… To Establish Cattle Ranch on Campus
By Olasunkanmi Olajide & Femi Dansu
In a significant stride towards fostering agricultural innovation and ensuring sustainable food production, the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), has unveiled ambitious initiatives to create a state-of-the-art ranch dedicated to beef and dairy farming.
The collaboration for this project involved NOLAP Limited, a prominent player in the field of cattle ranching through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Vice-Chancellor and the Directors of NOLAP Limited, marking the commencement of a promising partnership.
Speaking on the project, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde expressed enthusiasm for the project, highlighting its potentials to reshape the agricultural landscape in the country. “This modern ranch would not only establish FUNAAB as a leader in agricultural research and education but would also contribute to the development of sustainable farming practices that can be adopted on a broader scale,” the Vice-Chancellor emphasised.
According to him, “This venture is in line with the University’s dedication to research, education, and community development, aiming to revolutionise the livestock farming sector by integrating advanced technologies and sustainable methodologies.”
Key Highlights of the Contemporary Ranch are:
Cutting-Edge Technology:
The ranch would harness the latest advancements in agricultural technology, incorporating precision farming, automated feeding systems, and data-driven management practices to enhance productivity and resource efficiency.
Sustainable Practices:
FUNAAB’s modern ranch places a premium on sustainability through eco-friendly waste management, water conservation, and the use of renewable energy sources, underscoring a commitment to environmentally responsible farming.
Research and Education Hub:
Serving as a practical learning environment, the ranch would facilitate hands-on experiences for students and researchers in modern livestock management. This initiative aligns with FUNAAB’s mission to produce graduates equipped with the skills to address real-world challenges in agriculture.
Integrated Beef and Dairy Production:
The ranch would host both beef and dairy operations, presenting a comprehensive approach to livestock farming. This integration seeks to optimise resource utilisation, minimise waste, and provide diverse educational opportunities.
Community Engagement:
FUNAAB intends to collaborate with local communities to facilitate knowledge transfer and skill development in contemporary livestock farming practices. This inclusive approach aims to benefit both the University and the broader agricultural ecosystem.
Timeline and Funding:
As FUNAAB takes this bold step towards establishing a modern ranch for beef and dairy, it reinforces its commitment to being at the forefront of agricultural innovation and contributing to the development of a resilient and sustainable food system. Significant land clearing has been completed.
During the MoU signing ceremony, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, the Vice-Chancellor, affirmed the University’s commitment to uphold the principles outlined in the agreement. He emphasised that integrity remains a fundamental value at FUNAAB.
Prof. Kehinde expressed optimism about the project’s significant benefits for both the University community and the broader public. He urged NOLAP to stay true to its commitment, making the cattle ranch a benchmark for other universities.
It is to be noted that the collaboration between FUNAAB and NOLAP is currently establishing pastures.
