FUNAAB Launches NUC-Accredited MSc in Agroecology

The Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), has further strengthened its role in promoting agricultural innovation, climate-smart food systems, and resilient ecosystems across Africa with the launch of its National Universities Commission (NUC)-accredited Master of Science (MSc) in Agroecology.

The programme, anchored under the AGRECOFARM Initiative, was officially launched at the Centre of Excellence in Agricultural Development and Sustainable Environment (CEADESE), bringing together faculty members and stakeholders for a detailed presentation on its structure and objectives.

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

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

The two-year programme, he added, offers four specialisations which are Crop and Mechanisation, Livestock Systems and Agroecology, Agribusiness and Sustainable Food Systems, as well as Natural Resources and Environment.

Prof. Kehinde noted that the programme aims to produce agroecologists, researchers, and innovators who would promote climate-smart, inclusive agriculture in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the European Green Deal. He encouraged students and young scientists to take advantage of the opportunity to learn, network, and influence agricultural policy.

Earlier, the AGRECOFARM Coordinator, Prof. Adewale Dipeolu, highlighted the curriculum’s emphasis on sustainable practices, international collaboration, ecosystem resilience, and food sovereignty. He explained that the programme comprises compulsory agroecology courses, sector-specific electives, research projects, and industry-based internships.

The event also featured presentations by experts on each specialisation. Prof. Victor Olowe of the Institute of Food Security, Environmental Resources and Agricultural Research (IFSERAR) presented the Crop and Mechanisation option, emphasising the integration of ecological, technological, and social approaches for sustainable crop production. Prof. Olusiji Sowande of the Department of Animal Production and Health (APH) led the Livestock Systems and Agroecology presentation, focusing on animal welfare, biodiversity, and circular production systems.

The Agribusiness and Sustainable Food Systems option was delivered by Prof. Elijah Obayelu of the Department of Agricultural Economics and Farm Management (AEFM), who underscored the balance between profitability and sustainability through ethical and innovative agribusiness models. Prof. Omotola Jayeola of the Department of Forestry and Wildlife Management, and former Director of the FUNAAB Zoo Park, handled the Natural Resources and Environment presentation, addressing issues of ecological resilience, disaster management, and environmental policy through multi-sectoral collaboration.

By Emeka Oluka & Bolanle Olawepo