The Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) witnessed a historic event recently, as the National Institute of Food Science and Technology (NIFST) held its maiden induction ceremony for the 2022/2023 graduates of the Department of Food Science and Technology (FST), College of Food Science and Human Ecology (COLFHEC).

Speaking at the ceremony, Prof. Joseph Abu, the NIFST National President, delivered the Institute’s mission and vision statement, restating its commitment to combating food insecurity and ensuring the provision of safe and nutritious food to the populace.

He urged the inductees to recognise the importance of NIFST membership in advancing their careers.

L-R: Ag. HoD, FST, Dr. Esther Kajihausa; Prof. Taofeek Shittu; representative of NIFST’s National President and National Assistant Secretary, Mr. Razaq Oke and Prof. Ganiyat Olatunde at the ceremony

Represented by the National Assistant Secretary of NIFST, Mr. Razaq Oke, the President highlighted the global prominence of Food Science and Technology and the several opportunities available to NIFST members.

Prof. Taofeek Shittu, in his capacity as the Western Chapter Chairman, elaborated on the significance of the induction, inviting the graduates to join the ranks of Chartered Food Scientists and Food Technologists. He underscored the benefits of NIFST membership, including access to opportunities and career support.

Dr. Esther Kajihausa, Ag. Head, Department of Food Science and Technology (FST), expressed profound appreciation for the dedication and perseverance of the graduates.

She emphasised the importance of their induction and encouraged them to serve as exemplary ambassadors for the Department and FUNAAB.

In her speech, the Dean, COLFHEC, Prof. Adebukunola Omemu congratulated the newly-inducted members for the memorable milestone in their journey of aspiring to be Food Scientists.

The solemn oath-taking ceremony saw 33 FST graduates inducted as NIFST members, while they pledge their commitment to NIFST’s principles, symbolising their readiness to embrace the challenges of the profession.

Highpoint of the ceremony was the presentation of membership certificates to the new members.

Cross-section of inductees at the ceremony

Present at the ceremony were Prof. Ganiyat Olatunde; Dr. Adebukola Omidiran; the College Officer, Mrs. Olubukola Olokode; Head-of-class, Mr. Sanya Adenuga; Western Chapter Chairman, NIFST, Prof. Bolanle Akinwande, who was represented by Prof. Taofeek Shittu.

The event, filled with symbolism and significance, not only celebrated the academic achievements of the graduates but also marked their formal entry into the esteemed community of Food Science and Technology professionals, poised to make significant contributions to the society.

The report and pictures are courtesy of the Ag. HoD, FST, Dr. Esther Kajihausa