The Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin, has embraced commercial agriculture, as part of a broader strategy to strengthen practical education, promote food security, and generate sustainable income.
Speaking with journalists during the maiden harvest at the institution’s commercial farm in Ilorin, the Rector, Dr. Abdul Jimoh Mohammed, said the initiative marks the beginning of a long-term investment aimed at transforming the polytechnic into a centre for agricultural innovation and entrepreneurship. He said the institution is already cultivating cassava and maize on a large scale while expanding into cocoa and oil palm plantations to ensure continuous returns for the school.
While commending the state government for supporting with provision of agricultural equipment, the rector disclosed that the institution plans to process its farm produce into finished products through its Department of Food Science and Technology. He revealed that students are directly involved in the farming project as part of their practical training, adding that the proceeds from the cassava harvest would be reinvested to expand the farming project.
Earlier, the Chairperson of the school’s Commercial Farm, Engr. Ruth Modupe Bayeri, described the maiden cassava harvest as a landmark achievement for the institution. She expressed appreciation to the management of the school for supporting the initiative, and expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the project.
Bayeri added that this commercial success would encourage the expansion of farming activities, and further position the institution as a model for agricultural innovation and sustainable income generation among tertiary institutions in Nigeria.
Leave a comment