The Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU), has successfully harvested cucumbers from its newly established smart greenhouse, marking a significant step in the institution’s efforts to promote modern agricultural technology and food security.
University officials said the cucumbers were cultivated and harvested within 45 days using a soilless farming system that relies on automated control of water, nutrients, temperature, and pest management.
The greenhouse project is expected to serve as a research and training centre for students, farmers, and agricultural extension workers, while also demonstrating innovative solutions for increasing food production.
Project Supervisor, Prof. Mabel Onwuka, described the harvest as the successful completion of a pilot production cycle designed to test the efficiency of the advanced farming system.
The university said the initiative aligns with its commitment to advancing climate-smart agriculture and bridging the gap between research and practical farming.
