Auchi Polytechnic Host URBANE PROJECT and Vice Chancellor of Edo-State University, Iyamho.
The Vice Chancellor of Edo-State University, Iyamho, Prof Victor Olawale Adetimirin distributed free tomato seedlings to Auchi Polytechnic staff today, Thursday, 16th October 2025. He told staff that the URBANE PROJECT is a community engagement and development effort sponsored by the European Union. This gesture, he said, was to support economic resilience and agricultural empowerment.
The event took place at the Polytechnic Main Auditorium, Campus 1, between 1:00 pm and 2:00 pm, where staff members received up to ten (10) tomato seedlings each, on a first‑come, first‑serve basis. The seedlings represent a collaborative effort between University of Ibadan (UI), Edo State University Iyamho, and Liège Université Gembloux Agro‑Bio Tech under URBANE’s research on synbiotics (probiotics + prebiotics) to boost crop and livestock productivity.In her welcome remarks, the Rector’s representative, Dr. Engr. Edith Oyati (Deputy Rector Administration) reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to supporting staff welfare and fostering agricultural innovation as a response to present economic challenges. She described the seedlings distribution as both a gesture of support and a step toward sustainable farming measures within the Polytechnic community.
During the event, Prof. Adetimirin highlighted the importance of proper soil preparation, pest control, and nurturing methods to enhance yield. He further encouraged beneficiary staff of Auchi Polytechnic to view this as an opportunity not only for personal benefit but for contributing to local food security. He also emphasized that this activity aligns with broader goals to mitigate economic hardship by promoting agriculture as a source of income and sustenance. This he said will encourage more staff to engage in backyard farming and small‑scale cultivation within the campus and surrounding communities.
The Polytechnic Management expresses sincere gratitude to the URBANE Project, project collaborators, and staff for making the exercise possible. We look forward to tracking the success of this initiative and continuing collaboration in future agricultural and community development programs.
