The Federal College of Horticulture, Dadin Kowa in Gombe State, has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing agriculture and environmental studies in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
The acting Provost of the institution, Umar Abdullahi Umar said this during the college’s 19th Matriculation ceremony, where he highlighted the institution’s positive impact on the surrounding community.
Represented by the Deputy Provost, Ibrahim Isiaka, the acting Provost said; “one of the college’s major achievements is its strong emphasis on entrepreneurship and practical skills development, which equips students for self-reliance after graduation.”
According to him, “many graduates are able to establish their own businesses with modest capital, particularly in areas such as nursery stock production and other vocational enterprises, thereby reducing dependence on government employment.”
He noted that this entrepreneurial approach has empowered many young people while also contributing to economic activities within the local community, Gombe State, and neighbouring states.
Dr. Isiaka also highlighted the college’s growing partnerships with several organisations aimed at ‘supporting farmers in Gombe State through digital financial solutions and climate change adaptation initiatives.’
He explained that “the institution had become an important resource centre for local farmers and herders, many of whom regularly visit the college for veterinary advice, vaccines and animal treatment.”
According to him, the college introduced new academic programmes, including Animal Health and Computer Studies, to better serve both students and residents.
Dr. Isiaka said; “the decision followed increasing demand from farmers seeking livestock healthcare services, demonstrating the institution’s responsiveness to the needs of its immediate environment.”
The Deputy Provost further revealed that under the strategic leadership of the acting Provost, student enrolment had risen sharply from between 400 and 500 to over 1,000, reflecting renewed confidence in the institution.
He announced that 1,266 students had been admitted into Higher National Diploma, National Diploma, certificate and pre-HND programmes.
Dr. Isiaka acknowledged that the college had faced significant early challenges, including unaccredited certificate and vocational courses which previously prevented graduates from participating in the National Youth Service Corps scheme.
However, he noted that “the institution has made considerable progress and remains committed to becoming a world-class horticultural college founded on academic excellence, entrepreneurship and sound moral values.”
Dr. Isiaka urged students to embrace discipline, effective time management and dedicated study habits, stressing that the institution maintains zero tolerance for examination malpractice, cultism, violent conduct, cybercrime and drug abuse.
