UAES Hosts Sensitisation Workshop on MSc Agroecology and Food Systems Programme

The Vice Chancellor of the University of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences (UAES), Umuagwo, Prof. Christopher Eze, has called for the adoption of agroecology to enhance food production and promote national food security.

Prof. Eze made this call during a one-day sensitisation workshop on the MSc Agroecology and Food Systems programme, held at the university campus in Umuagwo, near Owerri, on Friday, June 6, 2025.

In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor emphasized the need to embrace smart agriculture and modern farming techniques to boost crop yields and strengthen the agricultural sector. He noted that Nigeria and West Africa face significant challenges, including low soil fertility, nutrient deficiencies, weed pressure, poor irrigation systems, salination, and pest and disease outbreaks.

“Agroecology practices offer solutions to these issues by optimizing nutrient and carbon balance, improving soil fertility, water retention, organic matter availability, and pH regulation without harming the soil,” Prof. Eze stated.

He further highlighted the importance of resetting the region’s farming systems through sustainable methods such as animal manure management, use of mulch, and integration of forage legumes to mitigate erosion, climate change, and biodiversity loss.

Prof. Eze described the MSc Agroecology programme as a strategic initiative designed to build the capacity of agricultural stakeholders by equipping them with advanced knowledge, skills, and competencies in agroecological methods and technologies. He commended the Governor of Imo State and Visitor to the university, His Excellency Sen. Hope Uzodimma, for his visionary leadership and sustained support since the institution's establishment in 2020.

The Vice Chancellor also acknowledged the university’s growing international collaborations, noting that UAES is currently implementing two European Union-funded projects: The Digital Solution to Agriculture (DIGISOL) and the Agrecofarm Project.

The event featured a keynote address by Prof. Emmanuel Onweremadu of the Federal University of Technology Owerri, titled "Innovation in AgrecoFarm: A sine qua non for food security, environmental sustainability and land degradation neutrality." He underscored the link between land degradation, poverty, and food insecurity, calling for urgent action to restore the health of tropical soils.

Prof. Rose Nwabueze of UAES gave an overview of the MSc Agroecology and Food Systems programme, explaining that it was developed under the Agrecofarm project co-funded by the Erasmus Programme of the European Union. She noted that the initiative supports capacity building in higher education institutions across Ghana, Sierra Leone, and Nigeria.

“The goal is to promote applied research in agroecology, encourage sustainable agricultural practices, and foster environmentally friendly farming systems that serve both people and the planet,” she said.

Another presentation, titled "Career Path in Agroecology: A Roadmap to Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security," was delivered by Prof. Anthony Onyekuru of UAES.

Joining the event virtually, Prof. Pietro Picuno, the International Coordinator of the programme, expressed optimism about the long term impact of the initiative on sustainable agriculture in Nigeria and West Africa.

Dr. Vitus Enwerem, Programme Coordinator and Associate Dean of the Postgraduate School, highlighted the programme’s relevance in addressing food security. He encouraged prospective students to enroll, citing its practical applications and potential for self employment.

“The programme is designed not just for students but also for rural farmers and farmer associations, to promote better agronomic practices and ensure sustainable food production,” Dr. Enwerem concluded.

To read more report by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), visit:

VC advocates agroecology to boost nation’s food security – NAN