By Emeka Oluka & Femi Dansu
The Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES), of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), on Tuesday, April 30, 2024, held an Orientation Programme for Batch B Non-Agricultural Students in the Departments of Environmental Management and Toxicology (EMT), as well as Water Resources Management and Agrometeorology (WRM) at the Oba Lipede Multipurpose Building.
Addressing the students at the Programme, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde urged the students to recognise the privilege of university education, emphasising the sacrifices of their parents and guardians.
Represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic, Prof. Olukayode Akinyemi, the Vice-Chancellor said that education was a gift not afforded to all, charging the students to seize the opportunity to excel in their academic pursuits.
Wearing another cap as the Chairman, SIWES Committee, Prof. Akinyemi stressed the importance of the SIWES programme in equipping undergraduates with essential industrial skills.
He outlined the objectives of the scheme, including providing practical exposure, preparing students for the workforce, and facilitating smoother transitions from academia to industry.
Prof. Akinyemi urged students to approach the SIWES Programme with dedication, reminding them of its significance in their academic journey.
He stressed the need for adherence to organisational rules and regulations during the six-month programme.
In his address, the Director, SIWES, Prof. Adeolu Akinyemi, underscored the Programme’s role in bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.
He commended the University Management and the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) for their support, highlighting SIWES as integral to producing well-rounded graduates equipped for the demands of the workforce.
Prof. Akinyemi detailed the objectives of SIWES, stressing its role in providing hands-on experience, preparing students for real-world scenarios, and fostering collaboration between academia and industry.
In her submission, the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) Area Manager, who was represented by the Head of Training, Mrs. Oluwatosin Akinbola discussed stakeholder roles and responsibilities in the SIWES Programme, stressing the importance of completing logbooks and relevant forms to maximise the benefits of the programme.
The Dean, Student Affairs, Prof. Festus Adeosun, represented by the Deputy Dean, Prof. Oluseyi Ojekunle enlightened the students on the expectations of a genuine FUNAAB ambassador, instilling a sense of responsibility and pride in representing the University.
The event saw the participation of key stakeholders, including SIWES staff and representatives from FUNAAB and ITF, underscoring the collaborative effort to prepare students for a successful career beyond academia.
