About 150 children and volunteers have completed training at the Kids Nutri-Garden Vacation School (KNGVS), a garden-based learning programme of the University of Ibadan designed to promote safe planting and healthy living.
The one-month initiative, organised by the Department of Human Nutrition and Dietetics, introduced participants to hands-on activities including fish gardening, nutri-fitness, cookery, and vegetable cultivation.
At the colourful end-of-training exhibition, the children proudly showcased varieties of vegetables harvested from their garden plots, alongside their newly acquired culinary skills.
Two participants, Rodiyah Awodoyin and Morire Majekodunmi, described the experience as both exciting and educational, noting that the programme had equipped them with life skills that would support healthy living.
A KNGVS volunteer, Linda Udele, said the programme has equipped her with life skills that will boost her future tasks, promising to disciple more kids on the home garden method of growing natural foods as well as start up a business venture in the value chain.
A parent, Dr. Yemisi Adeolu, who also testified to the impact of the programme, explained that her family’s dietary system had improved since her children joined the programme, adding that the vacation school also enhanced social networking and practical skill-building for the kids.
Speaking, the programme coordinator and Head of Department, Human Nutrition and Dietetics, University of Ibadan, Dr. Shirley Isi-Ejoh, revealed that the KNGVS has trained over 3,000 children in its nine years of existence, expressing optimism that this new set of trainees would further champion the cause of healthy eating and sustainable food practices across Nigeria.
Isi-Ejoh also cautioned against over-reliance on chemically processed foods and urged policymakers to integrate gardening into school curricula, saying engaging children in the food production chain will not only build healthier lifestyles but also strengthen national food security.
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