The Kwara State government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting educational institutions in their initiatives aimed at enhancing food security across the state.
This announcement was made by Dr. Mary Arinde, the State Commissioner for Tertiary Education, during the flag-off of the Kwara State Polytechnic’s commercial farm products and the first tranche of maize sales at a subsidized rate.
Dr. Arinde emphasized that this initiative aligns with the current administration’s policy focus on reducing hunger and promoting agricultural development within the state.
“Our commitment to food security is unwavering, and we recognize the critical role educational institutions play in achieving this goal,” she stated.
The Commissioner highlighted that the event serves as a testament to the Polytechnic’s dedication to agricultural development and the promotion of self-sufficiency within the educational community.
She urged the institution’s management to diversify their agricultural outputs by cultivating additional crops for public consumption.
In his remarks, Dr. Abdul Jimoh, the Rector of Kwara State Polytechnic, elaborated on the significance of the farm project. He noted that it is designed not only to expose students to the practical aspects of their studies but also to contribute significantly to food sufficiency in Kwara State.
“This initiative is vital for our students, providing them with hands-on experience while also addressing the pressing issue of food security,” Dr. Jimoh explained.
Additionally, Dr. Jimoh mentioned that the farm project serves as a strategic measure to prevent encroachment on the Polytechnic’s land, thus protecting the institution’s resources for future agricultural endeavors.
