The Department of Crop Science and Horticulture was formally established in the 2005/2006 academic session, marking the beginning of a journey dedicated to agricultural excellence. The establishment was a significant milestone for COOU, as it expanded the university’s offerings in the agricultural sciences and responded to the increasing need for specialized education in crop science and horticulture.

The department commenced its operations at the Igbariam campus with a modest intake of eleven students and five academic staff members. Despite its humble beginnings, the department quickly gained recognition for its commitment to quality education and research. The National Universities Commission (NUC) approved the department’s establishment during the same session, further validating its importance in the academic landscape.

Important Milestones

Since its inception, the Department of Crop Science and Horticulture has achieved several key milestones that underscore its growth and development. Among the most notable are:

1. Creation of a Laboratory for Student Research: The department established a well-equipped laboratory that has become a hub for student research and experimentation. This facility provides students with the tools and resources needed to conduct innovative research, enhancing their learning experience and contributing to the body of knowledge in crop science and horticulture.
2. Development of a Screen House for Indoor Experiments: To facilitate controlled environment research, the department constructed a screen house. This facility allows students and faculty to conduct indoor experiments, particularly those related to plant growth and protection, under carefully regulated conditions. The screen house has become an invaluable asset in the department’s research endeavors.

Leadership and Vision

The success of the Department of Crop Science and Horticulture can be attributed to the visionary leadership of its heads of department (HODs) over the years. These leaders have played a crucial role in shaping the department’s direction, ensuring that it remains at the forefront of agricultural education and research.

1. Dr. P.S.O. Okoli (2005-2010): The first HOD, Dr. Okoli, laid the foundation for the department’s future success. His leadership was instrumental in establishing the department’s initial programs and securing the necessary resources to support its growth.
2. Dr. A.I. Ekesobi (2010-2019): During Dr. Ekesobi’s tenure, the department expanded its academic offerings and research initiatives. His long-term leadership provided stability and continuity, allowing the department to build on its early successes.
3. Mr. D.N. Igili (2019-2021): Mr. Igili’s leadership saw the department through a period of modernization, with a focus on incorporating new technologies and methodologies into the curriculum. His efforts helped position the department as a leader in innovative agricultural education.

4. Dr. J.T. Onwughalu (2021-2024): Dr. Onwughalu’s tenure was marked by a renewed emphasis on research and community engagement. Under his guidance, the department strengthened its ties with local agricultural communities and expanded its outreach efforts.
5. Mr. E.N. Ngonadi (2024-Present): The current HOD, Mr. Ngonadi, is leading the department into a new era of growth and innovation. His vision includes expanding the department’s international collaborations and enhancing its reputation as a center of excellence in crop science and horticulture.

Academic Programs and Structure

The Department of Crop Science and Horticulture offers a comprehensive range of academic programs designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the agricultural sector. The degree programs are structured to provide a balanced education that combines theoretical knowledge with practical training.

The undergraduate program lasts four or five years, depending on the mode of entry. The curriculum is designed to provide broad training in basic agricultural science during the first three years. In the fourth year, students undergo a full year of practical training in farm operations, gaining hands-on experience that is crucial for their professional development. In the final year, students have the opportunity to specialize in one of three areas: Crop Production, Crop Protection, or Horticulture. This specialization allows students to focus on their areas of interest under the guidance of experienced faculty members.

Mission and Philosophy

The mission of the Department of Crop Science and Horticulture is to play a vital role in seed and crop production, ensuring food sufficiency for Nigeria’s growing population and meeting the needs of future generations. The department is committed to producing highly improved and sustainable agronomic products through innovative research and practical training.

The department’s philosophy is rooted in the belief that education should be both practical and functional. The department aims to produce graduates who are not only knowledgeable but also capable of applying their knowledge in real-world settings. This philosophy is reflected in the department’s emphasis on practical training, research, and community engagement.

Achievements

Over the years, the Department of Crop Science and Horticulture has achieved several significant milestones, reflecting its commitment to excellence in education and research:

1. Graduation of Undergraduate and Postgraduate Students: The department has successfully graduated numerous students at both the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. These graduates have gone on to make significant contributions to the agricultural sector, both in Nigeria and internationally.
2. Full Accreditation in 2019: The department received full accreditation from the NUC in 2019, a testament to the quality of its programs and the effectiveness of its teaching methods. This accreditation has further solidified the department’s reputation as a leading center for agricultural education.
3. Novel Research in Crop Science and Horticulture: The department has been at the forefront of innovative research in crop science and horticulture, with faculty and students making important contributions to the field. This research has not only advanced academic knowledge but has also had practical applications in improving agricultural practices.
4. Development of Innovative Undergraduate and Graduate Curricula: The department has continually updated and refined its curricula to reflect the latest developments in agricultural science. This commitment to curriculum development ensures that students receive a modern and relevant education that prepares them for the challenges of the agricultural industry.

Future Targets

Looking ahead, the Department of Crop Science and Horticulture has set ambitious goals for the future. These targets reflect the department’s commitment to continuous improvement and its desire to remain at the cutting edge of agricultural education and research:

1. Participation in International Competitions and Fairs: The department aims to increase its visibility on the international stage by participating in global competitions and fairs. This will not only showcase the department’s achievements but also provide students and faculty with opportunities to network and collaborate with their peers from around the world.
2. Expansion of Research Frontiers in Crop Science and Horticulture: The department is committed to expanding its research efforts, particularly in areas that have the potential to address global challenges such as food security and climate change. By pushing the boundaries of agricultural science, the department hopes to contribute to sustainable solutions for the future.
3. Enhancement of Educational Offerings through Online Learning Platforms: The department plans to leverage technology to enhance its educational offerings. This includes the development of online learning platforms, which will make the department’s programs more accessible to a wider audience. These platforms will also facilitate collaboration with other educational institutions and provide students with additional resources to support their learning.
4. Strengthening Industry Partnerships: The department recognizes the importance of strong ties with the agricultural industry. To this end, it will continue to build and strengthen partnerships with industry leaders, ensuring that its programs remain relevant and aligned with the needs of employers. These partnerships will also provide students with valuable internship and job placement opportunities.
5. Driving Societal Impact through Mentorship Programs: The department is committed to making a positive impact on society by mentoring the next generation of agricultural leaders. Through its mentorship programs, the department will provide students with the guidance and support they need to succeed in their careers and make meaningful contributions to the agricultural sector.
6. Enhancement of Institutional Reputation through Industry Collaboration and Digital Branding: The department will continue to enhance its reputation by collaborating with industry partners and engaging in digital branding efforts. This will include increasing its online presence and leveraging social media to promote its programs and achievements.

Admission Requirements and Procedures

The Department of Crop Science and Horticulture offers admission to both undergraduate and postgraduate students. The admission requirements and procedures are designed to ensure that only qualified candidates are admitted to the program.

Undergraduate Admission Requirements:

1. Candidates must have a minimum of five credits in relevant O’Level subjects, including Mathematics, English, Agriculture, Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Economics, Geography, Health Science, and Home Economics.
2. Candidates must achieve a JAMB score of at least 200.
3. Direct entry candidates must possess relevant National Diploma (ND), Higher National Diploma (HND), or National Certificate Examination (NCE) certificates with a minimum of lower credit, in addition to meeting the UME requirements.

Postgraduate Admission Requirements:

1. Candidates must have a minimum CGPA of 3.0 from a related department such as Agricultural Economics and Extension or a related field.

Admission Deferment and Transfer Procedures:

1. Deferment of admission may be granted provided the candidate meets the university’s policy on the deferment of admission.
2. Candidates must apply for transfer through JAMB and provide the necessary documentation to facilitate the process.

Matriculation Ceremony:

The matriculation ceremony is an important event in the academic calendar, marking the formal admission of new students into the department. Students are required to swear an oath of allegiance, sign the matriculation register, and fulfill other requirements as specified by the university.

Induction Ceremony:

Upon completion of their programs, graduates are formally inducted into the agricultural profession through a ceremony organized by the Nigerian Institute of Agricultural Professionals (NIAP).

Orientation and Registration:

The orientation and registration process is designed to familiarize new students with the department’s policies, procedures, and facilities. This process includes the verification of academic documents and the issuance of identity cards.

Examination Requirements:

To be eligible to sit for examinations, students must:

1. Register for all courses.
2. Have an attendance rate of at least 75%.
3. Fulfill the faculty’s examination requirements.