The Chancellor, Ekiti State College, Ado-Ekiti, Dr Tunji Olowolafe, has introduced a N1 billion innovation fund designed to empower agro-tech firms based by current graduands and college students of the establishment.
Dr Olowolafe introduced this on the twenty eighth convocation ceremony of EKSU held third and 4th of April 2024 whereas additionally thanking the customer of the college and Governor of Ekiti State, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, for locating him worthy to be appointed as Chancellor.
He mentioned, “The one billion naira Innovation Fund is designed to empower agro-tech firms based by current graduands and college students of our nice Ekiti State College.
“The overall dialogue in Nigeria is about price of residing and meals safety. All of us eat. However many people don’t spend time to consider what we eat, how it’s produced and the way did it get to our tables. These are essential questions.”
In his handle, which dwelled on the necessity for college students and tutorial workers to imbibe the tradition of variety and interact in meals manufacturing efforts, Dr. Olowolafe additionally harped on the huge potential of agriculture and its important function within the development of the nation’s financial system.
He mentioned, “My ardour lies in nurturing inclusive and sustainable development inside our native communities. Agriculture stands because the spine of our nation, and it’s right here that I see the best potential for innovation and financial prosperity.
“As we give awards to the very best tutorial college students, we will additionally give awards to the very best agro entrepreneurs on campus. Some can do grains whereas others do greens. Some can do poultry whereas others can do fisheries. Some may even do logistics while others do apps.”
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Dr. Olowolafe famous that the EKSU campus is positioned on very fertile land, thus, he added, “Allow us to see how we will optimise the usage of this land for agricultural functions. Every scholar can lease a small plot of land for manufacturing. As we be taught to move our exams, we will additionally use these farms to eat and earn a residing. There isn’t a age or gender restriction.”
A educated medical physician, profitable businessman, and philanthropist, Dr Olowolafe mentioned, “Our work doesn’t cease with agriculture. I consider in harnessing the untapped potential of our youth, significantly in fields like enterprise course of outsourcing. This sector presents a world of alternative for our graduates, particularly these from Ekiti State College to instantly contribute to the worldwide financial system. To this finish, I’m excited to create a platform for 100 of the brightest minds from our esteemed establishment to have interaction in significant, sustainable work that challenges them and grows their abilities.”
The Chancellor additionally introduced the institution of a brand new program designed to supply help and subsidies for as much as 30 tutorial workers members, which he mentioned is geared toward facilitating their participation in worldwide conferences, coaching periods, and analysis actions.
