UNICEF and IITA donate vital equipment to UNICAL

The United Nations International Child Emergency Fund (UNICEF) in collaboration with the International Institute for Tropical Agriculture (IITA) has donated equipment worth millions of naira to the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Calabar, Myschoolnews gathered.

The Head of Department (HOD), Prof. Henrietta Ene-Obong in a statement during the presentation of the items in her office disclosed that the donation was a fallout of the recently conducted National Food Consumption and Micro Nutrient Survey, adding that, the items were part of the equipment used in collecting data during the studies.

Prof. Eno-Obong who represented the University of Calabar as a Co-Principal investigator for the survey informed that UNICEF, IITA and other stakeholders decided to donate the equipment to institutions that participated in the study. 

Explaining the importance of the items donated, the HOD said, " they can be used in the field, in teaching the students practical aspects in Nutrition and can also be useful to other members of faculty who have similar interests".

In a remark, the Provost, of the College of Medical Sciences, Unical, Prof. Victor Ansa thanked the donors for the kind gesture, noting that, it will not only promote research and further studies but, will aid the teaching and learning process of both staff and students generally.

While commending the proactive disposition of the HOD by keying into the request by the donors, the Provost who urged others to emulate Prof. Ene-Obong when availed of such opportunities, said by the donation, the University and the College have saved a lot of money in acquiring the equipment.

The equipment estimated to be worth over twenty million naira include; Anthropometry, HbA Ic and Glucose, Hemocue, Cryovial, Stool, Food (plates and bowl set) Electronic Tablet and accessories, Dietary (standard weights-200kg) General Lab Supplies and Sundry Items.

Also present to witness the presentation of the items were the Dean of Basic Medical Sciences and the Deputy Dean, Prof. Anozeng O. Igiri and Dr Item Atangwo respectively.