By – Victor Ogunyemi

The University of Ibadan Health Service (UHS) Fruits and Veggies Palace on Monday, July 1 2024, opened an outlet for organic products under the “Go Organic, Live Healthy” project for members of the University community and its environs.

The project was facilitated by the Environmental Conflict Mediation and Women Development Initiative (ECOMAWDI).

The Director of the University Health Service, Dr. Aderonke Ajav said the opening of the outlet was ‘a great landmark in the achievements of the University Health Service’.

In her explanation, the Director noted that the opening of the UHS organic market as a space was meant to create healthy living awareness and enhance good health within the University community.

Dr Ajav noted that through ECOMAWDI, the University Health Service was able to connect with the Organic Agriculture Practitioners of Nigeria for first-hand organic farm produce.

“The sale of organic vegetables and fruits would be extended to halls of residence where students could buy at affordable prices and eat healthy” Dr. Ajav said.

Speaking, the Executive Director of the Environmental Conflict Mediation and Women Development Initiative (ECOMAWDI) Mrs. Ijeoma B. Ladele highlighted that the “Go Organic, Live Healthy” Project was sponsored and supported by the University Health Service (UHS), Women Environmental Programme (WEP), and Women Engage for Common Future (WECF).

Appreciating the Director of the University Health Service for her passion and contribution to the consumption of organic produce in UI, Mrs. Ijeoma stressed that ECOMAWDI seeks to increase the level of consumption of organic farm produce by all members of the University community and beyond through enlightenment campaigns and the creation of space for the sale of organic products.

Also, the Financial Secretary, Organic Agriculture Practitioners of Nigeria and Chairman of Ajibode Branch, Chief Salimonu Moshoodi Oladepo appreciated the Director of UHS and the Executive Director of ECOMAWDI for their relentless efforts and support in ensuring that organic products are easily accessible to consumers and ensuring that farmers do not run at a loss.

The Environmental Conflict Mediation and Women Development Initiative (ECOMAWDI) later presented an award of recognition to Dr. Aderonke B. Ajav for her efforts at ensuring wellness for all members of the University community.

It also presented a table, a chair, and a measurement scale to the University Health Service, Jaja Clinic, for use in the organic produce sales outlet.

Credit – Directorate of Public Communication