DELSU: Faculty Of Agriculture Congratulates 8th Substantive Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Samuel Asagba

By Akpobomeh Oghenerukevwe

The Faculty of Agriculture, led by the Dean, Prof. (Mrs.) Dicta Ogisi, yesterday paid a courtesy visit to the newly appointed Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Samuel Asagba, to congratulate him on his emergence as the 8th substantive Vice-Chancellor of the university.

The visit was marked by warm exchanges and a detailed discussion of the Faculty’s pressing challenges and aspirations.

The visit commenced with the traditional presentation of kola nuts, a symbol of goodwill and respect.

ALSO READ: President Tinubu Congratulates Lookman, Nnadozie, Super Falcons On CAF Awards

Following this, Prof. Mrs. Ogisi formally stated the purpose of the visit, expressing the faculty’s commitment to supporting the Vice-Chancellor’s vision for the university and outlining key areas where the Faculty of Agriculture requires urgent attention.

Key Issues Highlighted by the Dean
Prof. Mrs. Ogisi elaborated on the faculty’s critical needs, emphasizing the following:
1. Staffing Challenges:
The faculty currently faces a severe shortage of staff, particularly in the departments of Forestry, Fisheries, and Wildlife, as well as a lack of laboratory technologists. Prof. Ogisi highlighted that Fisheries, for instance, operates with only three staff members despite having a functional fish pond, and Wildlife is managed by just one academic staff member. The Dean called for the recruitment of more personnel to strengthen these critical areas.

2. Lack of Laboratory Facilities:
The absence of a functional laboratory and necessary equipment was flagged as a significant hindrance to research and practical training. Prof. Ogisi mentioned that the faculty does not have laboratory technologists and has repeatedly written requests for support without success.

3. Declining Student Enrollment:
The Dean raised concerns about the dwindling number of students admitted to the faculty, noting that the current admission numbers fall far below their quota of 600 students. She explained that many admitted students often opt for Medicine or other Science-related programs, leaving Agriculture underpopulated.

4. Need for an Agricultural Complex:
Prof. Ogisi expressed the faculty’s desire for an Agricultural Complex, a vision the Vice-Chancellor had previously prayed for, to serve as a hub for the faculty’s academic and administrative activities.

Prof. Asagba, in his response, commended the faculty for their dedication and resilience, particularly in achieving full accreditation for their programs in 2022.

He acknowledged the challenges outlined by the Dean and assured the delegation of his commitment to finding solutions.

He advised the faculty to submit a formal report detailing their needs, which would serve as a working document for addressing the issues.

The Vice-Chancellor also encouraged innovative approaches to attract students, suggesting that departments consider rebranding their programs with more appealing names and incorporating modern areas of study like genetics and food systems.

Prof. Asagba emphasized the importance of collaboration and strategic thinking to ensure the faculty’s growth.

He assured the team of his openness to suggestions and pledged to work closely with the faculty to enhance its academic and infrastructural standing.

The visit concluded with prayers and a group photograph to commemorate the occasion.

The faculty expressed gratitude to the Vice-Chancellor for his time and pledged their support toward achieving his vision for the university.

The visit underscored the Faculty of Agriculture’s determination to address its challenges and strengthen its role in advancing the university’s mission of academic excellence and innovation.

Aside the Dean, Prof.Mrs. Dicta Ogisi, other members of the Faculty present include Prof. Jerimoth Ekelemu, Prof.Kehinde Okuomor, Prof. Frank Oroka, Prof. Mrs Nelly Ureigho; Associate Professor Theophilus Gbigbi; Drs Solomon Enimu and Ufuoma Sorhue, Emmanuel Ofuani (Admin Officer FAG), Stella Arubayi (FO FAG), Jeffrey Emudainohwo AA FAG and Akpobomeh Oghenerukevwe.