UAT Hosts Second Bayelsa Suya Domestication Workshop

Earlier on Tuesday, October 10, 2023, The Bayelsa Suya Research Group (BSRG) of the University of Africa, Toru-orua (UAT), hosted her second Bayelsa Suya Domestication Workshop at the University campus in Toru-orua, Myschoolnews report.

The Research project which borders on the domestication of the African Palm Weevil popularly called Bayelsa suya is sponsored by the Bayelsa State Education Trust Fund (BYEDTF).

The Lead researcher Prof. Dr. Mansi El-mansi in his welcome address noted that agricultural waste has been adopted as a base diet for the insects and this he says would contribute immensely to waste management in addition to other benefits of the research such as; production of celluloses which have industrial applications such as the production of wines, textiles, and paper. He added that it is also a good source of protein.

The Acting Vice-Chancellor Prof. Barclays Ayakoroma, represented by the Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, Prof. John Alfred-ockiya in his remark, appreciated the EDTF for the sponsorship of the research project while tasking the Research team to ensure that their finding are workable at the end and not just another research that would collect dust in the shelves of the University Library.

The Executive Secretary of the Board Dr. (Mrs) Alice Atuwo represented by Hon. Tobias James a member of the Board, noted that this research project has projected the name of Bayelsa state internationally and has also brought UAT into the limelight. He added that the research team should look into the aspect of cholesterol contained in the Bayelsa staple food. He expressed confidence in the ability of the lead researcher Prof. Mansi El-mansi and his team to deliver a good job.

At the end of the workshop session, starter kits were issued to farmers.

The Workshop had in attendance selected farmers from Bayelsa state, the Bioresources Development Centre Odi, and interested persons from within the University Community.