The Sustainable Agriculture Education and Empowerment (SAEE) project was officially inaugurated on May 26, 2025, marking a significant milestone in agricultural education for post-primary schools in Osun State. The ceremony brought together education stakeholders and students from six participating schools in a celebration demonstrating a collective commitment to advancing practical, sustainable agricultural learning and student empowerment.
The inauguration commenced with a thorough venue preparation at the Africa Center for Excellence, digital studio, Obafemi Awolowo University, campus, Ile-Ife. The careful attention to venue aesthetics and functionality ensured a comfortable and professional environment for all attendees, setting the tone for a memorable and impactful ceremony.
STUDENT MOBILIZATION AND REGISTRATION
Student mobilization was expertly coordinated by CFA project staff, who ensured the safe and timely transportation of students from their respective schools to the venue. This logistical effort demonstrated the organization’s commitment to inclusive participation and student welfare.
Upon arrival at the venue, a systematic registration process was implemented under the supervision of a dedicated CFA project staff. Each participating school was required to complete attendance documentation, ensuring accurate record-keeping for the event. To encourage school unity and facilitate easy identification, each participating school was provided with distinctively colored branded t-shirts given by the organization. The color codes of the selected schools include:
- School of Science, Ondo Road, Ile-Ife: Green T-shirts
- Moremi High School, OAU Campus: Red T-shirts
- Ife Girls, Eleyele, Ile-Ife: Black T-shirts
- Origbo Community Unity School: Royal blue T-shirts
- Modakeke Islamic, Ile-Ife: Yellow t-shirts
- St. John School: Navy blue T-shirts
This identification system not only created visual appeal but also strengthened school identity and pride among participating students.
ARRIVAL OF DISTINGUISHED GUESTS AND STAKEHOLDERS
The guests arrived at the venue, and they were all ushered in by the CFA project staff. The SAEE project inauguration was remarkable, as it attracted an impressive array of distinguished guests whose presence spoke volumes about the project’s credibility, potential impact, and the widespread recognition of its importance to the educational landscape of Osun state. The distinguished guests include: Government Representatives, such as:
- Honorable Commissioner of Education, Ife Zone
- Permanent Secretary of Education, Ife Zone
- Executive Secretary
We also had the presence of Pastor Tayo Akanbi and Pastor Mrs. Olamide Akanbi representing God’s(GLT) Ife Church as the Set Man Representatives. The educational leaders, like the principals and the teachers of the participating schools, were also present at the inauguration. Their presence at the inauguration represented more than just administrative compliance; it demonstrated genuine enthusiasm for an initiative that promised to address some of the most persistent agricultural challenges in their schools.
The attendance of these high-profile guests highlighted the project’s collaborative effort and strong commitment to advancing agricultural education.
CEREMONY PROCEEDINGS
Following the opening prayer, the Master of the Ceremonies formally invited the distinguished guests to the high table, according to proper recognition to each stakeholder.
KEYNOTE SPEECH – The Director of Christian Food Aid in person, Dr. Olujide Arije, delivered an insightful welcome address at the official inauguration of the SAEE project. He began by expressing sincere appreciation to the Hon. Commissioner for his presence, which he described as a rare privilege and a clear demonstration of the Commissioner’s commitment to children’s welfare. He also acknowledged the Permanent Secretary and the Executive Secretary of Education, Ife Zone, for their continued support of the project.
In his address, he provided a detailed background about Christian Food Aid, a faith-based non-governmental organization based in Ile-Ife, Osun State. He started the organization with his wife, Mrs Olubunmi Arije, in 2019. The organization operates with a compelling vision— “No one goes to bed hungry tonight.” Over the years, the NGO has implemented several outreach programs to support vulnerable populations, including prison visits, orphanage support, and food relief initiatives.
The SAEE program is a school-based agricultural project tailored to secondary schools in Osun State. The program’s primary aim is to equip students with essential sustainable agriculture skills, foster food production within schools, and promote sustainability. It also seeks to integrate sustainable agriculture into the school curriculum, reduce dependency on external food sources, and teach environmentally friendly farming techniques such as organic manuring and proper land preparation.
In closing, he highlighted the broader social impact of the program, noting that students who acquire agricultural skills can improve food security in their families and communities. He reiterated Christian Food Aid’s commitment to spiritual development alongside educational empowerment, pledging continued support through seasonal outreach events and school fellowship programs. The SAEE initiative, according to the director, is not just a program but a testimony of God’s faithfulness and a strategic step toward lasting change in food security, education, and community well-being.
Before the formal program came to an end, the Master of Ceremonies led an interactive session with the students. During this time, he asked them questions related to the SAEE project. This part of the event was not only lively but also served several important purposes. It helped to test how well the students understood the main ideas and goals of the SAEE project. By answering questions, students were able to show what they had learned and how much they had been following the program. Overall, the interactive session added great value to the program by combining learning with fun and making sure the students stayed engaged from start to finish.
Next was the Hon. Commissioner of Education, Osun State, who delivered an inspiring and forward-thinking speech during the inauguration of the Sustainable Agriculture Education and Empowerment (SAEE) program. His speech touched on several important themes that reflected both his passion for education and the broader vision of the Osun State government.
He began by expressing his sincere appreciation for being present at the event. The Commissioner expressed how he was genuinely happy to witness the inauguration of such an innovative program and pledged his continued support for initiatives that blend education with real-life skills. His words showed a deep commitment to promoting educational advancement in the state.
The Commissioner also took time to acknowledge and appreciate the students, who are the core focus of the SAEE project. He recognized their active participation and reminded them that they are the future leaders of the state and the nation. His words served as motivation and encouragement, affirming that the efforts made through the SAEE project were for their benefits.
He highlighted the practical benefits of agricultural education, noting that it addresses not just academic development, but also key issues like food security and self-reliance. By introducing students to farming, the program provides them with the tools to support themselves, their families, and their communities. In his closing remarks, the Commissioner reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting educational programs that combine innovation, practical knowledge, and community development. He concluded with a strong message of hope and determination, encouraging continued collaboration among all involved.
PERMANENT SECRETARY SPEECH
The Permanent Secretary of Education, Osun State, delivered heartfelt and encouraging remarks that resonated with both the audience and the purpose of the event. The Permanent Secretary went on to express his deep appreciation for being part of such a significant event. He conveyed his joy in witnessing the inauguration of a program that aligns closely with the current educational goals of Osun State, particularly those that aim to empower students through practical learning experiences.
A key part of his speech focused on the importance of agricultural education. He emphasized that agriculture is not just a subject but a vital skill that plays a key role in food security and sustainable development. By teaching students sustainable farming practices, the SAEE program helps to prepare them for real-life challenges while also addressing critical societal needs.
The Permanent Secretary concluded his remarks by giving strong support to the SAEE project. He highlighted its transformative potential and encouraged all stakeholders to support the initiative.
STAKEHOLDER TESTIMONIES
During the SAEE inauguration, principals, focal teachers, and students from the participating schools were allowed to share their thoughts and experiences. Their testimonies reflected strong support for the initiative and appreciation for the work already done.
One of the main points expressed by all the speakers was their deep gratitude to Christian Food Aid. They praised the organization for its commitment to improving education and bringing such a meaningful project to their schools. Many of them described the SAEE initiative as timely and well-developed.
The staff of the participating schools also shared how the project had already begun to make a difference. They noted positive changes in their students’ attitudes and interest in agriculture. Some even mentioned improvements in the school environment due to farming activities. These early results gave them confidence that the project would continue to grow and bring lasting benefits.
SIGNING OF MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING (MOU)
The inauguration ceremony successfully concluded with the formal signing of a Memorandum of Understanding by administrators from all six participating schools, establishing an official partnership framework.
HOSPITALITY, GUEST SERVICES, AND PHOTOGRAPHY SESSION
Christian Food Aid (CFA) went above and beyond to ensure all guests were well cared for, making everyone feel welcome and valued. The CFA welfare team took the lead in providing meals and refreshments. All attendees received branded souvenirs (T-shirts, Journals, and umbrellas). These items served as meaningful tokens, reminding them of the SAEE project and its important mission long after the event ended.
Overall, the hospitality and guest services at the event added warmth, comfort, and a personal touch that made the day even more memorable for everyone who attended. The SAEE inauguration was well-documented through organized photography sessions that captured the event’s important moments and colorful atmosphere. These photographs helped preserve the memories of the day and showed the beauty and unity of everyone involved.
Each participating school also took group pictures, proudly dressed in their unique, branded t-shirts. These school-specific pictures helped to highlight each school’s presence and added a personal touch to the event. In addition, outdoor picture sessions captured the lively and colorful scenes outside the venue, showing the energy and joy of the participants. Beautiful pictures of the participating schools dressed in their colorful t-shirts. Right after the ceremony came to an end, the Christian Food Aid (CFA) team carefully managed the process of returning students to their schools. The team made sure that all students were safely transported back with proper supervision.
Overall, these behind-the-scenes efforts played an important role in the success of the event, showing that CFA is not only focused on planning great programs but also on managing them responsibly from start to finish.