About IARD

The Institute of Agricultural Research and Development (IARD) of the University of Port Harcourt was one of the academic units approved by the National Universities Commission (NUC) of Nigeria for the University at its inception in 1975. However, the IARD was only to be established in 1982; seven years after the NUC approval. Its mandate is to tackle the problems of agriculture and rural development of the Niger Delta of Nigeria, so as to develop the agricultural potentials of the region. The overall research goal of the Institute is to mitigate the challenges of agriculture as they affect peasants and small-scale farmers in the region.

 

The process of making the new IARD commenced in 2010. Presently, programmes and activities of the Institute have been reviewed in line with current scientific, economic and social realities in the Niger Delta and global best practices. As a result, the ongoing research of the IARD centers around the new vision, mission and core values targeted at rebranding the Institute as the preferred agricultural research, training and development institute.

 

Vision

To be a world class institute where agricultural, fisheries and forestry research, training and development are conducted in a sustainable manner based on global best practices.

 

The IARD Mission

To develop and propagate improved relevant innovative agricultural, fisheries, forestry and environmental management technologies in synergy with indigenous practices in the Niger Delta, thereby contribute to attainment of the strategic national and international goals for poverty reduction, food security and sustainable environmental management.

 

Core Values

We ensure professionalism, integrity, excellence, and dedication in what we do.

 

Statement of Goal

Continuous reorganization and rebranding to, effectively, carry out institutional mandate in a world of globalization and changing climate.

 

Medium-Term (2012-2014) Objectives

§  To enhance research capacity building for a more holistic institutional development.

§  To develop strategies for proactive sourcing of research grants, scholarships and fellowships.

§  To engage in and maintain collaboration and strategic partnership with public and private institutions with similar goal and vision.

§  To initiate and sustain academic programmes (certificate and professional certificate).

 

Research Capacity

Generally, the Institute possesses research competence in fish farming, rice cultivation, propagation of indigenous food crops, vegetables and local spices, farming systems, agroforestry, non-timber products and wildlife interventions. Other areas are poultry and livestock production, exploitation of underutilized animal and plant species, agricultural pests and diseases control, food processing and preservation, extension and outreach programmes, and environmental management. Thus, the IARD is the strategic agricultural research arm of the Faculty of Agriculture and, indeed, the University of Port Harcourt. In addition, the IARD scientists also serve as lecturers in the various departments of the Faculty and the University.