Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta Launches NUC-Accredited MSc Programme In Agroecology

The Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), has expanded its contribution to agricultural innovation and sustainable food systems with the official launch of its National Universities Commission (NUC)-accredited Master of Science (MSc) programme in Agroecology.

The programme, developed under the AGRECOFARM Initiative, was inaugurated at the Centre of Excellence in Agricultural Development and Sustainable Environment (CEADESE), where faculty members and key stakeholders gathered for a comprehensive presentation on its objectives and framework.

Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, the Dean of the College of Agricultural Management and Rural Development (COLAMRUD) and Chairman of the Committee of Deans and Directors (CODAD), Prof. Emmanuel Fakoya, commended the AGRECOFARM team led by Prof. Adewale Dipeolu for its commitment and strategic leadership in ensuring the programme’s successful establishment at FUNAAB.

According to the Vice-Chancellor, the MSc in Agroecology forms part of the European Erasmus+ AgroCOFA Project, which was initiated in Italy in December 2023. The project brings together six West African universities from Ghana, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone, with an innovative curriculum that integrates theory and practice in sustainable agriculture.

The two-year programme offers four specialisations: Crop and Mechanisation, Livestock Systems and Agroecology, Agribusiness and Sustainable Food Systems, and Natural Resources and Environment. Prof. Kehinde noted that the programme is designed to produce agroecologists, researchers, and innovators who will advance climate-smart and inclusive agriculture in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the European Green Deal. He encouraged students and young scientists to embrace the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to agricultural transformation and policy influence.

Highlighting the structure of the curriculum, the AGRECOFARM Coordinator, Prof. Adewale Dipeolu, explained that it emphasises sustainability, ecosystem resilience, and food sovereignty. The curriculum features core agroecology courses, sector-based electives, research projects, and industry internships aimed at providing hands-on experience.

The launch also featured expert presentations on each area of specialisation. Prof. Victor Olowe of the Institute of Food Security, Environmental Resources and Agricultural Research (IFSERAR) discussed the Crop and Mechanisation option, focusing on integrating ecological, technological, and social dimensions for sustainable crop systems. Prof. Olusiji Sowande of the Department of Animal Production and Health (APH) presented on Livestock Systems and Agroecology, stressing animal welfare, biodiversity, and circular production principles.

On Agribusiness and Sustainable Food Systems, Prof. Elijah Obayelu of the Department of Agricultural Economics and Farm Management (AEFM) highlighted the need to balance profitability with sustainability through ethical agribusiness models. Meanwhile, Prof. Omotola Jayeola of the Department of Forestry and Wildlife Management, and former Director of the FUNAAB Zoo Park, led the session on Natural Resources and Environment, addressing ecological resilience, disaster risk management, and environmental policy through multi-sectoral collaboration.

The new MSc in Agroecology positions FUNAAB as a leading institution in driving Africa’s transition toward sustainable, climate-resilient, and innovation-driven agricultural systems.