Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin, has commenced commercial cassava harvesting as part of efforts to boost internally generated revenue, enhance students’ practical training, and contribute to food security.

Speaking during the institution’s maiden cassava harvest in Ilorin, the Rector, Engr. Dr. Abdul Jimoh Mohammed, said the initiative reflects the polytechnic’s commitment to combining academic learning with agricultural entrepreneurship while reducing reliance on government funding.

Mohammed explained that the institution has expanded into commercial cultivation of cassava and maize, alongside the development of cocoa and oil palm plantations as part of a long-term agricultural investment strategy.

“What we are witnessing today is just the beginning. Agriculture provides enormous opportunities for employment, ensures food availability and serves as a reliable source of income. That is why we have decided to invest in it,” he said.

The rector disclosed that the Department of Food Science and Technology will process produce from the commercial farm into finished products, including cassava chips, palm oil and cocoa-based products, to increase value addition and generate more revenue for the institution.

He added that proceeds from the cassava harvest would be reinvested to expand the farming project, noting that agricultural investments require patience due to their high initial costs. Mohammed also commended the Kwara State Government for providing agricultural equipment that has improved farm operations and reduced production costs.

According to the rector, students are actively involved in the farming activities as part of their practical training, describing the project as a blend of education, research and entrepreneurship aimed at producing graduates with hands-on agricultural experience.

Chairperson of the Kwara State Polytechnic Commercial Farm and Chief Lecturer in the Department of Agricultural and Bio-Environmental Engineering, Engr. Ruth Modupe Bayeri, described the maiden harvest as a major milestone for the institution.

She praised the rector for supporting the project from its inception and said the successful harvest had validated the institution’s investment in commercial agriculture. Bayeri added that the initiative would strengthen practical skills acquisition, promote innovation and support sustainable agricultural development.