FUNAAB College of Biosciences Launches Endowment Fund and Food Bank to Support Indigent Students

The Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta has strengthened student welfare support systems as its College of Biosciences (COLBIOS) launched an Endowment Fund alongside a Food Bank Initiative aimed at assisting indigent students.

The initiatives were formally unveiled on May 15, 2026, at the College foyer in an event that brought together academic staff, students, and stakeholders within the university community.

Dean of COLBIOS, Professor Iyabode Kehinde, said the programmes were designed to address financial and welfare challenges that often affect students’ academic performance and overall well-being.

She noted that the college’s vision is to become a centre of excellence in biological research and education, with a focus on innovative and sustainable solutions to challenges in food security, agriculture, and health.

According to her, the university’s core mandates of teaching, research, and community engagement cannot be fully achieved without deliberate attention to student welfare.

She acknowledged the role of government interventions such as the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), while stressing that many students still struggle with basic needs such as feeding and transportation.

The Dean explained that the Endowment Fund was established in 2023 following a donation by Professor Lateef Sanni during a college programme, adding that the initiative has since evolved into a structured welfare support system.

She commended the Endowment Committee led by Professor Olufunke Shitu for its efforts in sustaining the project and ensuring its successful implementation.

A key highlight of the event was the launch of the COLBIOS Food Bank Initiative, designed to provide food assistance to students in need through a designated donation and distribution system within the college.

Professor Kehinde also revealed that food items distributed at the launch were donated through the Budding Leaders Empowerment Initiative (BUDLEIN), where she serves as Executive Director.

She called on alumni, staff, and other stakeholders to contribute to the initiative, describing it as a sustainable model for improving student welfare and supporting academic success.