Anchor Varsity, DAAD Seek Laboratory Innovation to Boost Cocoa Production in West Africa
Funmi Ogundare Anchor University, Lagos and the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) have strengthened collaboration on agricultural research and capacity development, with a focus on using modern laboratory techniques to
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and Anchor University in Lagos have enhanced their collaboration on agricultural research and capacity development, particularly in utilizing modern laboratory methods to enhance cocoa production throughout West Africa. During the 2026 DAAD Alumni training program on cocoa propagation and production utilizing laboratory techniques, Vice-Chancellor of Anchor University, Prof. Samuel Oye Bandele, lauded DAAD for its support in research cooperation, agricultural innovation, and capacity building in Nigeria and the wider region.
Prof. Bandele highlighted that these initiatives generate opportunities for scholars with varied cultural and academic backgrounds to share ideas, broaden knowledge, and devise practical solutions to common developmental issues.
Prof. Bandele emphasized that research is more effective when focused on tangible outcomes in agriculture, food security, economic growth, and environmental sustainability. He noted that the cocoa/coconut research project is a strategic move to enhance agricultural productivity through scientific advancements. The vice-chancellor affirmed the university's dedication to research, innovation, knowledge transfer, and international academic partnerships, vowing to sustain a conducive atmosphere for scholarly engagement that tackles societal needs and national development priorities.
Prof. Bandele also praised Dr. Catherine Esuola from the Department of Biological Sciences for her leadership in organizing the program and fortifying the DAAD network. He urged the participants to uphold integrity, professionalism, accountability, and ethical standards in their research, emphasizing that trustworthy scholarship hinges on honesty, transparency, and responsibility.
Prof. Bandele encouraged the DAAD alumni and Humboldt Fellows to utilize the knowledge gained during the training for agricultural innovation, sustainable development, and improved academic collaboration across the region, believing this would cultivate enduring professional relationships and contribute to sustainable agricultural advancement in West Africa.
DAAD reiterated its commitment to agricultural research and capacity building in West Africa through its partnership with Anchor University, underscoring the significance of bolstering scientific expertise and research networks to tackle agricultural challenges in the region.
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