The Department of Animal Science started as one of the programmes in the General Agriculture Degree Programme awarded by the university of Ife now Obafemi Awolowo University, Faculty of Agriculture in 1962. The department was formerly established in 1966/1967 session. The faculty of Agriculture operated as unified degree Programme from 1962-1977 in which every department made a contribution toward undergraduate training. thereafter, with the introduction of the Bachelor of Agriculture (B. Agric) degree Programme, the department graduated its first set of 9 graduates of B. Agric (Animal Science) in 1981.

However, the main objectives of the department are to meet the manpower needs and provide knowledge-based solution to the problems of the agricultural sub-sector and the society at large.

There is a great opportunity for you to be an animal Scientist. Your knowledge/ expertise is required wherever there is life.

MISSION STATEMENT

A Centre of Excellence for the training of high caliber personnel, entrusted with knowledge of animal production as a tool for food security, income generation, gainful employment, and the provision for high quality and wholesome animal products and services for the benefits of mankind.

OBJECTIVES

The specific objectives of the department include:

1. To prepare young professionals for careers in Animal Science and to instill in them, life-long habits of dedication, leadership, innovation and service.

2. To conduct strategic research (basic and applied) in Animal Science so as to meet the national Challenge of food security and improved welfare.

3. To help to develop national livestock policies that will foster a sustainable, environment-friendly and prosperous agricultural sector and national economic development.

4. To create public awareness of development in the agriculture and food industry vis-à-vis quality and safety of animal products.

5. To assist with rural development through direct collaboration with smallholder livestock units so as to promote employment, income generation and development of skills.