by the University Innovation and Research Center
Saint Louis University’s Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (SLU-BSIT) fourth-year students made it to the Top 4 in the collegiate category of the prestigious Alfredo M. Yao Intellectual Property – AMY IP Awards 2023 last 2 October 2023 in the McKinley Town Center, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
The BSIT students presented their AI-driven Android Mobile Application called “LingapLupa,” drawn from an earthworm species identification of the same name in the heirloom rice terraces of Cordillera that uses Convolutional Neural Networks.
LingapLupa differentiates harmful earthworms from beneficial ones and helps maintain stable crop yields, potentially minimizing the risk of food insecurity and hunger, in accordance with SDG 2: Zero Hunger. It also protects the livelihood of farmers and drives economic growth by improving the productivity and sustainability of rice terraces, which is a crucial aspect for underserved farmers in the Philippines (SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth).
This innovation has significant social impacts aligned with various United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Integrating deep learning technology into agricultural practices demonstrates the potential of LingapLupa to address long-standing agricultural challenges, aligning with SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. In line with SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, LingapLupa contributes to the sustainable development of rural communities, particularly in the Cordillera Rice Terraces, by preserving its heritage and ecological value.
By educating farmers on the characteristics of harmful and non-harmful earthworms and assisting in informed decision-making, LingapLupa promotes SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production. Lastly, LingapLupa supports biodiversity conservation by helping farmers identify and regulate earthworm species that may harm the terraces’ ecosystem, contributing to ecosystem health, aligning with SDG 15: Life on Land.
The event started at 8:00 am with Ingress and the introduction of the Board of Judges commenced, featuring Dr. William S. Co and Mr. Antonio L. Sayo. The day continued with a series of presentations, followed by the announcement of grand winners and certificate distribution. Dr. William S. Co and Mr. Antonio L. Sayo delivered their closing remarks and concluded with Egress at 5:30 pm.
