IFSA TREECLUB UI, Academic Trip in the Federal University of Technology of Akure, Akure.

Forty-two practical year students, accompanied by the departmental coordinator for the practical year students, Dr. P. O. Ige and Mr. Fatoba, embarked on an enlightening visit to four sections in the Federal University of Technology Akure: the Center for Space and Research Application, the Department of Forestry and Wood Technology Gmelina arborea and Tectona grandis plantation, the Department of Forestry and Wood Technology wet laboratory and the Department of Forestry and Wood Technology wood workshop. On January 8, 2024, IFSA TREECLUB practical year forestry students set out on a comprehensive exploration of the Federal University of Technology of Akure, Akure, exploring various aspects of their academic curriculum and beyond. In keeping with their academic goals, this immersive experience attempted to increase their practical grasp of how complex wood is, how to effectively convert wood for various purposes and how to best incorporate spatiotemporal and distant sensored data into forestry. Even with the time limits, this practical experience helped to improve understanding by allowing the academic information to be applied in a real-world setting.

 (Above) A group picture of some practical year students with Dr. Samuel Akande at Centre for Space and Research Application and the H.O.D of the Department, Mrs. Akinwonmi F.C.

The students of the IFSA Tree Club were guided through the Federal University of Technology Akure’s Department of Forestry and Wood Technology. Professor A.G. Adedayo, the department head, gave a metaphorical speech under the guidance of eminent lecturers on the importance of the extensive knowledge gained as foresters and how much of it should be shared in the three “S”: scientifically, systematically, and strategically. Dr. Owoyemi greeted the students and gave them motivational speeches about the variety of career options in forestry. This brief but profound talk had a lasting impression, igniting interest and a greater comprehension of the complexities of forestry.

With a focus on environmental stewardship, the IFSA Tree Club invited IFSA FUTA to a football game, fusing sustainability and sport. Acknowledging the value of unity in furthering their mission, IFSA FUTA eagerly welcomed the challenge. Players wearing shirts with environmental themes displayed a competitive spirit as well as a common passion for a cleaner planet during the friendly match. Conversations on sustainability flowed naturally from game stories after the final score, creating links that went beyond the football field. As evidence that a greener, more sustainable future is not just a pipe dream but an actual reality simply waiting to be embraced, the IFSA Tree Club’s commitment to environmental activism finds resonance.

(Above) Collective photograph of IFSA TREE CLUB and IFSA FUTA players after the match

The IFSA TREECLUB visit to the Federal University of Technology Akure, in conclusion, summed up a rich tapestry of experiences by immersing students in innovative practical forestry, exploring the complexities of forestry, and demonstrating the potent fusion of sustainability and sports. We are grateful to the IFSA Tree Club, IFSA FUTA, departmental lecturers, Federal University of Technology Akure and the University of Ibadan for arranging a learning experience that broke through conventional norms and profoundly impacted the academic and personal development of the IFSA TREECLUB practical year students.

Author: Egboche Ehikowoicho Iyanuoluwa Treeclub UI Vice president and 400level Forestry practical year students