Dear Esteemed Development Partners,

I hope this message finds you well. On behalf of the Plateau State College of Agriculture, Garkawa, I extend a warm invitation to you to join hands with us in our mission to revolutionize agricultural education and entrepreneurship in Nigeria.

Established in 1998 under the visionary leadership of Colonel Musa S. Shehu, our college has been steadfast in its commitment to training middle-level manpower in agriculture. Over the years, we have evolved to meet the changing demands of the agricultural sector, aligning our curriculum with the needs of the industry and the aspirations of our students.

SOME KEY CHALLENGES FACED BY THE COLLEGE

Plateau State College of Agriculture, Garkawa is faced with a number of challenges that limit its growth and development. The College Management wishes to use this medium to appeal to public-spirited individuals and corporate organizations to assist in mitigating these challenges so as to facilitate the training of middle level agricultural manpower in the country. The challenges are as follows:

1. The removal of Colleges of Agriculture from the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) financial intervention since 2011 has adversely affected the development of the College. There is urgent need for stakeholders to support the bills at the National Assembly for the re-inclusion of Colleges of Agriculture in the TETFund in order to boost agricultural development in the country.

2. There is a need for a guest house for the College and additional hostel blocks for students. The College currently has no guest house, and its students’ hostels are in deplorable condition. Investors are encouraged to partner with the College in the provision of these basic facilities.

3. As part of the requirements for the accreditation of its programme by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), the College needs some basic farm machineries and laboratories for students’ practicals. Individuals and corporate bodies are solicited to contribute towards the provision of these facilities.

4. The absence of perimeter fencing of the College is a major challenge which has exposed the College to serious security threats. The porous nature of its borders has also led to encroachments on its demarcation. A perimeter fencing would go a long way in protecting the College community and its facilities.

5. Due to non-supply of electricity and the scarcity of water in Garkawa town and its environs, the College depends entirely on the use of diesel to power its electricity generator to supply power and pump water from its boreholes. The surrounding community also depends on the College for its water supply. The provision of solar power would minimize the expenditure on power and water supply and reduce the pressure on the College lean financial resources.

At Plateau State College of Agriculture, we believe that agriculture is not merely a means of sustenance but a pathway to prosperity. With this ethos in mind, we are transitioning from a focus solely on agricultural extension to nurturing agripreneurs – individuals equipped not just to impart knowledge but to drive innovation, create jobs, and transform communities.

However, to fully realize this vision, we recognize the importance of strategic partnerships with organizations like yours. Here are areas where your support can make a significant difference:

Education Service Delivery Enhancement: Your expertise and resources can help us modernize our teaching methods, incorporate cutting-edge agricultural technologies into our curriculum, and provide experiential learning opportunities for our students.

Hostel Construction: Adequate accommodation is essential for creating a conducive learning environment. Your assistance in constructing hostels will ensure that our students have a comfortable place to reside, fostering a sense of belonging and enabling them to focus on their studies.

Scholarship Programs: Many talented individuals lack the financial means to pursue higher education. By establishing scholarship programs, you can empower deserving students to access quality agricultural education, regardless of their socioeconomic background.

Agricultural Extension and Technology: Collaboration with your organization will enable us to expand our reach and impact in agricultural extension services. Together, we can develop innovative solutions, provide technical assistance to farmers, and promote sustainable farming practices.

By partnering with Plateau State College of Agriculture, you not only invest in the future of our students but also contribute to the socioeconomic development of Nigeria. Together, we can harness the transformative power of agriculture to alleviate poverty, enhance food security, and foster economic growth.

We are eager to discuss potential partnership opportunities further and explore how we can work together to achieve our shared goals. Your involvement will be instrumental in shaping the next generation of agricultural leaders and innovators.

Thank you for considering our invitation. We look forward to the possibility of collaborating with you and making a lasting impact on agricultural education and entrepreneurship in Nigeria.

Warm regards,

From the PROVOST,
Plateau State College of Agriculture, Garkawa
email: info@plscoagric.edu.ng