Ilesa Varsity VC Donates Integrated Teaching and Research Farm, Commission Law Faculty Buildings
Chris Oyeoku Okafor 
In a bid to enhance practical learning experiences for students, Professor Talwo Olufemi Asaolu, Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilesa, Osun State, has donated a model integrated teaching and research farm to the institution. This initiative aims to provide students with hands-on training opportunities in agricultural sciences.
During the commissioning ceremony of the faculty of Law building and its auditorium, Professor Asaolu emphasized the importance of practical training in supplementing theoretical education. He highlighted the significance of the farm, which currently includes facilities such as a cow ranch, sheep and ram ranch, catfish ponds, cane rat farm, and snail farm. Additionally, plans are underway to establish poultry, apiculture, feed mill, and palm oil processing sections.
Professor Asaolu revealed that the idea for the farm stemmed from a proposal by lecturers in the Agricultural Science Education Unit. However, he took the initiative to start the project on a small scale, gradually expanding its scope. He commended the university's capacity to mobilize and manage resources effectively, which enabled the development of the farm.
Hon. Gbenga Onigbogi, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the University Governing Council, lauded Professor Asaolu's generosity and commitment to the university's growth. He emphasized the farm's significance in providing practical training for agricultural science students and facilitating research and development in agriculture and agribusiness.
Dr. L. D. Folorunso, Acting Dean of the Faculty of Education and Chairman of the Committee of Deans, praised Professor Asaolu's altruistic gesture and described him as a visionary leader. He emphasized the long-term benefits of the model farm, not only for current students but also for future generations.
The commissioning ceremony also marked the official unveiling of the newly renovated law faculty buildings, which were previously abandoned and dilapidated structures. These buildings have been refurbished and equipped with modern facilities to meet the standards set by the National Universities Commission (NUC) and the Council of Legal Education (CLE).
In his address, Professor Asaolu expressed gratitude to Senator Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke, the Executive Governor of Osun State, for providing the funds needed to renovate the law faculty buildings. He emphasized the university's commitment to delivering quality education and creating a conducive learning environment for students.
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The event underscored the university's dedication to excellence and innovation in both academic and practical domains. With the establishment of the integrated teaching and research farm and the renovation of the law faculty buildings, the University of Ilesa is poised to set new standards in education and research within the region.
