Driving community impact for food security in Oyo State

7 October 2025

At just the primary school level, Joshua Ayankanmi, a Primary Years Programme (PYP) pupil at the IITA International School, has shown how youthful passion can spark real change. His love for agriculture and his desire to contribute to food security and sustainability in Nigeria inspired him to take on a project that has positively impacted smallholder farmers in Oyo State.

For his PYP Exhibition, Joshua chose the topic “Sustainable Agriculture and the Responsible Use of Natural Resources.” Living in a research-driven community focused on food security helped nurture his curiosity. His concern for environmental health and sustainable farming practices pushed him to dive deeper into the subject.

With guidance from his parents, teachers, and mentor, Joshua immersed himself in research. He studied reports on renewable energy in farming, visited farms powered by solar energy, collected data from local communities, and interviewed experts in engineering and renewable technologies.

Balancing schoolwork with research was not easy, but Joshua persisted. After learning the science behind sustainability, he grew vegetables in the school garden using eco-friendly methods. Together with his peers, he harvested the produce and sold it at the school gate, raising funds to support local farmers.

When the sales proceeds were not enough, Joshua reached out to the IITA community through letters, requesting donations. The response was encouraging, enabling him to purchase seeds and tools for farmers in Akinyele Local Government Area, near his school.

Supporting farmers, Building communities

Working hand in hand with the local government, Joshua identified farmers in need and supplied them with cassava stems, maize seeds, and plantain suckers. Alongside the inputs, he shared practical lessons on sustainable farming practices he had learned. His efforts not only provided material support but also helped farmers adopt techniques that reduce environmental harm.

Through this initiative, farmers began exchanging knowledge and supporting one another, creating stronger networks within the community.

Aligned with global goals

Joshua’s project connects directly to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). His work promotes:

SDG 2: Zero Hunger by improving food access and encouraging sustainable farming practices.

SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production by promoting efficient use of resources and minimizing waste.

Beyond helping others, Joshua’s journey has been one of self-discovery. He became more confident, resilient, and adaptable. He learned how to lead a team, seek support, and re-strategize when faced with obstacles. His academic skills in research, communication, and planning, grew stronger as he connected classroom learning with real-world solutions.

Joshua’s story proves that age is not a barrier to making impactful contributions. What began as a school exhibition project blossomed into a community impact initiative. His journey is a reminder that change often starts with a simple question, nurtured by determination and supported by action.

Joshua Ayankanmi’s work is not just about growing crops, it’s about growing hope, community, and a more sustainable future for all. “It has been my dream to help people, and I am glad that I have done it,” he said.

During an interview, Joshua’s PYP Coordinator, Edith Ekun, reflected on the impact of his project, describing it as a powerful reminder that young people can be agents of change. She explained that Joshua’s work not only addresses real-world problems but also inspires his peers to believe that their contributions, no matter how small, can make a meaningful difference in their communities.

His class teacher at the time, Rhoda Okorie, also shared her perspective, noting that the project shines a positive light on IITA. She emphasized that it reinforces the Institute’s reputation as an environment that nurtures young learners, equipping them with the confidence and values to grow into future leaders who are committed to solving global challenges.

Contributed by Ochuwa Favour Daramola