FOOD SECURITY: BOUESTI TAKES BOLD STEPS TO BOOST FOOD PRODUCTION

In a bold but commendable move to boost food production, the Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere-Ekiti has taken decisive action to tackle the pressing issue of food security and the escalating prices of essential food items in its environs arising from shortage in supply. With a vision that extends beyond the classroom, the institution has embarked on an ambitious agricultural project aimed at cultivating large expanse of arable land to grow staple crops such as maize, cassava, tomatoes, okra, cucumber and lettuce.

The Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Olufemi Adeoluwa said the initiative is not just a response to the current crisis but a proactive step towards securing the future. He noted that the situation has gone beyond theoretical models, mere lip service and incessant blame games, hence, the initiative to make a tangible difference. He added that as the crops grow and the harvests increase, so too would the promise of a more secure and affordable food supply for the community. He thanked the Ekiti State government for lending massive support to ensure the success of the project.

Meanwhile, the Ekiti State government, recognizing the significance of the laudable endeavour, has lent substantial logistical support in order to ensure that the project achieved the desired goal. The Governor Oyebanji-led administration provided the machinery for the ploughing of 10 hectares of land and the provision of free fertilizers, laying a strong foundation for a bountiful yield.

Giving further insights into the project, the Project Coordinator, Dr. Olaolu Dawodu affirmed that the University’s dedication to this worthy cause had already borne fruit with the successful harvests of pepper, tomatoes and cucumber that are now on sale to the general public under the first phase of the project. He stated that another batch of tomatoes covering about an acre of land would soon be harvested. He expressed gratitude to the Vice-Chancellor for his unwavering commitment to the project adding that his leadership, combined with the collective efforts of the University Management and government support, set a powerful example of how institutions can lead the charge in combating food insecurity.

Adding to this agricultural push, the University’s curriculum is strategically structured to require all 200L students of the institution to engage in practical agriculture. The compulsory course is designed to expose students to farming techniques, equipping them with the skills needed to be self-reliant in an increasingly challenging economic landscape. With over 3,900 students participating in the programme, the project also benefits from a steady source of labour, significantly reducing operational costs and fostering a deeper connection between education and practical life skill.