...Harps on the Significance of the Nexus Between Climate Change, Agriculture and Environmental Sustainability*
By Ikenna Nwokedi
Engr. Prof. Louis Chukwuemeka Orakwe of the Department of Agricultural and Bioresources Engineering, Faculty of Engineering on Thursday, 7th August, 2025 delivered the 112th Inaugural Lecture of the University on the topic: “Climate and Technological Dynamics in Soil-Water-Plant Relationships for Food Security and Environmental Sustainability.”
The Inaugural Lecturer and Professor of Soil Conservation, Water Resources and Environmental Engineering stated that the topic is of paramount importance owing to the global challenges of climate change and food security which is crucial in ensuring that there is sufficient sustenance, preservation of the environment and comprehending the scientific aspects of the interplays between soil, water and plants.
Prof. Orakwe in highlighting the interrelationship among water, plant and soil informed that soil serves as the medium for plant growth which necessitates water and nutrients for development while plants enhance soil health and water purity through processes such as transpiration and photosynthesis.
The scholar also disclosed that the interrelationships between the three key environmental variables foster digital agriculture which utilizes data analysts, artificial intelligence, machine learning in predicting weather patterns, access to soil health issues and optimizing agricultural production.
On the aspect of sustainable technology which is beneficial to regenerative agriculture, hydroponics and vertical farming, the 112th Inaugural Lecturer affirmed that the novel principles facilities the conservation of biodiversity, mitigates soil deterioration, enhances water utilization as well as empowering producers to reduce their environmental impacts while also boosting crop yields.
Prof. Orakwe revealed that his research works led to success stories of enhanced irrigation methodologies and technologies such as mulching and drip watering which facilitate water conservation, reduction of waste and plant breeding methodologies that enhances the nutritional quality of plants and augmenting their resilience to environmental stressors.
The Inaugural Lecturer narrated his research experiences highlighting studies which examined soil structure, organic matter content, texture and other attributes pertinent to crop production and upkeep. The scholar also gave insights on water resources development and management focusing on investigating River sediment transport, water quality modeling, forecasting and irrigation systems development.
Prof. Orakwe further disclosed that his research team also contributed to climate change impact assessment applying two methodologies such as Permaculture and Agroforestry which facilities carbon sequestration in the soil. The scholar offered that his research area also contributed to optimization of agricultural productivity through optimizing agronomic practices for improved crop yields and developing more resilient crops as well as food security and environmental sustainability.
Earlier in her remarks while declaring the event open, UNIZIK Acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Carol Arinze-Umobi stated that the inaugural lecture series is a platform for Professors to showcase their research studies carried out in their chosen field.
The acting Vice-Chancellor who was represented by the Director of the Continuing Education Programme (CEP), Prof. Greg Obiamalu affirmed that University which has about 500 professors currently is making progress as can be seen with the inaugural lecture which is at the 112th series. The acting VC congratulated Prof. Orakwe for showcasing his academic prowess and contributions to learning.
Also speaking, the Chief of Staff to Anambra State Government, Chief Ernest Ezeajugi commended Prof. Orakwe for his contributions to learning though teaching and research. He stated that the Ivory tower should always be at the forefront of proffering solutions to societal challenges.
The former Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Prof. Joseph Nwabanne thanked all and sundry who came to witness the fruitful academic harvest. The scholar eulogized Prof. Orakwe for his contributions to the Engineering Profession.
Highpoints of the occasion was the decoration of the inaugural lecturer with medal of Honour by the Vice-Chancellor as well as presentation of a special gift by the Staff of the Department of Agricultural and Bioresources Engineering to Prof. Orakwe
