NAFSTS UI HOLDS ITS FOOD WEEK
The National Association of Food Science and Technology Students, NAFSTS has been organizing their Food Week, filled with events and activities aimed at showcasing innovation in the field of Food Technology.
The week kicked off on February 19, 2024, with the Food Week conference. The opening speech was given by NAFSTS Vice President, Boluwatife Oluwasakin, who highlighted the theme of the event, “Nutraceuticals: Fuelling Health through Food Technology Innovations” and urged the attendees to explore the numerous potentials of food technology. The Guest Lecturer, Dr Folashade Adegboyejo emphasized two things which would always remain evolving through time, “Food and Technology” and “Agriculture and Technology”. She encouraged students to actively engage in learning and innovation.
Dr Adeboyejo also discussed the concept of nutraceuticals and shared her experience in maximizing the nutrients in agbalumo, an African star fruit. Furthermore, she highlighted the importance of innovation in food technology, pointing out Nigeria’s need to catch up in this regard.
The conference featured a quiz competition in which the Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology emerged first over the University of Ibadan. In conclusion, the NAFSTS President, Olayinka Oyedola in his closing remark appreciated every attendee and recognized the presence of the TESA president, Eyoufe Odafeoghene and other departmental presidents in the faculty.
Day Two of the Food Week featured an industrial visit to the Coca-Cola Bottling Company Asejire Plant which aimed at providing students with real-world insights into the food industry. Following the visit, a day was dedicated to food exhibition and development which allowed students to come up with unique products for sale alongside vendors from the University.
One of the highlights of the week was the Department Bakery Launch, which included a baking competition. Sponsored by the Flour Mills of Nigeria, five teams competed, creating a variety of breads. The winning team received a sum of one hundred thousand naira. Lecturers from the department, the Student Union President of the University of Ibadan, Samson Tobiloba Samuel and students from across faculties in the University graced the event.
As the week comes to a close, the Food Week will be concluded with a Games and Movie Night on February 23, 2024, to provide a relaxing and enjoyable end to the weeklong event.
By: Nimotallahi Raji
