Writing By Khadijah Aliyu, Editing By Godwin Duru
The Federal College of Agricultural Produce Technology (FCAPT), Kano says 1,409 youths from Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones have received specialized training in modern agricultural practices, processing, storage, and preservation techniques.
The Provost, Dr. Muhammad Yusha’u Gwaram, made the disclosure while briefing journalists in Kano.
The Provost highlighted the college’s efforts in youth empowerment, stating that the trainings are designed to make participants either self-employed or immediately employable.
According to him, companies regularly approach the college for top-performing graduates, indicating strong confidence in the quality of its training.
He noted that the FCAPT has achieved major academic and infrastructural milestones, including the presence of 13 PhD holders and 33 MSc-qualified academic staff.
“FCAPT runs 19 fully accredited academic programs aligned with the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) standards in the last five years”
Dr Gwaram outlined the institution’s growth in human capital, industry partnerships, and community impact over the past five years.
“We have supported many of our staff in pursuing higher education. Many have completed their PhDs and Master’s programs, while others are at various stages of completion,”.
The provost explained that, as part of its mandate under the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN) Act, the college has launched a spin-off company that will focus on the production of tomato paste, quick meals, and kunnun tsamiya, a traditional local beverage.
Dr Gwaram explained that, the company, fully registered with NAFDAC, Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), and the Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON), is expected to launch its products into the national market soon.
“To support production, the college has acquired state-of-the-art equipment including:A fluidized bed dryer, A precision multipurpose carbinate dryer and An automated granules and powdered packaging machine”
“Once fully operational, the company will also serve as a training and employment ground for our students, giving them practical industry exposure,”.
The provost maintained that, the college continues to grow through collaboration with notable partners including GIZ, Indorama Fertilizer, UNESCO, International Potato Center, Self Help Africa, Industrial Training Fund (ITF), NBTE, and the Center for Community Development and Research.
Dr. Gwaram also reaffirmed the institution’s strong commitment to staff welfare and capacity building, noting that faculty and staff have benefited from various local and international seminars, conferences, and workshops to enhance their professional growth.
COV/ Khadijah Aliyu
