In a significant development aimed at promoting smart agriculture research and innovation, the Agro Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) has handed over a greenhouse farm to the Collage of Agriculture, Garkawa, in Mikang LGA of Plateau State.
The handover ceremony took place at the premises of the collage along Yelwa-Shendam road yesterday marking another milestone in the collaboration between the Project and the Academic Institution.
The newly handed-over greenhouse facility is equipped with a state-of-the-art facilities and technology to support research and practical training in modern agriculture practices.
The Facility is also expected to enhance the capacity of the collage in embracing smart agriculture particularly Climate Resilience and Sustainable farming techniques in Semi-Arid Landscapes.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, Mr Garba Gowon Gonkol, Project Coordinator of Plateau State ACReSAL, emphasized the importance of such collaboration in advancing agricultural development and addressing the challenges posed by Climate Change.
He highlighted the need for innovative solutions to enhance Food Security and promote Sustainable agriculture in Plateau State and indeed the region.
The management of the collage of Agriculture, Garkawa led by the Provost Rev. Nathan Loks expressed their gratitude for the support provided by the ACReSAL Project noting that the greenhouse farm will greatly benefit both students and the college community in their research and academic pursuit in agriculture.
They however pledged to make optimal use of facility to further their mission of training the next generation of agricultural experts.
The handover of the greenhouse farm also signifies a step forward in the efforts to build Resilience in agriculture and empower Local Communities to adapt to changing Climatic Conditions.
While appreciating the ACReSAL Project for coming to his domain, the Paramount traditional ruler of the area, HRH, RTD AIG Bashir Makama Dabup said “As the agricultural sector continues to face challenges posed by Climate Change such initiatives by the ACReSAL Project play a crucial role in promoting Resilience and Sustainability”.
The handover of the greenhouse farm also culminated in its first harvest of Bell pepper planted some weeks ago.
In attendance at the harvest we’re the representative of the Commissioner of Education (Higher Education) and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Hajiya Sadia Ibrahim, the Plateau State ACReSAL Project SPMU, the Management Staff/Students of the Institution, the traditional ruler and members of the community.
