IITA awards EU-funded soil science fellowships to Liberian scholars

5 June 2026

IITA - CGIAR led EU-funded Soils4Liberia project, has facilitated the placement of three Liberian scholars at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) in Nigeria, as part of the project's human capacity building in soil science for the advancement of sustainable agricultural development in Liberia.

The partnership initiative involves IITA-CGIAR, the Government of Liberia institutions - the Ministry of Agriculture (MoA), the Central Agricultural Research Institute (CARI), the University of Liberia (UL), and FUNAAB. It is designed to develop a new generation of highly skilled soil scientists equipped to transform agricultural productivity and promote sustainable land and soil management practices in Liberia.

The three Liberian scholars, Dennis Daniel Goteh from the MOA, Rena Yeawon Kokeh Nuah from the UL, and Victoria Mawee Kafi from CARI, departed from Liberia on 20 May 2026 to commence their postgraduate studies at the University through the Centre of Excellence in Agricultural Development and Sustainable Environment (CEADESE). At CEADESE, they will undertake advanced studies in Crop/Pasture Production and Sustainable Environment, with a specialized focus on soil science.

The successful placement of these scholars at FUNAAB preceded months of strategic planning and coordination led by Dr Samuel Mesele, IITA Soil Scientist for the Soils4Liberia project. His facilitation was instrumental in fostering collaboration between the institutions and ensuring the successful realization of the academic partnership. These Liberian scholars will also receive mentorship from IITA scientists through their enrolment in the Graduate Research Fellowship Program, which enables young professionals to develop the research skills, attitude, and confidence needed for a successful career in agriculture.

During a formal reception held at the Vice Chancellor's Office, the Vice-Chancellor of FUNAAB, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, urged the Liberian scholars to remain focused and fully utilize the academic opportunities provided, emphasizing the program's role in contributing to Liberia's efforts to build technical capacity to sustain its soil resources for improved agricultural production and productivity.

He further noted that the study was deliberately structured to equip scholars with relevant technical expertise and practical skills and assured them that the University remains committed to providing a conducive and supportive academic environment throughout their stay.

Meanwhile, the Director of CEADESE, Prof. Adeboye Fafiolu, highlighted the availability of excellent facilities, experienced faculty, and a research-driven environment designed to enhance academic excellence and practical impact.

In separate remarks, the Liberian scholars expressed gratitude to IITA, FUNAAB, the Government of Liberia, and the European Union Delegation to Liberia for the opportunity, pledging to remain committed, disciplined, and diligent in their academic pursuits.

This collaboration and partnership are expected to further deepen institutional ties between Nigeria and Liberia, while contributing meaningfully to regional agricultural research and development, particularly by addressing the critical shortage of soil management experts in Liberia.

Contributed by Daniel Momo Sirleaf