Take advantage of technological innovation to improve food safety – Blueprint Newspapers Limited

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Saturday invited the graduation students of the University of Joseph Sarwuan Tarka, Makurdi, to use their knowledge and skills to contribute to the development of Nigeria, in particular in facing food insecurity.

Speaking at the joint convening ceremony of the University of 26th and 31st held on Saturday, President Tinubu, who was represented on the occasion of Prof. Tanko Ishaya Vice Chancellor, the University of Jos, underlined the importance of agriculture in guaranteeing food security and creating job opportunities for the young people of the nation.

He praised university efforts in producing qualified graduates in agriculture, observing that Nigeria has enormous market growth indices and a strong demand for quality food.

President Tinubu encouraged graduates to be innovative and entrepreneurial, exploiting technology to improve agricultural productivity.

The president also underlined the need for universities to concentrate on research and development, in particular in facing the challenges of insecurity.

He underlined the importance of using technology -based solutions, such as drones, to improve safety on campus and beyond.

In addition, President Tinubu reiterated the commitment of the Federal Government to give priority to education and security, with better funding for universities through the appropriation of capital and the trustee fund of tertiary education.

In his speech, the Chancellor and President that Governing Council of the School, Senator Joy Emodi, has highlighted the university’s efforts to advance agricultural research, provide quality education and promote sustainable agricultural practices.

He also praised the university partnerships with agro-entrepreneurs for mechanized agriculture and the production of high-performance varieties.

He also said that the university made great strides in the development of infrastructures, including the installation of an 8.25 MW solar plant, the construction of hostels, lessons and workshops.

Senator Emodi expressed appreciation for the support of government agencies, including the tertiary Education Trust Fund (Tetfund) and the rural electrification agency.

Vice Chancellor, Engr. Prof. in Itodo welcomed President Tinubu and other dignitaries, highlighting the results of the university in agriculture, research and innovation.

He also appealed to the president for support in facing university infrastructure needs, including the construction of a main access road and perimeter fencing.

He observed that the University made giant steps in research and development, with partnerships with international organizations and the establishment of new academic programs.

Deputy Chancellor expressed gratitude to the Federal Government, Tetfund and other parties interested for their support.

The convocation ceremony marked a significant milestone for the University, with 22,027 graduate students, of which 200 who obtained first -class honors.

Others who also spoke to the event congratulated graduates and their families, urged them to apply their knowledge and skills to stimulate agricultural production and entrepreneurship for economic growth.