ESTABLISHING A SUSTAINABLE BOTANIC GARDEN FOR TEACHING AND RESEARCH AT FEDERAL COLLEGE OF EDUCATION TECHNICAL, EKIADOLOR, BENIN CITY, EDO STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

The study presents the establishment of a botanic garden at the Federal College of Education Technical, Ekiadolor, Benin City, Nigeria as a living laboratory to promote environmental education, biodiversity conservation, sustainable landscaping, and hands-on learning for students and the surrounding community. A phased methodological approach involving site assessment, stakeholder consultation, infrastructure development, and plant acquisition was adopted. The garden comprised over 30 plant species organized into thematic sections including medicinal, ornamental, and indigenous plant collections to support curriculum delivery in Biology, Environmental Science and Agricultural Education. Data were collected over a period of five (5) months from six (6) lecturers and thirteen (13) students through structured observation and participation, using observation checklists to assess learning engagement. Findings revealed improved practical teaching effectiveness, enhanced student engagement, increased institutional visibility, and contributions to campus aesthetics and biodiversity conservation. Despite challenges such as maintenance demands, the project demonstrated that sustainable botanic gardens can be successfully integrated into teacher education institutions. The study recommends the adoption of botanic gardens as essential educational infrastructure in colleges of education to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.