The Acting Provost, Federal College of Agriculture, Moor Plantation, Ibadan, Dr (Mrs) Augustus Oluwakemi, in this interview speaks on how agricultural practices can be enhanced in Nigeria. She was interviewed by EMMANUEL ADENIRAN. Excerpts:
Can you introduce yourself to our readers ma?
My name is Dr. Mrs. Augustus Oluwakemi, the acting Provost of the Federal College of Agriculture, Ibadan.
What is the mandate of this institution?
Our mandate is to meet demands of the Agricultural sector of the economy, train diplomats to be self sufficient, to provide middle technological manpower needs of farmers.
These are really good ma!
Our mission is to be first among the equal in the agricultural education sector. We also train for efficiency in Agro allied industries and government agencies, equip our diplomats with high level academic standards with sound practical skills.
Ma, as Acting Provost of this institution, has there been any step taken so far for food security under your leadership?
Good question! In fact, I was in Abuja for a public hearing to present a bill before the Senate committee on Agriculture with the title: Locally Fabricated Machine in enhancing all Productions in Nigeria. This presentation involved four cardinal points which are: Oil Production, Rice Production, Food Security and Motion on Farm Production. These are steps taken so far which our diplomats will also be involved in.
Can you discuss some of your challenges so far ma?
Well, as we know that challenges are inevitable in life, there were challenges and crisis in the past but to the glory of God, we are now enjoying relative peace within the campus compared to what used to obtain before. I must let you also know that our academic programs have been normal and also in line with what is obtainable in the world.
You said something about presenting a bill a short while ago, how optimistic are you ma that the bill will scale through.
I am very optimistic that it will turn to success because we received intelligent contributions during the presentation.
Okay ma, I like your faith. Do you have any advice for those in positions of authority and stakeholders in the agricultural sector?
Yes. Our institution is open to everyone because we train our students with practicals on how to feed the nation in the nearest future. I plead to our governments at all levels to support farmers with needed facilities to improve our economy. There should be collaboration between farmers and researchers for optimal performance in the agricultural sector. Farmers themselves should be optimistic and learn how to make use of technology to enhance what they do. It also makes working and living more pleasant for them.
