Students from universities across the country recently participated in the highly competitive 2025 3-Minute Thesis (3MT) Competition, organized by the Association of Nepalese Agricultural Professionals of America (NAPA). Kentucky State University Research Associate Sandeep Airee earned First Place in the event.

Airee’s presentation, “Healthy Soils and Clean Water in Kentucky,” addressed one of agriculture’s most significant challenges: balancing productivity with environmental protection. His research examines how fertility management practices affect soil health and water quality in Kentucky’s farming systems, framed around the urgent question: How can we grow healthy crops while keeping our water clean?

“These results matter because with too little fertilizer, we risk yield, and with too much, we risk polluting our water,” Airee explained. “My research is about finding that balance so Kentucky’s farms can be both productive and sustainable, helping farmers choose the right fertility practices.”

Airee works as a research associate under Dr. Pamela Obura, assistant professor of soil and plant science. In this role, he also trains graduate students on advanced laboratory instruments, including the Autosorb Surface Area Analyzer and the Dual Channel Ion Chromatograph. This work equips students with valuable technical skills for analyzing soil and water samples and strengthens the University’s research capacity.

Dr. Buddhi Gyawali, professor of applied geography and geospatial applications at Kentucky State University and a member of NAPA, praised Airee’s accomplishment.

“Sandeep’s achievement reflects his research excellence and his ability to communicate complex science in clear and compelling ways,” Dr. Gyawali said. “We are proud of his success and his contributions to advancing soil and water quality research at Kentucky State University.”

Reflecting on the recognition, Airee said the competition gave him a meaningful opportunity to share how research at Kentucky State is addressing real-world challenges for farmers and communities. “I am deeply honored to receive this award from NAPA,” he said. “I am especially grateful to NAPA for this platform and to my university for supporting me with the resources needed to carry out this work.”

This recognition not only highlights Airee’s ability to present complex research in a concise format but also underscores Kentucky State University’s commitment to advancing solutions that benefit agriculture while protecting natural resources.