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By Abubakar Umar
Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin, has harvested its first yield of bell peppers from the institution’s green farm.
According to the Polytechnic, this mark a new milestone in its drive to boost Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).
Leading the harvest exercise alongside the State Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Hajiya Sa’adat Modibbo Kawu, the Rector, Dr. Abdul Jimoh, described the initiative as a strategic move to reduce the Polytechnic’s reliance on government subventions.
Dr Abdul Jimoh stressed that the farming project was part of the institution’s broader vision of exploring sustainable funding avenues for both academic and infrastructural development.
He noted that the Polytechnic had already begun reaping the benefits of its ventures, which include agriculture, consultancy services, and entrepreneurship initiatives expected to significantly enhance its IGR base.
Speaking during the event, the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Hajiya Sa’adat Modibbo Kawu, commended the management for its innovation.
Hajia Modibbo Kawu expressed optimism that the initiative would not only strengthen the institution’s financial standing but also provide students with hands-on experience in agriculture and other productive sectors.
She added that the project aligns with Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s vision of empowering youths to embrace self-reliance, while describing the Polytechnic’s green farm as a veritable training ground for students interested in agribusiness.
The Farm Manager, Mr. Aremu Amos, disclosed that there is already a ready market for the produce, assuring that all harvests will be promptly absorbed by consumers.
Edited by Abdullahi Ahmed
