Ekiti State University's New Chancellor Launches N1bn Agro-Tech Fund for Graduates
He urged students and academics to actively engage in food production efforts, proposing the optimization of the university’s lands for agricultural purposes.
AKACHI NOEL 
Dr. Tunji Olowolafe, the newly appointed Chancellor of Ekiti State University, has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative aimed at empowering agro-tech enterprises founded by the university’s students and graduates. The initiative, a one billion naira Innovation Fund, was announced during the 28th convocation of the university held on April 3-4, 2024.
In his address, Dr. Olowolafe emphasized the importance of driving innovation and enterprise in agriculture to enhance food security across Nigeria. He expressed gratitude to the Governor of Ekiti State, His Excellency Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, for his support and appointment as Chancellor.
Highlighting agriculture as the backbone of the nation’s economy, Dr. Olowolafe underscored the immense potential for innovation and inclusive growth within local agricultural communities. He urged students and academics to actively engage in food production efforts, proposing the optimization of the university’s lands for agricultural purposes.
Under the initiative, students will have the opportunity to lease small plots of land for farming, gaining hands-on experience while earning a living. Dr. Olowolafe stressed the importance of all members of the university community contributing to food production, regardless of their field of study.
Moreover, the Chancellor encouraged exploration of diverse agricultural avenues, including grains, vegetables, poultry, fisheries, and agri-logistics, as well as app development.
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Expanding the intervention beyond agriculture, Dr. Olowolafe announced plans to create a platform for 100 of the university’s brightest minds to engage in global business process outsourcing, contributing to the world economy while enhancing their skills.
Additionally, he revealed the establishment of a program to subsidize capacity building for up to 30 academic staff members to facilitate their participation in international conferences, training sessions, and research activities.
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Dr. Tunji Olowolafe’s initiative marks a significant step towards fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainability within Ekiti State University and the broader agricultural sector, signaling a promising future for agro-tech development in Nigeria.
