Last Updated on May 18, 2026 by Olasunkanmi Olajide
The Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), recently held its Stakeholders’ Meeting aimed at strengthening collaboration and improving operational efficiency among all parties involved in the programme.
Speaking at the meeting, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) and Chairman of the SIWES Board, Prof. Olusegun Idowu, stressed the importance of prompt payment to stakeholders, noting that delays often affect the smooth implementation of the Scheme.
Prof. Idowu highlighted the active involvement of various stakeholders, including students, Academic staff and industry partners, in ensuring the success of SIWES activities. He emphasised the need for transparency and accountability in the management of funds, particularly those allocated for student-related activities.
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor commended the financial management approach and leadership style of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, noting that the administration’s prudent management had distinguished the University from many other institutions.
He further called for sustained cooperation among stakeholders, while reiterating the need for adherence to laid-down conventions and standards within the University system. Prof. Idowu expressed optimism that with collective commitment and timely execution of responsibilities, the SIWES process would continue to run smoothly and efficiently.
Earlier in her remarks, the Director of SIWES, Prof. Oluwatoyin Afolabi, explained that the meeting was convened to deliberate on key issues affecting the Scheme, including stakeholder grouping and operational challenges experienced during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. She disclosed that the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) remained integral to the SIWES process.
Prof. Afolabi appreciated the commitment and support of all stakeholders, acknowledging their invaluable contributions towards the success of the Scheme.
She also reflected on the challenges encountered during the 2020 educational research session, particularly the disruptions caused by the outbreak of COVID-19. She noted that the pandemic necessitated significant changes in operational procedures, including the introduction of an online document upload system to replace the traditional binding and submission format.
The Director added that the transition to the digital process required extensive training for stakeholders to ensure effective adaptation and seamless implementation.
