By Obinwanne Marvellous Ifunanya
The Agricultural Farm of Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka, continues to provide practical training opportunities for students despite challenges such as inadequate manpower, poor power supply, and insufficient farming equipment. During a visit to the university farm located at Site II, workers disclosed that the facility engages in aquaculture and crop farming activities aimed at enhancing the practical knowledge of students in agriculture-related disciplines.
Speaking with journalists, a farm worker, Davison, popularly known as “Oracle,” explained that the aquaculture section houses four species of fish, including Clarias (African catfish), Red Tilapia, and Grass Carp. According to him, the farm serves as a practical learning centre for students studying Agronomy, Fisheries, and Aquaculture. He noted that students regularly participate in hands-on training sessions organized by the farm management. “We usually organize training for students, and this semester we have carried out several practical activities for them,” he said.
Davison observed that students have shown considerable interest in agriculture through their active participation in both fish farming and crop production exercises. However, he identified inadequate manpower and a shortage of essential working tools as major challenges affecting the farm’s operations. During the visit, only two workers were seen attending to activities in the fish pond section of the farm.
Another worker, Ovirirri, stressed the need for improved machinery and a stable power supply to ease the workload and support aquaculture activities. “The work is very stressful for only two people. Machinery makes work easier, but we still lack some necessary equipment and stable electricity,” he said. He explained that electricity is crucial for pumping water into fish tanks and sustaining daily operations within the aquaculture unit.
The workers appealed to the university management and relevant authorities to increase funding, provide more farm materials and equipment, employ additional personnel, and ensure a regular power supply to enhance productivity and efficiency.
Despite these challenges, the DELSU Agricultural Farm continues to play a vital role in exposing students to practical agricultural education, particularly in aquaculture and crop production. The farm remains one of the university’s major centres for agricultural practicals, providing students with valuable field experience that complements classroom learning and prepares them for professional careers in agriculture.