COOU Partners LIFEWS Foundation on Maiden Agrivoltaics Conference in Nigeria

By Olisemeka Obeche

Management of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Anambra State has pledged to partner with LIFEWS Foundation for a successfull hosting of Maiden Agrivoltaics Conference in Nigeria.

The pledge was made on Tuesday, January 28, 2025 by the Acting Vice Chancellor of the Anambra State owned University, Prof. Kate Azuka Omenugha, when she hosted a delegation from LIFEWS Foundation in preparation for the Conference slated to hold in Awka, on March 26-27, 2025.

Prof. Omenugha, who appreciated the organizers for taking the lead in the technology revolution in agriculture by advancing research on Agrivoltaics, declared that the university management was ready to partner with foundation towards fruition of the project for the betterment of the society.

She reaffirmed that the foundation of all academic and scientific endeavors must be anchored in practical application rather than theoretical abstraction.

“I want to assure the team of our University’s readiness to provide all required support for the success of the conference”, the VC declared.

Earlier in his introductory remarks, the Program Coordinator of the project, and convener of Agrivoltaic Conference in Nigeria, Dr. Kingsley Ikechukwu Agụ, explained that the conference was aimed at diversifying research in agriculture, with particular emphasis on food security, renewable energy.
According to him, a successful hosting and commencement of pilot project of Agrivoltaics would position Anambra State and the Southeast region as pioneers in advancing climate-smart agricultural practices.

Also contributing, the Southeast Coordinator of the program, Engr. Dr. Chidi Nwafor, pointed out the overarching aim of the conference: to identify entrepreneurial minds and harness cutting-edge technological energy important for sustainable food production.
Dr. Nwafor further revealed the team’s resolve to extend sponsorship opportunities to select students and staff.

Other Members of the University management who were present in the meeting include; Prof. Osita Chiaghanam – Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academics, Prof. M. O. Ananti – Deputy Vice-Chancellor Administration, Sir. Chris Obi – Registrar, Dr. Nath Udezo – Ag. Bursar, and the Dr. Uche Enweani – the University Ag. Librarian.

Others are; Prof. C. Ugwumba, Dean, Faculty of Agriculture, Dr. C.O. Nwokoye – Manager, COOU Fish Farm, and Rev. Sr. Regina Chukwudozie – Farm Manager, COOU Farms.