Campus News

Egbewole tasks SIWES students to be good ambassadors of UNILORIN

The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, has charged students embarking on their Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) globally to represent the “Better by Far” legacy of the University with integrity and diligence.

Prof. Egbewole gave the charge penultimate Friday (January 24, 2025) at the 2024/2025 SIWES Pre-placement Orientation Programme, held at the University Auditorium.

Represented at the event by the Provost, College of Health Sciences, Prof. Abiodun Suleiman Alabi, the Vice Chancellor said, “With an air of both pride and responsibility, I urge you to let your character speak volumes. Show them you are from a university that doesn’t just teach but transforms.”

The Vice Chancellor emphasised the importance of SIWES in blending theoretical knowledge with practical skills. “Work hard and return as refined students, ready to tackle the future”, he advised.

Prof. Egbewole described SIWES as a gateway for students to gain hands-on experience, preparing them for their chosen careers. He called on the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) to extend stipends to supervisors, recognising their critical role in guiding students.

In his remarks, the Director of SIWES, Prof. Rowland Kayode, advised students to be punctual, humble, respectful, and responsible at their Industrial Training (IT) placements. He noted that the University has received positive feedbacks on students’ performances in their SIWES placements.

According to Prof. Kayode, approximately 5,000 students from 13 Faculties will undergo industrial training in various parts of the country and abroad, noting that the SIWES Unit is working to secure placements in top industries in Nigeria and abroad.

The Director announced that the Unit has secured over 250 new placements, providing accommodation and a monthly stipend for students. He attributed the successful admission of students to Mrs. Victoria Madedor, Matron of the African Support Bureau for Entrepreneurship Students Club, University of Ilorin.

Prof. Kayode disclosed that currently, 70 students are acquiring practical skills in soilless farming, with 170 vacancies available for related courses. He emphasised the importance of knowledge sharing and technology transfer between the academia and industry.

He called for collaboration between the University and industry stakeholders, pointing out that the SIWES Unit is developing a sub-domain on the University Portal for online registration and other operations.

Prof. Kayode acknowledged the support of the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) and appealed to the Federal Government and ITF to release outstanding students’ allowances promptly. He appreciated the support of the University Administration and recognised the contributions of the staff of the Unit.

The Industrial Training Fund Area Manager, Dr Afeez Oluwatoyin, who was represented at the event by the Head of ITF, Mr.Onipe A. Ibrahim, commended the dedication of the University to the SIWES initiative. He acknowledged the importance of the programme in bridging the gap between theory and practice.

Dr Oluwatoyin told the students, “SIWES gives you access to equipment and tools that may not be within the University”, adding, “Use this opportunity to hone your skills and handle real-world challenges.”

He stressed the importance of institutional supervision and encouraged students to embrace innovation. “The era of job seeking is over. It’s time to create opportunities. Think outside the box and be job creators.”

In her goodwill message, the Faculty Representative of Life Sciences, Prof. Suleiman Fauziyat, encouraged the students to stay curious, build good relationships, identify their strengths, and turn their talents to wealth. “Learn, grow, and always strive for excellence”, she advised, saying, “The world is waiting for what you have to offer.”