How is AI transforming global food security?

Originally published on April 9, 2025

Overview

Agriculture is essential to global food security, but farmers face challenges such as soil degradation, pest infestations, and invasive weeds that threaten productivity and livelihoods. Some researchers think that AI can help overcome these challenges, but how? In this lesson, students will explore how AI is revolutionizing agriculture by improving efficiency, sustainability, and resilience. Students will also examine the benefits and limitations of AI in agriculture, considering its impact on farmers, the environment, and global food production.

AI & Science
60 minutes

Created by 'Joba Adisa
Adapted by Chris Mah

Digital Materials

Teacher guide

Objectives

After this experience, students will be able to

Explain the key challenges in modern agriculture.
Describe how AI is being used to improve agricultural practices, including pest control, crop monitoring, and precision farming.
Evaluate the benefits and limitations of AI in agriculture, considering economic, environmental, and social factors.

Questions explored

What are the key challenges in modern agriculture, and how do they impact global food security?
How can AI help to solve these challenges?
What new challenges or risks does AI present when applied to agriculture?

Key Terms

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

The ability of computers to imitate human-like thinking, learning, and problem-solving.

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