South Carolina State University’s Institute of Business, Environment, Communications and Transportation has officially opened its new BECT Education and Research Greenhouse, marking a significant step towards enriching educational opportunities in STEM fields. The greenhouse will serve as a hub for research and experimentation, providing a space where students can directly engage with plant biology, environmental science, and agribusiness concepts.
“Greenhouse education is an excellent way to increase STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) education and get student exposure to potential agricultural, agribusiness, and environmental career paths,” said Dr. Barbara Adams, director of the BECT Institute. “Thus, the greenhouse will be used to grow, teach lessons and conduct research in environmental science and agribusiness as well as become a marketplace for students to apply entrepreneurial skills in growing and selling plants and vegetables.”
The greenhouse, equipped with Controlled-Environment Agriculture technologies, will allow students to experience commercial plant production through hydroponics and vertical growing systems. This interactive lab will also document processes and findings through a series of videos and informative articles.
Already Enhancing Learning
On Nov. 21, the BECT Institute held an open house to showcase the greenhouse’s capabilities and highlight ongoing projects led by faculty and students. Dr. Florence Anoruo, a plant and environmental scientist, shared how she incorporates the greenhouse into her plant physiology lab projects. Additionally, Dr. Brandon Huber, a research scientist and extension associate for SC State 1890 Research & Extension, is leveraging the greenhouse for hydroponic research. Students from the Environment Club actively experiment with plant cultivation and microgreens.
The establishment of the greenhouse was made possible through a grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, with Dr. Adams serving as the principal investigator. She expressed her excitement about the long-awaited facility: “It has taken several years to get the greenhouse on campus, but I’m happy we are finally able to provide this opportunity for faculty and students to learn and engage in research in plant physiology and provide a marketplace to apply entrepreneurial skills.”
Faculty and students can use various propagation techniques, including cuttings, transplants, and seeds. Activities and internship opportunities are set for the Spring 2025 Semester, promoting active participation in agribusiness initiatives.
The greenhouse is between SC State’s ROTC building and the old Police Station. Operating hours will be announced soon.