By: Fatmata Grace Okekearu, Bo City
The School of Agriculture and Food Sciences at Njala University is undergoing significant transformation under the leadership of Professor Roland Suluku. Since his appointment as Dean, Professor Suluku has spearheaded a series of reforms aimed at improving infrastructure, academic quality, research output, and institutional partnerships.
One of his initial accomplishments was the grading of the main access road between the experimental fields and the school’s entrance. “It’s not yet paved, but it’s now much more accessible for staff and students,” he noted.
Professor Suluku also oversaw the creation of a comprehensive Agricultural Master Plan, bringing all 13 departments including Technology and Natural Resource Management under a unified strategic vision.
The school’s research profile has seen substantial growth. A 13-hectare irrigated vegetable farm, established in collaboration with Feed Salone, supports youth and women training initiatives while providing students with practical, hands-on experience. A monthly Research Colloquium has been launched, and all departments are actively contributing to a five-year Agricultural Investment Plan (2025–2030).
On the academic front, the Dean reported the completion of five PhD dissertations, with several more underway. He has introduced an agricultural science journal to encourage research publication and implemented a conference marking system to ensure timely grading and result dissemination.
Professor Suluku also emphasizes the role of spiritual values in academic life. “Every Wednesday, students gather to pray for the school. This has fostered a unique culture of unity and purpose,” he shared. In addition, the availability of electricity from noon to 5 p.m. has enhanced campus engagement and increased productivity among faculty members.
Under his leadership, the school has strengthened partnerships with institutions such as the Ministry of Health, Catholic Relief Services (CRS), and international research organizations. These collaborations have yielded advancements in rice production, animal insemination, and infectious disease research.
Despite these achievements, the Dean acknowledged the persistent challenges. “Our facilities were originally built to accommodate 200 students, but we now have over 2,000. Laboratory equipment is limited, and staff numbers are inadequate,” he said. He advocates for increased financial autonomy to enable reinvestment in infrastructure and staff development.
Looking to the future, Professor Suluku remains hopeful. “We are shaping the next generation of agricultural scientists. With better support, we can achieve even more,” he concluded.
Under his visionary leadership, the School of Agriculture and Food Sciences continues to be a model of innovation, resilience, and progress.