Dr. Enobong O. Umoh
Ag. Head of Department
Welcome Note
I heartily welcome you all to the webpage of the Department of Food Science and Technology, domiciled in the Faculty of Agriculture, Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU). The National Universities Commission (NUC) has given approval for the commencement of academic activities in the Department of Food Science and Technology at Akwa Ibom State University, with effect from 2025/2026 academic session.
The approval by the National Universities Commission followed the successful resource verification exercise conducted by panels of experts to assess the human and material resources available in the University for the establishment of the programme.
Food Science and Technology is the application of engineering, biological, and physical sciences to study the nature of foods, the causes of deterioration, the principles underlying food processing, and the improvement of foods for the consuming public. Food technology on the other hand is the application of food science to the selection, preservation, processing, packaging, distribution, and use of safe food. Related fields include analytical chemistry, biotechnology, engineering, nutrition, quality control, and food safety management. The Food Scientist helps supply this bounty by learning to apply a wide range of scientific knowledge to maintain a high quality, abundant food supply. Food Science allows us to make the best use of our food resources and minimize waste.
The underlying aims of the programme of Food Science and Technology are to achieve the goals and objectives of the National Policy on Agriculture. This is in furtherance of Nigeria’s renewed commitment for food sufficiency and general self-reliance through the turning out of graduates that are adequately equipped with the comprehensive theoretical knowledge and practical skills required for meaningful engagement in Food Science and Technology, thus, making them self- reliant and valuable to the industry and society in general.
Philosophy
The Department of Food Science and Technology is built on the commitment to produce graduates equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to transform agricultural raw materials into safe, nutritious, and high-quality food products. The programme seeks to develop individuals who can apply scientific principles, innovative technologies, and ethical practices to address national and global challenges in food production, processing, preservation, and distribution.
It emphasizes the integration of science, technology, and industry-driven competencies to prepare students for professional roles in the food sector. Through a balanced combination of theoretical instruction, practical training, and research exposure, the programme aims to nurture graduates who are capable of contributing to food security, public health, and industrial development in Nigeria and beyond.
Vision
The Department of Food Science and Technology at Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU) is to be a leading centre of excellence in Food Science and Technology, committed to advancing innovative research, nurturing highly skilled professionals, and driving sustainable solutions that enhance food quality, safety, nutrition, and industrial development for national and global impact.
Mission
The mission of the Department of Food Science and Technology is to provide high-quality education, practical training, and research opportunities that will equip students with scientific, technological, and entrepreneurial skills. The Department is committed to promoting food safety, value addition, sustainable processing, and innovation through industry collaboration, community engagement, and ethical practices that support national development and global food security.
Objective
The Department of Food Science and Technology at Akwa Ibom State University is committed to achieving the following objectives:
i. To train competent graduates with a solid foundation in the scientific and technological principles involved in food processing, preservation, quality control, and product development.
ii. To develop problem-solving and innovative skills that enable students to address challenges associated with food production, safety, and sustainability at local, national, and global levels.
iii. To equip students with practical and industrial experience through laboratory work, pilot-plant training, research projects, and industrial attachments that enhance professional readiness.
iv. To promote research and innovation in food science and technology, encouraging the development of new products, improved processing techniques, and solutions that support food security and public health.
v. To foster ethical values and professionalism, ensuring that graduates uphold quality standards, regulatory requirements, and best practices in the food and allied industries.
vi. To contribute to national development by producing skilled manpower capable of supporting agro-industrial growth, entrepreneurship, and value addition to Nigeria’s agricultural resources.
At the moment, the Department of Food Science and Technology at Akwa Ibom State University is offering a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) undergraduate programme. The duration of the undergraduate academic programme is five (5) years, for UTME candidates, and four (4) years for Direct Entry candidates.
a.) Admission through JAMB and Post UTME
i. Admission into Akwa Ibom State University shall be through Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examinations (UTME) conducted by the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) OR Direct Entry. In addition to attaining, the general required standard in UTME, candidates must satisfy the general university requirement as well as the specific Faculty and Programs requirement. All Admissions shall be through JAMB.
ii. The candidate must be over 16 years of age by 1st October in the year of admission.
iii. Candidates must possess at least 5 credit passes in relevant subjects ( English language, Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics, Biology or Agricultural Science) at GCE O/L, WASCE, SSCE, NECO or approved equivalents at not more than 2 sittings.
iv. Subjects to be offered at the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) should include English Language, Mathematic, Chemistry and Biology
iv. Satisfactory performance in the UTME.
v. Satisfactory performance in the Post-UTME screening exercise conducted by the University.
b.) Admission by Direct Entry
Applicants seeking admission into 200 level of the programme at Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU) should possess in addition to the SSC requirements for UTME as stated above,
i. National Diploma (ND) in Food Science and Technology with a minimum of not below Lower Credit or its equivalent from a recognized institution; or
ii. Advanced Level credit pass in any two of Chemistry, Physics or Mathematics and Biology or Agricultural Science.
i. A pass in general paper at HSC or approved equivalents would not be accepted as a substitute for a credit pass in English Language at GCE O/L, WASCE, SSCE, NECO or approved equivalents.
ii. Interviews may be conducted as a component of the admission process in addition to UTME or Direct Entry by JAMB.
Candidates with adequate qualifications who wish to transfer from other universities to the Department of Food Science and Technology shall be admitted into either Year I or Year II depending on their qualifications and Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) as approved by the University. Such candidates must submit an official transcript from their former Universities.
As of now, the department of Food Science and Technology does not offer postgraduate programmes. However, as the department grows, the postgraduate programmes will come up full stream.
The Department of Food Science and Technology has standard facilities like the e-library, ICT laboratory, engineering workshop, pilot scale food processing plant, studios, etc that could aid experiential learning at Akwa Ibom State University. Also, the department has:
Research & Training Classroom
Audio-visual facilities
Whiteboards/projectors
Demonstration tools
Library/Resource Centre
Textbooks, journals, theses, manuals
Digital research access
Office & Administrative Facilities
HOD office
Staff offices
Meeting rooms
Graduates of Food Science and Technology have a wide range of career opportunities in both the public and private sectors.
They can work in food processing and manufacturing companies, ensuring the production of safe, high-quality, and nutritious food products.
Opportunities also exist in quality control, food safety, and regulatory agencies where graduates monitor compliance with national and international food standards.
Additionally, graduates can engage in research and development, product formulation, and food innovation in academic institutions, research centers, or the food industry.
Other career paths include entrepreneurship in food production and value addition, consultancy services, food marketing, and supply chain management.
Graduates of Food Science and Technology may also work in sectors such as public health, nutrition, and environmental management, contributing to food security and sustainable development.
The Department of Food Science and Technology at Akwa Ibom State University has qualified/experienced members of staff, including academic, administrative and technical staff. This is to guarantee effective learning and proper training of the students, and also ensure efficient and effective administration of the department.
🔸 Dr. Enobong O. Umoh (Ag. HOD)
🔸 Prof. Aniekpeno I. Elijah
🔸 Dr. Anne P. Edimah-Nya
🔸 Engr. Dr. Promise. J. Etim
🔸 Engr. Dr. Inemesit E. Ekop
🔸 Dr. Iniobong E. Udoh
🔸 Dr. Victor E. Ntukidem
🔸 Mrs. Margaret O. Bassey
🔸 Mr. Utibe Usendu
🔸 Mrs. Consola W. Okonah
🔸 Mr. Emmanuel C. Essien
🔸 Mrs. Nse O. Akpan
🔸 Mrs. Comfort O. Jack