Government at all levels has been challenged to show more interest in research methodology by allocating more funds to mycological researchers, saying the move will enable them to showcase their findings on fungi.
A Professor of Microbiology, at the department of Biological Science, Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology (OAUSTECH) Okitipupa, Prof Soji Fakoya, gave the advice on Thursday, while delivery the 7th inaugural lecture of the University.
Fakoya who is also the Dean of the department of Biological Science in the University, specially tasked Ondo State Government on the needs to establish a world-class state-of-the-art mushrooms house in the Southern Senatorial District of the State, specifically at OAUSTECH, Okitipupa, saying the initiative will further support the cultivation of edible and medicinal mushrooms, boost intellectual advancement and enhancing research in the field.
Speaking on a lecture entitled: “Mycological Marvels: Unlocking the Much-Rooms in the World of Mushrooms, the Ilara-Mokin-borned University Don, described mushrooms as an indispensable allies in addressing contemporary challenges that has ability to transform organic waste into valuable resources.
Underscoring the importance of mycological research, Professor Fakoya, noted that fostering research and innovation in the utilization of edible fungi would undoubtedly lead to substantial advancement in the health industry and ecological balance.
Describing mushrooms as a nutritional fungi, the University Don, explained that consumption of edible mushrooms and their derivation by individuals of all ages, contribute to the achievement of strategic Sustainable Development Goals (SDG)
The Senior Lecturer stressed the needs for more public awareness on consumption of edible mushrooms, noted that apart from been nutritional, healthy, it’s also has industrial significance.
He suggested the needs for strong collaborative efforts and partnership between scholars in higher institutions of learning and other stakeholders as well as policy makers in industries for more research development on mycological research, stating that by doing so, there will be an improvement in the fungal products and contribute more to the national development.
Prof. Fakoya who also emphasised the needs for government to ensure a reliable power supply as crucial for sustainable research at all levels across the nation, he advised relevant stakeholders to venture deeper into the mycological realm and a catalyst for embracing the boundless opportunities that mushrooms present, where endless possibilities await.
He equally called on the people to nurture the fascinating field and cultivate what he called future enriched marvels of mushrooms.
In his address at the ocassion, the Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Temi Ologunorisa, described the 7th inaugural lecture as another landmark event in the history of the University.
While congratulating Professor Fakoya over the achievement, described him as an orator, the University helmsman advised intellectuals on goal settings in their effort at producing good thesis, harped on the need for intellectuals to put in extra effort by
prioritizing their goals and exhibit originality in their work.
The event held at the University auditorium at the main campus of the institution along Igbokoda road in Okitipupa was attended by principal officers of the University, staff, lecturers from various universities within and outside the State, students, friends, family and kinsmen of the inaugural lecturer among others.