The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, has reiterated his commitment to ensuring that graduates of the institution are fully equipped to thrive in the 21st century.
Speaking at an Orientation Programme for students participating in the Unilorin Innovative Skills and Pioneering Entrepreneurship (U-INSPIRE) at the University Auditorium last Wednesday (January 16, 2025), Prof. Egbewole stressed the importance of acquiring not only academic knowledge but also essential life skills necessary for success in today’s rapidly evolving world.
The Vice Chancellor, who spoke through the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research, Technology and Innovation), Prof. Adegboyega Adisa Fawole, expressed concern over the widening gap between academic qualifications and the practical skills required by modern employers.
Prof. Egbewole lamented that many graduates, despite holding degree certificates, lack the crucial skills that would enable them to stand on their own and succeed in the global workforce. He added that the world no longer values what one possesses, but rather, what one can do with those skills.
He encouraged the students to actively participate in the orientation programme, urging them to absorb all the knowledge and insights that would be shared throughout the session. He said that the skills and tools provided during the programme would help shape them into well-rounded professionals who can make significant contributions to the society.
The Vice Chancellor assured the students that their involvement in the U-INSPIRE programme would be a transformative experience that would prove invaluable as they embark on their professional journeys.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Director of U-INSPIRE, Prof. Rasheed Jimoh, explained the significant value that the programme would add to the academic journey of the students.
He informed the students that those who successfully complete the programme will graduate with the U-INSPIRE certificate in addition to their degree certificate, saying that this is a distinction that will set them apart in the competitive job market.
Describing the programme as a vision of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, Prof. Jimoh stated that the initiative was conceived to provide graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the fast-changing, technology-driven world. He said, “The U-INSPIRE programme aims to make students more innovative and equip them with practical skills that will help them succeed in the emerging economy, which increasingly demands adaptability, digital literacy, and entrepreneurship”.
Prof. Jimoh said, “The programme, which was launched in October 2024, was established with the directive that the first batch of graduates that benefit from the scheme would be recognised during the next convocation ceremonies of the University.
He congratulated the students on being the fortunate pioneers of this transformative initiative, adding that they have a unique opportunity to gain skills that would set them apart in their future careers.
Also speaking, the President of the University Student Union, Victor Oghenetega Agezeh, appreciated the University Administration, on behalf of his colleagues, especially the final-year students, for the initiative aimed at empowering them.
Agezeh noted that the initiative reflects the commitment of the Vice-Chancellor to producing graduates with certificates and equipping them with the skills to stand on their own, defend their qualifications, and earn a living.
He said, “We are grateful that this initiative is being implemented during our time. We thank the Vice-Chancellor for his unwavering efforts in actualising his Smart Vision 1:10:500. This Vision is attainable when we have graduates equipped with the requisite skills to be independent and contribute meaningfully to the betterment of the global community.”
