The Management of Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin, has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering an inclusive educational environment that empowers women to realize their full potential within the agricultural sector.
The Rector of the institution, Abdul-Jimoh-Jimoh Muhammed stated this at the opening ceremony of the Women in Agricultural Technical Education project held at the Rear Admiral Muhammed Alabi Lawal Auditorium of the Institution on Tuesday.
Represented by the Deputy Rector Academic, Dr. Felicia Awolola, the Rector disclosed that the initiative which is implemented by the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture Ibadan, is a two-year project designed to equip female students with modern agricultural techniques to foster job creation and enhance employability in the agricultural sector.
Mohammed emphasised the vital role agric plays in sustaining human life, stressing the underlining importance of harnessing both natural and human resources to foster economic growth.
The Rector expressed gratitude to the state government for its unwavering support in providing an enabling environment that has allowed the polytechnic’s commercial farm project to flourish.
Therefore, he urged students to take the initiative seriously to further broaden their skills and knowledge in agriculture.
Also speaking, the South-West Coordinator of the WATEA project, Mr. Emmanuel Onasanya elaborated on the training which includes poultry farming, smart agricultural practices, fish production and processing.
He said the initiative seeks to tackle the historical underrepresentation of women in agriculture, providing them with the tools and knowledge essential for success in the industry.
Emmanuel further stressed that the programme is aimed at uplifting communities and promotes sustainable development through enhanced female participation in agricultural activities.
