya, Turkey (September 10–13, 2025) for four teachers;
- Dragosani, Romania (November 16–22, 2025) for three teachers and five students.
- Recommending the purchase of 10 DJI Terra software licenses for project partners.
- Committing each school to train 20 students for A1 and A3 drone pilot licenses.
- Setting the deadline for Module 1 and Module 2 by the end of June 2025, including:
- PDF documentation,
- Instructional videos in English and native languages,
- Knowledge assessment tests for students.
A special follow-up lesson for all students involved in the project is also planned, likely on April 14, 2025, led by Kamil Frukacz with the support of Piotr Sokół and Rafał Komorowski. The session will provide an opportunity to share fresh insights and revisit the practical exercises conducted in Sardinia. Notably, the Sardinian student delegation will also take part in this lesson, further strengthening the international collaboration.
Conclusion
The Sardinian mobility of the THERMA-SAT FARMING project was an invaluable experience, combining technical training with cultural discovery. It provided students and teachers alike with new skills in drone operation, data analysis, and precision agriculture while fostering meaningful international friendships. The knowledge and materials gathered will continue to benefit the project community, supporting the growth of competencies and the successful continuation of future activities.