Dr. Tunji Olowolafe Launches N1bn Agro-Tech Fund for EKSU Graduates
Dr. Tunji Olowolafe, the newly appointed Chancellor of Ekiti State University, has launched a pioneering initiative—a one billion naira Innovation Fund—to support Agro-Tech enterprises founded by the university’s students and alumni.
Chris Oyeoku Okafor 
Ekiti State University's new Chancellor, Dr. Tunji Olowolafe, has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative with the launch of a one billion naira Innovation Fund dedicated to fostering agro-tech enterprises founded by the university’s students and alumni.
During his address at the 28th convocation of the Ekiti State University held on April 3rd and 4th, 2024, Dr. Olowolafe celebrated the institution's achievements while emphasizing the critical need to drive innovation in agriculture for enhanced food security across Nigeria.
Expressing gratitude to the Governor of Ekiti State, His Excellency, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, for his appointment as Chancellor, Dr. Olowolafe outlined the pivotal role of agriculture in the nation's economy and stressed the vast potential for innovation within local agricultural communities.
"In agriculture lies the foundation of our nation's economy, and it is within this sector that we find immense opportunities for innovation and economic growth," remarked Dr. Olowolafe. "The one billion naira Innovation Fund is specifically designed to empower agro-tech ventures established by current students and graduates of our esteemed Ekiti State University."
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The Chancellor urged both students and faculty members to actively participate in agricultural activities, emphasizing the importance of understanding food production processes and ensuring food security in the country.
"Our national discourse often revolves around the cost of living and food security. It is imperative that we all take a moment to consider the source of our food and the processes involved in bringing it to our tables," Dr. Olowolafe emphasized.
Proposing the utilization of the university's arable lands for agricultural purposes, Dr. Olowolafe suggested that students be provided with opportunities to lease small plots of land, enabling them to gain practical farming experience while earning a livelihood.
"Each student will have the opportunity to lease a small parcel of land for agricultural production. This initiative not only facilitates academic excellence but also provides students with practical skills and income-generation opportunities," Dr. Olowolafe explained. "It is my belief that irrespective of our fields of study, we must all contribute to food production efforts."
Acknowledging the diverse nature of agriculture, the Chancellor encouraged students to explore various agricultural sectors, including grains, vegetables, poultry, fisheries, and agri-logistics, as well as app development.
Expanding his intervention initiatives beyond agriculture, Dr. Olowolafe announced plans to establish a platform for the university's top 100 students to engage in global business process outsourcing, enabling them to contribute to the global economy while refining their skills.
Furthermore, the Chancellor revealed the initiation of a program aimed at subsidizing capacity-building activities for up to 30 academic staff members of the institution, facilitating their participation in international conferences, training sessions, and research endeavors.
Dr. Tunji Olowolafe's visionary leadership and commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship are poised to significantly impact the agricultural landscape of Ekiti State University and contribute to Nigeria's overall economic development.
