Key Takeaways
- Edo’s agriculture institution renamed to enhance scientific and technological training.
- The new name, Edo State College of Agriculture, Science and Technology, reflects modern agricultural practices.
- This initiative aims to improve food security and create employment opportunities in the agricultural sector.
Institution’s Transformation
Gov. Monday Okpebholo recently approved a bill to rename and restructure Edo’s agriculture institution, aiming to strengthen scientific and technological training across its three campuses. The legislation was signed during a visit from Speaker Blessing Agbebaku at Government House in Benin.
The institution will now be known as the Edo State College of Agriculture, Science and Technology, replacing the former name, Edo State College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. The college includes three campuses: Iguoriakhi focuses on agricultural technology, Uromi on forestry, and Agenebode on aquaculture.
Speaker Agbebaku emphasized that the changes align the institution with global best practices, enhancing both the quality of education and practical training for students. The revised curriculum aims to equip students with innovative skills that bolster food security and promote sustainable agricultural development in Edo.
He pointed out that the agricultural sector has evolved scientifically, prompting lawmakers to amend the existing legislation to adapt to these developments. Agbebaku noted, “Agriculture has gone scientific. We decided to amend the bill to push agriculture into the system scientifically.”
Gov. Okpebholo hailed the signing as a pivotal moment for the institution and Edo State, declaring it “a new dawn for Edo State College of Agriculture.” He expects the amended law to bring substantial improvements, benefiting the state immensely.
The governor stated that the legislation would enhance students’ skills, supporting the state’s goal to meet rising demands for food production and self-sufficiency. “We want to produce at least 95 percent of what we consume as a people,” he added. This initiative is also aimed at boosting the state’s internally generated revenue.
Moreover, the new law is poised to create job opportunities for youth in various agricultural sectors, including livestock production and husbandry. The college plans to provide training in areas like livestock breeding, animal care, and management, focusing on the production of meat, milk, fiber, and eggs. This strategic approach is designed to encourage sustainable agricultural growth while addressing the challenges of food security in the region.
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