UNICAL Faculty Begins In-House Palm Oil Production
The Faculty of Agriculture at the University of Calabar has commenced in-house palm oil production as part of efforts to promote self-sufficiency, enhance practical agricultural training, and boost internally generated revenue.
Dean of the Faculty, Prof. Chrysanthus Undiandeye, disclosed this during the 102nd Faculty Board Meeting held at the University Senate Chambers. He said the initiative aligns with the agricultural development agenda of the university's 12th Vice-Chancellor and is expected to reduce production costs while increasing revenue for the faculty.
According to him, the faculty had for years sold harvested palm fruits to external processors and subsequently purchased the finished oil. He explained that the new arrangement would enable the faculty to manage the entire production process, from harvesting to oil extraction, using its own milling facility.
Prof. Undiandeye said the decision was driven by the need to maximize the economic value of the faculty's palm plantation and channel proceeds into developmental projects.
He commended both teaching and non-teaching staff for their commitment and support, describing their cooperation as instrumental to the success of the project. He noted that the cordial working relationship within the faculty had contributed significantly to its progress.
To expand production, the dean disclosed that the faculty plans to plant an additional 2,000 palm seedlings at its nursery site within the university.
He added that the in-house milling operation would provide quality palm oil at a lower cost to members of the university community while generating funds to support research, teaching, and other faculty activities.
Prof. Undiandeye said the initiative positions the Faculty of Agriculture as a model for practical and sustainable agricultural enterprise within the university system.
The board meeting also featured a 3D presentation of a proposed ultra-modern faculty building by former Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Uche Amalu.
Members of the board observed a minute of silence in honour of the late Prof. Walter Binang, a former Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture and former Director of Agro-Allied Industry Ltd, University of Calabar.
