By Emeka Oluka & Femi Dansu
The need for a paradigm shift from traditional classroom learning to address evolving societal needs in a rapidly changing and technologically driven world has been emphasised. This emphasis was made by Prof. Emily Ayo-John, Director of the Centre for Entrepreneurial Studies (CENTS), Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) during her presentation at the 17th series of the FUNAAB Webinar.
Prof. Ayo-John, highlighted the importance of entrepreneurial skills in today’s rapidly changing world. She noted that traditional education models were no longer sufficient to prepare students for the constantly evolving global landscape.
According to her, entrepreneurship skills are crucial for adapting, innovating, and creating opportunities in today’s environment.
Defining entrepreneurship, Prof. Ayo-John described it as the capacity and willingness to develop, organise, and manage a business venture, while understanding and managing its risks to make a profit. She stressed that entrepreneurship training was essential for job creation, innovation, competitiveness, poverty reduction, empowerment, global relevance, and bridging the skills gap.
Stating the key entrepreneurial skills needed for global relevance, Prof. Ayo-John mentioned creativity, innovation, problem-solving, critical thinking, leadership, teamwork, marketing, communication, adaptability, resilience, and financial literacy as key factors.
She also discussed the importance of developing an entrepreneurial mindset through cultivating curiosity, taking risks, focusing on innovation, building a support network, and learning from failures.
She concluded the Webinar by stating that integrating entrepreneurship into education and careers, seeking mentorship, partnering with entrepreneurial organisations, and embracing innovation and creativity could enable individuals and institutions to thrive in the 21st century.
