Last Updated on February 7, 2025 by Olasunkanmi Olajide
… Begins 2-Day Capacity Building Training in FUNAAB
By Olasunkanmi Olajide & Joy Adeyiga
The Chartered Institute of Mentoring and Coaching Nigeria (CIMCN), today, February 4, 2025, during the Opening Ceremony of the 2-Day Capacity Building Training for Career Coaches and Mentors, honoured the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde with the prestigious Fellowship of the Institute and the Distinguished Icon of Leadership and Governance Award.
Themed “Career Coaching, Guidance and Mentoring Excellence: Advancing Staff Communication and Interpersonal Skills,” and organised in conjunction with the University’s Career Services and Linkages Unit (CSLU), the Vice-Chancellor during his Welcome Address urged collective efforts to empower future leaders, calling on mentors, and stakeholders to work collaboratively in nurturing the next generation of leaders.
Prof. Kehinde emphasised the pivotal role Career Services play in shaping the future of students and enhancing the success of Nigerian university education. “In today’s rapidly evolving job market, students face abundant opportunities alongside significant challenges,” he noted. “The transition from academia to the professional world can be daunting, but through our Career Services and Linkages Unit, we are dedicated to equipping our students with the necessary tools and resources to excel.”
Highlighting the University’s commitment to career readiness, Prof. Kehinde pointed to initiatives such as comprehensive career coaching, mentoring, counselling, resume writing workshops, interview preparation, and strong networks with industry professionals. “Our internships and co-op programmes bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world experience, ensuring our students apply their knowledge in practical settings,” he added.
The Vice-Chancellor also underscored the importance of industry partnerships, noting that collaborations with organisations not only provide valuable work experience for students but also help tailor academic programmes to meet current workforce demands. “By staying attuned to industry needs, we can ensure our curriculum remains relevant and our graduates are well-prepared to thrive in the workforce,” he stated.
Inclusivity was another key theme in Prof. Kehinde’s address, as he stressed the University’s commitment to supporting students from diverse backgrounds. “We believe that with the right support, every student can thrive and find their unique path in the professional world,” he said.
Expressing gratitude for the honour, Prof. Kehinde commended CIMCN for its dedication to professional mentoring and assured continued collaboration in advancing career development at FUNAAB.
While decorating the Vice-Chancellor with the paraphernalia of the award, the CIMCN Director-General, Dr. Rotimi Mathew, lauded FUNAAB’s leadership in mentoring and career development, stating that “FUNAAB has taken the lead in career coaching and mentorship, setting a standard for others to follow.”
Earlier, Head of CSLU, Dr. Mathew Oose, highlighted the significance of the Unit in tackling graduate unemployment by equipping students with global competencies, enhancing employability, and connecting them with industry leaders and alumni.
The ceremony was attended by key University officials, career coaches, and industry professionals, including the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Olukayode Akinyemi, and Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development), Prof. Kola Adebayo.
The workshop marks a significant step in FUNAAB’s ongoing efforts to bridge the gap between academia and industry, ensuring students are not only academically prepared but also equipped for successful careers.
