The Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) has launched its Agromart, a state-of-the-art facility aimed at revolutionizing the way agricultural produce is cultivated, processed, and distributed.
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adenike Oladiji, inaugurated the Agromart on August 27, 2024, emphasizing the university’s commitment to leveraging research for the betterment of agricultural practices both within its immediate environment and across Nigeria.
Professor Oladiji articulated the pivotal role the Agromart will play in FUTA’s broader mission of agricultural innovation and sustainability.
“The Agromart is not just a facility. It is a testament to our dedication to equipping our students with the skills and knowledge they need to excel in the agricultural sector, so today marks a new chapter in our pursuit of excellence in agricultural education,” she stated.
This new initiative also signifies FUTA’s growing reputation among universities and private stakeholders in the agricultural sector, highlighting the impactful contributions of its staff and students towards sustainable food security.
The VC further urged the university agricultural experts to continue their extension services and provide guidance to farmers in nearby communities, stressing this as their contribution to the national food security drive.
The Agromart, she noted, is a beacon of FUTA’s dedication to sustainable agricultural practices and community engagement.
Professor Oluwatooyin Oludahunsi, the Dean of the School of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology, shared her enthusiasm for the Agromart, describing it as a transformative development for students, staff, and the surrounding community.
“The Agromart is a game-changer for the School,” she remarked. She elaborated that products like Garri, tomatoes, and yams, available for sale at the Agromart, are sourced directly from the university’s farms, where students are actively involved in the planting and processing activities.
The Agromart is poised to become a hub for practical agricultural education, research, and community outreach, reinforcing FUTA’s commitment to delivering exceptional agricultural education and research.