By Nwobodo Chidinma

Enugu – On 19th November, 2024, the Enugu State University of Science and Technology, ESUT, showcased to the global community its technological innovations aimed at making lives better.

The 14 Faculties in the University displayed their innovative works ranging from edible food to electrical appliances, footwears, books, electric-powered tricycle, artifacts, among others.

Interestingly, the Executive Governor of the State, Barr Dr Peter Ndubisi Mbah was on ground to inspect the exhibition and he left the Pavilion, happy and later on the convocation day, November 23, made a pledge of ₦50 000 000.00 to support the innovative ideals of the university

The exhibition, which took place at the school pavilion featured an impressive array of products developed and invented by the faculty of Agriculture, including Esut bread, jam, mayonnaise, meatpie, pepper and indomie.

The event provided a unique opportunity for the governor to engage with the faculty members and learn about their innovative ingenuity to agricultural production.

Prof Justina Ngbada, the lead coordinator gave a tour of the exhibition, highlighting the unique features of the innovations.

“Our pepper is different from other peppers in the market” she explained, “we have developed a proprietary blend of spices that gives our pepper a distinct flavour and aroma”.

Dr. Nkem Umera, another member in the faculty discussed the health benefits of the indomie and ESUT Bread. “We have developed a unique recipe that incorporates wheat into our indomie noodle and bread production. This innovation makes our products accessible to both young and old, addressing previous health concerns associated with the usual indomie noodle”.

She also stated the price of the bread is ₦2000.

When asked about the challenges faced by the Faculty during production prof. Emeka Nzeh Dean of the Faculty of cited financial constraints “The main challenge was funding because we have the capable hands. Despite these challenges, we remain committed to driving innovation and entrepreneurship in agriculture”.

He also expressed his excitement concerning the visit of the governor and the Vice-Chancellor and the fact that an innovative activity has come to play again in ESUT, stating how agriculture has helped in the growth of the economy in the state

The event marked a significant milestone in the university’s efforts to promote innovation and entrepreneurship in agriculture. As the faculty continues to develop novel products.

Chidinma Nwobodo is a 200 level student of Mass Communication Department, ESUT.