In this Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) spotlight, Rasheed Lawal shares his experiences as our KTP associate for our African Agricultural KTP (AAKTP) with Obafemi Awolowo University and Taro Agric Farm.
An AAKTP is a four-way collaboration between a university in the UK, a university in Nigeria, a business and a recent graduate, known as the associate. The AA KTP aims to solve a particular challenge or problem which will help an agricultural business innovate and grow.
Our African Agricultural KTP with Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) and Taro Agric Farm looks at the application of data-enabled innovations to commercial chicken production in Nigeria:
My family are in the poultry business, and I did my undergraduate thesis on analysing livestock data to view trends and generate insights. The opportunity to develop my career further, and learn more about Data Science & Analytics and implement that into the livestock industry attracted me to the role.
The role excites me as I’m keen to know about leveraging IoT devices and data analytics to monitor and optimize various aspects of chicken farming including environmental conditions, feed and water consumption, health conditions, enhancing growth rates, feed efficiency, promoting animal welfare and overall profitability for poultry farmers in Nigeria. Whilst also undertaking knowledge-sharing activities, such as seminars and training sessions, to disseminate best practices and build capacity among stakeholders in the production value chain.
The partnership between UWE, OAU and Taro Agric involves a collaborative effort to conduct research aimed at enhancing broiler productivity and chicken welfare in Nigeria through data-enabled innovations and IoT applications. UWE provides expertise in data analytics and the possibility of IoT technologies, while OAU and Taro Agric contribute industry knowledge, resources, agricultural research, and on-the-ground implementation support. The Innovate UK funding has allowed for the acquisition of necessary infrastructures, data collection tools and personnel to support research activities, as well as capacity building and skill development which will contribute to the sustainability and long-term impact of the project. So, I can say that the partnership is working well so far!
So far there are numerous benefits of the project:
The valuable hands-on experience in implementing data-enabled innovations and IoT applications in broiler production, which enhances
- Skill sets and prepares one for future roles in agricultural technology and related fields.
- The exposure to an interdisciplinary learning approach that combines expertise in data analytics, IoT technologies and livestock.
- The project provides opportunities for professional development and capacity building, including training in data analytics tools, IoT device integration, project management and communication skills which are transferable and valuable for career advancements in various sectors.
- Networking opportunities, contribution to impactful research, and exposure to global challenges and opportunities facing the livestock sector.
I am really enjoying working on the project so far. Some highlights and achievements include:
- Being part of a project that explores innovative solutions in the broiler industry through technology.
- Working alongside a diverse team of collaborators where ideas are shared and expertise is leveraged to achieve common goals.
- Opportunities for learning and personal growth including capacity building/development.
- Problem-solving and contributing positively to the welfare, sustainability and productivity of broiler production in the industry.
- Networking opportunities and access to industry contacts, conferences and events.
I appreciate the extensive expertise and resources that UWE brings to the project, particularly in the areas of data analytics and IoT technologies, as well as the industry insight and practical support by OAU and Taro Agric; the open communication, mutual respect and willingness to work together towards a common goal, the financial and logistical support from everyone including funding for equipment, travel expenses and fieldwork activities which demonstrates a strong commitment to the success of the project.
