COOU Hosts Maiden Professional Induction Ceremony for Food Science Graduates

Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Igbariam Campus, on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, recorded a historic milestone as the Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Agriculture, successfully held its maiden Professional Induction Ceremony into the Nigerian Institute of Food Science and Technology (NIFST).

In her welcome address, the Head of Department, Dr. Comfort Nwagbo, warmly received guests and highlighted the significance of the induction ceremony as a bridge between academic training and professional practice in Food Science and Technology. Delivering the opening remarks, the Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, Prof. H. U. Nwalieji, emphasized the importance of discipline, cultural values, and professional ethics, symbolized through the traditional presentation of kolanut.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Kate Azuka Omenugha, FNIPR represented by the DVC Uli campus and Developmental affairs; Prof. Sylvia Okonkwo, reaffirmed the University’s commitment to producing industry-ready graduates and strengthening collaborations that enhance innovation and national development.

Also addressing the gathering, the President of NIFST, represented by Chief Dr. Ignatius Alaka, commended the University for aligning its academic standards with professional expectations and encouraged inductees to uphold the ethics of the profession. The keynote address was delivered by Mr. Chidi Eleodimuo, CEO of Blisco Foods, who spoke on “Professional Ethics and Career Opportunities in Food Science and Technology.”

He urged graduates to remain innovative, ethical, and adaptable in a rapidly evolving food industry.

In the induction lecture, Jude Olu Iwouno, explored the theme “Strengthening Industry-Academia Collaboration for Food Security and Innovation,” stressing the need for synergy between universities and industry players to address food security challenges.

In her vote of thanks, the Best Graduating Student, Blossom Ibekamma, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the University management, faculty, and the Nigerian Institute of Food Science and Technology for their unwavering support and commitment to academic and professional excellence, noting that the induction marks the beginning of a greater journey for the graduates.

©COOUNewS, 2026