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KSU representatives visited multiple Nigerian universities to explore collaborative opportunities

Kentucky State University (KSU) faculty members, Dr. Frederick Bebe and Dr. Theoneste Nzaramyimana and KSU student, Antyana Cowan, alongside two faculty members from Delaware State University (DSU), Dr. Samuel Besong and Dr. Rose Ogutu, visited the University of Calabar (UNICAL) in the Cross River State of Nigeria to implement the grant titled, “Collaborative Approach to Enhance Food Production and Quality to Improve Food Security in West Africa.” Funded by the USDA’s 1890 Universities Center of Excellence for Global Food Security and Defense, the project aims to strengthen collaboration and improve food production and quality in Nigeria.

During the trip, opportunities for future research and collaboration were discussed among the three universities. Several workshops were held at UNICAL to share knowledge and skills among the US universities and local Nigerian institutions. Topics included postharvest handling of horticultural produce, food processing and nutrition, global health and more. KSU and DSU were also able to share how land grant institutions and the extension system works in the US to serve local farmers and communities.

"Despite being in their exam period, UNICAL students and faculty were mobilized, engaged and enthusiastic about the workshops that went beyond the allotted timeframe," said Dr. Bebe, KSU Assistant Research Professor.

Additionally, visiting members were able to preview UNICAL’s Animal Science Farms as well as UNICAL’s Natural Resources Department’s forest where hands-on experiments were being conducted by students. DSU and KSU were welcomed to set up a demonstration plot at UNICAL’s Animal Science Farm. Cucumber and okra seeds were planted to demonstrate intercropping strategies that can be used to improve soil health and yield among smallholder farmers. At present, the plots are managed by UNICAL until KSU and DSU return to evaluate the project next year. An additional plot was given by one of the Chiefs who recognized the remarkable opportunity to engage with local and international universities. Planting of the community plot was done by UNICAL as per objectives of the grant. This community partnership will be essential moving forward to access and serve local farmers.

As the trip drew to a close, KSU and DSU visited two more institutions to explore future collaborations. These included the University of Abuja and the Cosmopolitan University of Abuja which heavily engages in research related to health and high technologies such as drones and computer engineering. One area of mutual interest for future research between the institutions was evaluating the role of nutrition in the management of sickle cell disease. Plans have been made with both institutions to explore future opportunities.

This trip helped foster deeper relationships with multiple institutions to address food insecurity and malnutrition in Nigeria. KSU and DSU will return in March 2025 to continue these developments.

Kentucky State University is an equal opportunity provider.