The Department of Soil Science at the Nyankpala Campus of the University for Development Studies (UDS) has unveiled a renovated Soil Science Laboratory, courtesy of a collaborative effort with the Japan International Research Centre for Agricultural Sciences (JIRCAS) (with funding from the Non-Foundation) and the DecLaRe. The building also hosts the Entomology, Animal Nutrition and Tissue Culture laboratories.

The laboratories, which have been upgraded with state-of-the-art equipment and facilities, are expected to enhance research and training in soil science, pest control, animal nutrition, and plant tissue culture, which are critical areas of study in agricultural science.

The renovation of the laboratory building is part of a broader initiative to strengthen the Department of Soil Science's capacity to conduct cutting-edge research and provide high-quality training to students and researchers.

A visit by the Principal of the Nyankpala Campus, Professor Mohammed Muniru Iddrisu, expressed his gratitude to JIRCAS and DecLaRe projects for their support, noting that the renovated laboratory building would significantly enhance the university's research capabilities. He also congratulated the Head of Department, Professor Vincent Kodjo Avornyo for taking the initiative to partner with such supportive institutions that have relentlessly supported in this direction.

"We are thrilled to have this state-of-the-art laboratory, which will enable our students and researchers to conduct world-class research in soil chemistry, soil physics, soil microbiology, etc," Prof. Muniru said. "This collaboration is a testament to our commitment to building strong partnerships and advancing knowledge in critical areas of agriculture and other related sciences."

The Principal also expressed interest in making the renovated Soil Science Laboratory a hub for interdisciplinary collaboration among related sciences. He noted that the laboratory's state-of-the-art equipment and facilities make it an ideal platform for researchers from various disciplines to come together and explore new areas of research.

"We want to create an environment where researchers from different departments can collaborate and share their expertise," the Principal said. "By doing so, we can foster innovative research and solutions that can address the complex challenges facing our society."

The Principal identified potential collaborators, including researchers from the departments of Agricultural Engineering, Physics, and Chemistry, to explore the applications of soil science in soil sustainability, conservation and crop production.

The head of the department, Professor Avornyo, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Principal of the campus for visiting the renovated Soil Science Laboratory. He noted that the Principal's visit demonstrated his commitment to and interest in the department's research and academic activities. "We are deeply grateful for your visit to our renovated laboratory," Professor Avornyo said. "Your presence here today is a testament to your support for our department and your enthusiasm for interdisciplinary collaboration."

The Head of Department acknowledged the Principal's vision for fostering interdisciplinary research and collaboration among related sciences. "Your vision for interdisciplinary collaboration aligns perfectly with our department's goals and aspirations," Professor Avornyo said. "We are excited about the potential collaboration and knowledge sharing opportunities that this laboratory presents." He reaffirmed the department's commitment to interdisciplinary research and collaboration and indicated that they were committed to working closely with other departments and faculties to explore new areas of research and address the complex challenges facing our society,.

He said the department was pleased to have initiated this project, which will contribute to the development of soil science research in Ghana and beyond.

Story by
Joseph S. Attiah
Deputy Registrar
Nyankpala Campus