On Friday, April 4th, during the Convocation Ceremony of the Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology (FCAH&PT), The Provost Dr. Adekoya Olatunde Owosibo delivered an inspiring address to the graduates, faculty, dignitaries and parent/guardian in attendance.

Emphasizing the college's unwavering commitment to training and impactful education, Dr. Owosibo said, “This great college is constantly doing its best in the area of training and impacting students, stakeholders, and winning the members of the public, not diverting from the specific objectives of reproducing graduates of National and Higher National Diploma levels that are morally sound, professionally skillful, and enterprising for sustainable agriculture, science, and rural development in Nigeria.”

He proudly acknowledged the achievements of FCAH&PT alumni who have made significant strides in both the public and private sectors, particularly in areas such as animal production and health, computer science technology, laboratory technology, statistics, and physics technology. “We take pride that some of our alumni are making waves in various sectors, serving as a testament to the rigorous training they received here,” he remarked.

Reflecting on the college's rich history, Dr. Owosibo noted that FCAH&PT was established on April 1, 1964, in response to the growing demand for veterinary assistance. He shared how the college initially aimed to train livestock assistants to better equip them for the challenges in the field. “The diploma course commenced in 1964 due to the urgent need to upgrade the training of personnel, ensuring they were prepared to meet these challenges,” he explained.

As he delved into the college's journey, he mentioned its integration into the Institute of Agricultural Research and Training, Ile-Ife, during the early 1970s, and its eventual accreditation by the Federal Government in 1985 through Decree No. 46 of December 1990, which allowed the college to confer National and Higher National Diplomas. The facility, now known as the Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology, Moor Plantation, Ibadan, received authorization from the MBT Kaduna with the approval of the then Hon. Minister of Science and Technology.

Dr. Owosibo also highlighted the college's significant contribution to Nigerian education, stating, “Ever since then, we have produced over 15,000 students, collaborating with public and private organizations in the areas of entrepreneurship and infrastructural development.” He expressed pride in the institution's faculty, noting, “We have sound, qualified, and productive professionals as members of staff. Currently, we boast over 60 PhD holders and more than 200 MSc holders, with this number still growing.”

In his address, the Provost detailed the academic programs offered at the college, stating, “At the National Diploma level, we offer: Animal Health and Production Technology, Science Laboratory Technology, Fishery Technology, Statistics, Computer Science, and Veterinary Laboratory Technology. At the Higher Diploma level, we offer: Animal Health Technology, Animal Production Technology, Agricultural Extension and Management, Agri-Business, Computer Science, Fishery Technology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, and Physics Electronics.”

Looking ahead, Dr. Owosibo mentioned upcoming programs, including Food Science Technology, Organic Agriculture Technology, Public Health Technology, and Environmental Health Technology. He also announced the recent introduction of a daily part-time program to better serve the diverse needs of students.

In concluding his address, he congratulated the graduating class, saying, “You have undergone rigorous practical and theoretical training and have been found worthy of good character and behavior. I therefore charge you to stay focused in life, set your targets, and avoid distractions. Make sure you are good ambassadors of this noble college.”

Dr. Owosibo's address resonated with the audience, inspiring graduates to embrace their future with determination and pride while reinforcing FCAH&PT's role as a leader in agricultural education in Nigeria.