Obaseki made the announcement during a visit to the proposed site of the institution, where he revealed that the school would admit and open with 2,000 students for its maiden academic session in September 2023.
“We have the administrative block, library, about three lecture theatres, one big auditorium with seating capacity of 1,000 students, and primary healthcare centre to attend to the school and community members.
We also have hostels but they can’t take all the 2,000 students. The community is encouraged to build houses as students will live off campus,” Obaseki said. He assured that the road leading to the school will be expanded, adding, “we are investing more in facilities, technology, broadband iInternet connection, fibres, and uninterrupted electricity, among others.”
The governor noted that his administration is putting more emphasis on the quality of governance in schools to enable it to produce quality graduates who will be assets to the society.
According to Obaseki, the School of Agriculture would provide quality education and practical training in various aspects of agriculture, with a focus on crop production, animal husbandry, fisheries, and agribusiness.
In addition to promoting education, the governor promised to provide critical infrastructure to support the institution and the surrounding community. He pledged to provide 24-hour electricity, build roads, and other necessary amenities to make life comfortable for the students and faculty.
Speaking further, Obaseki highlighted the importance of agriculture in the development of the state and noted that the School of Agriculture would play a vital role in enhancing food security, creating jobs, and promoting economic growth.
The governor also commended the people of Iguoriakhi for their support and cooperation in the establishment of the School of Agriculture, assuring them that the government would continue to prioritize their needs and welfare.
Speaking on behalf of the market women, President, Ovia South West Market Women Association, Elizabeth Osabuohien, thanked the governor for rebuilding the school into a world-class institution, noting that the school has opened business opportunities for market women.
With the commencement of academic activities at the School of Agriculture in Iguoriakhi, Edo State is set to take a giant stride towards becoming a hub for agricultural education and innovation, and the benefits are expected to ripple across the state and beyond.
