The Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU) was established in May 2017. Since its inception, the department has made significant strides in both academic and practical realms, making it a hub for fisheries and aquaculture education in Nigeria.

Important Milestones:

1. Creation of Commercial Fish Farm: The establishment of a commercial fish farm has been pivotal. It serves as a practical training ground for students, a research facility, and a source of income for the department.

2. Construction of Hatchery: The department boasts a state-of-the-art hatchery for artificial fish breeding and propagation. This facility is crucial for teaching, research, and increasing fish production.

3. Water Quality Analysis Laboratory: A fully equipped laboratory for analyzing water quality has been set up. This lab ensures that the water used in fish culture is of the highest quality, facilitating both research and practical learning.

4. Collaborations: The department has established collaborations with various local and international institutions, enhancing the quality of lectures and research opportunities.

Leadership

The department has been led by dedicated and visionary leaders since its establishment. The past and current Heads of Department (HODs) include:

1. Dr. C.O. Nwokoye (2017-2019)
2. Prof. V.N. Arazu (2019-2021)
3. Dr. C.O. Nwokoye (2021-2024)
4. Dr. K.A. Ugwaka (2024 to date)

Achievements

Since its establishment, the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture has achieved numerous milestones:

1. Graduation of Pioneer Students: The first cohort of students graduated with impressive results, including five second class upper and three second class lower degrees.

2. Management of University Fish Farm: The department successfully manages the university’s fish farm, which serves as a practical training ground and a source of income.

3. Modern Hatchery: The construction of a modern hatchery has significantly enhanced the department’s capabilities in teaching, research, and fish propagation.

4. Collaborations with Agro-Allied Industries: These collaborations provide students with practical experiences, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world applications.

Goals and Future Targets

The Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture is committed to continuous improvement and has set ambitious goals for the future:

1. International Competitions and Fairs: The department aims to participate in and win international competitions and fairs, showcasing the talents and innovations of its students and faculty.

2. Partnerships and Linkages: Establishing and strengthening partnerships with international and national institutions to enhance the quality of education and research.

3. Scientific and Innovative Breakthroughs: Focusing on scientific research and innovations that contribute to community service and address real-world challenges.

4. Comprehensive Training: Producing graduates capable of constructing fish farms, aquariums, water fountains, swimming pools, and fish hatcheries.

5. Global Employment Opportunities: Preparing students to work with international commercial fishing firms and aquatic pollution control companies.

6. Entrepreneurship: Fostering a spirit of entrepreneurship, enabling graduates to start their own businesses in fish feed production, fingerling production, and other agricultural sectors.

Producing graduates who can lecture in higher institutions, conduct research, and work as seamen offshore.

Mission and Philosophy

Mission Statement:

The mission of the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture is to produce high-level manpower competent in both theory and practice. The department aims to address sustainable development issues related to fisheries and aquaculture, manage the fin-fish and shellfish resources of Nigeria’s water bodies, and produce graduates with high entrepreneurial capacities. These graduates will be equipped to achieve self-actualization in employment and contribute to the country’s animal protein needs through improved breeding stocks, efficient feed resources, and sustainable husbandry of fish and other aquatic animals.

Philosophy:

The undergraduate program is designed to be broad-based, providing practical and functional training in various areas of agriculture, with a focus on fisheries and aquaculture. The department’s philosophy aligns with the university’s overarching goal of “restoring the dignity of man.” This is achieved through rigorous academic programs that combine theoretical knowledge with practical skills, preparing students to face challenges in self-reliance and contribute meaningfully to national and societal development.

Admission Requirements and Procedures

Undergraduate Admission Requirements:

1. UTME Entry Requirements:

   – Credit passes in five WASC/GCE/NECO subjects, including English, Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology/Agricultural Science, and one other subject (Physics, Geography, Economics, Health Science, or Home Economics).

   – A minimum JAMB score of 200.

2. Direct Entry Requirements:

   – National Diploma, HSC, or NCE with a minimum of lower credit in related areas, in addition to five credits in WASC/GCE/NECO O’ Level (as per UTME requirements).

Postgraduate Admission Requirements:

1. General Requirements:

   – A minimum CGPA of 3.0 from a recognized department of Fisheries and Aquaculture or related field.

Admission Procedures:

Admission Deferment and Transfer:

– Deferment: Admission deferment may be granted provided the candidate meets the university’s policy on the deferment of admission.

– Transfer from Another University: Transfer students from recognized universities shall be admitted following the conditions stipulated in the Undergraduate Academic Regulations of COOU.

Instructions for New Students:

1. Report to the Faculty Officer with certificates/statement of results for clearance.
2. Obtain a Temporary Clearance Slip and a Registration Number if qualified.
3. Pay the necessary fees at the bank and obtain a receipt from the Bursary Unit.
4. Present payment receipt, bank teller, five identical recent passport photographs, original UME results, original certificates/statement of results, and evidence of date of birth/change of name/marriage certificate to the Faculty Officer.

Programmes Offered

The Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture offers a comprehensive range of programs designed to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in their careers:

– B.Sc. in Fisheries and Aquaculture

– Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) in Fisheries and Aquaculture

– M.Sc. in Fisheries and Aquaculture

– Ph.D. in Fisheries and Aquaculture