College of Agriculture, Science and Technology, COAST, Lafia has initiate a multi million Naira modern irrigation project within the College environment.
The project which consists of erection of Screened House, erection of and installation of Overhead water tanks as well as sinking and piping of boreholes
Speaking on the project, the Head of Agric- Engineering of the College, while inspecting the newly installed equipment, Dr.( Engineer) Jonathan Y. Kuje said the project serves as tool for practical teaching and academic research in the field of modern agricultural technology.
He commended the Governor for providing the enable ground for the attainment of academic excellence in the field of agriculture, science and technology
Dr Kuje explained that though the process could be expensive, assured that the world is already activated in the field of technology driven in terms of agriculture and the best way to go if Nigeria must achieve food security.
He explained that apart from providing an environment for students in general agriculture, horticulture,forestry , crop priduction.and extension fields to gain practical knowledge, he says the College is able to generate revenue from such practical fields
Dr Kuje is of the opinion that the modern irrigation offers hope in the light of current challenge occasioned by climate change.
He called on students in secondary schools who are dilemma of what to study and not to be idle is to embrace the study of agriculture and the science of it because, he said Nigeria’s hope lies in the agriculture sector of the economy.
He further explained that the overhead tank apart from serving as source of reservoir for water, it provides cheap source of administering soluble fertilizer, and chemical spray using either the springler machines or the dripping process which he said is achievable within a single installation.
On the Screened House, Engineer Kuje said it serves as crop protection from insects, birds, and such other crop related infection or disease and ensures clean crop production.
He further said the technology irrigation is best for dry season agriculture practice, stressing that it is a sure way for the production of crops all year round.
The Deputy Rector who was around also reiterated the importance of the project in the attainment of academic excellence as, according to him, the students are taught theoretically and practically.
He used the forum to appeal to students in secondary schools as well as parents to encourage their wards to pursue the study of agriculture, science, and technology,it is the way of the modern world.
He emphasized that the College under the leadership of current Rector, Dr. Yahaya Maikafi is determined to reposition the college for global competitiveness.