Faculty of Agricultural Sciences - Department of Pesticides and toxicology

Vision:

The Department of Pesticides and Toxicology strives to acquire the necessary resources and advanced technologies to serve Sudanese society and humanity. This is achieved through its role in fostering rigorous scientific development and upholding high academic traditions within the college, thus reinforcing the university’s prestige as a beacon and role model for society. The department also aims to play a vital role in developing plans for the optimal use of pesticides in Sudan and in modernizing pest management methods by adopting applied scientific research as a means to raise the economic standard of the community. Cultivating ambition, perseverance, and creativity in graduates, and preparing them to overcome competition and challenges in both the scientific and production fields, requires that the pursuit of knowledge, modernization, and development become a way of life. The Department of Pesticides and Toxicology focuses on studying all aspects of pesticides, from both chemical and toxicological perspectives, and the various subfields that stem from these areas. The department’s focus is on the chemistry and application of insecticides, fungicides, herbicides, nematicides, and rodenticides, including their toxicity, the problems they cause, and optimal solutions. It also encompasses the study of general, systemic, and applied toxicology, as well as biotechnology, organic, physical, and analytical chemistry, separation methods, environmental toxicology and pollution, poisoning and safety procedures, and entomology. The Pesticides and Toxicology Department has research interests closely tied to applied aspects such as pesticide resistance, pesticide behavior in the environment, and pesticide side effects. Furthermore, the department plays a leading role in research on modern pest control trends, such as the use of plant- and microbial-derived pesticides. It also conducts studies on food and environmental pollutants and toxins, industrial waste and its environmental impacts, and the identification and isolation of plants containing active compounds against insects, mites, and plant pathogens. The department collaborates with numerous local and international research institutions to conduct research projects that contribute to solving many environmental problems and promoting the optimal handling of pesticides, in addition to keeping abreast of the latest developments and trends in pest control methods. Since its establishment, the department has made significant strides towards progress and development despite limited resources, primarily through the continuous training and professional development of its teaching staff. The number of faculty members has grown from four in the year of its founding to eight today. The number of graduates has also increased year after year, from 21 in 2000 to over 150 by the academic year 2011. A key step for the department was the introduction of postgraduate programs, beginning with Master’s and Doctoral programs in the academic year 2001, specializing in Pesticides and Toxicology.

 Mission:

1- To implement modern global educational systems to prepare a generation capable of solving all problems related to pesticides and toxicology, as well as conducting scientific studies and research that will raise the scientific and applied level of specialists in the field of pesticides and toxicology.

2- To prepare and develop plans, take measures, and provide the necessary resources to cultivate expertise in pesticide management for the pesticide handling stage and to develop learning in all its aspects in cooperation with university colleges and relevant institutions and organizations.

3- To prepare graduates to meet the needs of the current and future market, as agriculture now relies on biotechnology and tissue engineering. Therefore, it is essential to begin applying these technological advancements to graduates so that the job market will readily accept them. 4. To prepare graduates qualified in the optimal methods of pesticide application, capable of handling machinery and technology, solving problems arising from pesticide application, managing greenhouses and modern agriculture, and controlling pests using appropriate chemical methods while avoiding the harmful effects of pesticides. The coming years will witness a growing need for graduates from the Pesticides and Toxicology Department, aligning with the agricultural development in the country, which requires high-quality graduates in pesticides and toxicology in general, and from agricultural colleges in particular.

5. To hold specialized conferences, seminars, and workshops to develop the fields of pesticides and toxicology and university education, and to contribute to enriching scientific research in crop protection and environmental conservation in all its branches.

6. To update the study systems and programs in the Pesticides and Toxicology Department in light of scientific trends and national needs, thereby raising the performance level of the department and providing a model for other institutions in higher education. 7. The department works to provide outstanding opportunities for education and learning in various fields of pesticides at all levels, according to high academic standards, for those interested from the Sudanese, regional, Arab, and other communities. This aims to qualify them to contribute to economic and social development. The department also works on the continuous development of knowledge through rigorous and systematic scientific research.

8. The department contributes to the development of Sudanese society by providing scientific solutions to its problems and technical and organizational consultations to improve performance in its various institutions. This includes disseminating knowledge and enlightening the surrounding community through cultural and social activities and raising awareness of environmental conservation.

Objectives:

– To equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become proficient in the field of pesticides, capable of creating a healthy environment for pesticide application on crops, and to spread awareness of academic standards and criteria related to pesticides, thus serving the community.

– To enable students to utilize scientific thinking skills, the ability to plan and solve problems related to pesticides and toxicology, and to make decisions in daily work through activities. The department also focuses on promoting adherence to professional ethics, societal values, and ethical principles.