The Kwara Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (KWACReSAL), in partnership with the State Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, has launched the distribution and planting of tree-crop seedlings in selected schools across Kwara State.

The initiative, officially flagged off in Ilorin, aims to strengthen agricultural education, promote environmental sustainability, and create income-generating opportunities for participating schools.

According to a statement issued on Monday by KWACReSAL Communication Officer Okanlawon Taiwo, the project will see the establishment of orchards within school premises, where students can gain hands-on experience in crop cultivation and product development, as well as support practical research.

The State Commissioner for Planning and Economic Development, Dr. Mary Arinde, commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his strong commitment to food security and for supporting the initiative, which aligns with broader climate resilience goals.

"The Kwara State Governor, through the ACReSAL project, has graciously approved the planting and distribution of 14,180 economic trees in selected primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions across the state," she said.

Arinde noted that the seedlings, which include cocoa, cashew, oil palm and orange, would serve as windbreakers, provide aesthetic value for beautification, and generate revenue for schools.

She urged school heads to ensure accountability and also encourage tree planting in their homes and communities.

In his goodwill message, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr Afees Alabi, said the initiative would help balance the ecosystem, instil conservation and sustainability in younger generations, and provide practical knowledge of tree planting.

The Commissioner for Education, Dr Lawal Olohungbebe, added that the project would give students first-hand practical knowledge while protecting schools and their assets.

He assured that his ministry would set up a monitoring team to supervise the tree growth and development.

The State Project Coordinator of ACReSAL, Alhaji Shamsideen Aregbe, said the campaign would boost food security, empower young people, and promote environmental sustainability.

"Through this initiative, we aim to instil a love for nature, promote eco-friendly practices, and foster a sense of responsibility among students.

"On our part in ACReSAL, this effort embodies our commitment to nurturing the next generation's love for nature, sustainability, and mitigation of the adverse effects of climate change and environmental stewardship.

"As these seedlings grow, so will the values of responsibility, conservation, and community service among our young people," he said.

The event featured presentations of seedlings to school heads, a talk on tree planting, and a question-and-answer session.

It was attended by directors of relevant ministries, local government representatives, school heads, and the Kwara ACReSAL team.