The Area Manager, Industrial Training Fund, Akure Area office, Mr. Oladimeji Gabriel has called on students of the Federal University of Technology, Akure proceeding on Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme, SIWES to strive to acquire skills that will give them edge over their counterparts in the labour market. He made the appeal while addressing them during the orientation programme for the 2021-2022 session organized for them at the Obafemi Awolowo auditorium of the institution. Oladimeji emphasized the importance of skill acquisition and methods of work that are not available in the curricula of the various institutions.
Oladimeji, a seasoned officer and veteran in industrial training matters urged the students to comport themselves decently when they resume at their various places of work. He asked them to obey rules and regulations as well as observing the safety measure in which ever organization they find themselves. He further said no student who has a skill added to his or her discipline can ever go hungry. Oladimeji appreciated the Management and staff of the University for its support towards effective functioning of the SIWES unit and SIWES activities.
In an address delivered earlier the Vice Chancellor, Professor Adenike Oladiji represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Development), Professor Sunday Oluyamo said that the orientation programme is a very important annual ceremony designed to sensitize prospective trainees on their upcoming Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES). She added that the programme is very important as it provides a veritable platform for interactions, exchange of ideas and discussions on SIWES related issues. Professor Oladiji said commended the Industrial Trust Fund officers in the Akure Area Office on their cooperation and contribution towards the success of the annual programme. Speaking relatedly the Assistant Chief Industrial Training Officer, FUTA Mr. Josiah Oluwalaanu said SIWES orientation is a program of the University organized by the Industrial Training Unit in partnership with ITF Akure area office to enlighten and educate intending I.T students before they are allowed to proceed on I.T in Industries and establishments relevant to their course of study within the country for a mandatory period of 6 months. He said FUTA has been recognized by the various Industries and organizations in the country as a university that constantly sends out crop of students who are disciplined, dedicated to work and eager to learn.
In a short remark the Dean, Student Affairs Division, Professor Olarenwaju Oke represented by Senior Assistant Registrar, Funmilayo Afolayan said SIWES was introduced in Nigeria in 1973 to enable Undergraduates in Science and Engineering acquire practical skills needed to function satisfactorily in work settings. Professor Oke said the philosophy and mandate of FUTA is to produce practical oriented graduates. He charged the students to seize the opportunity as SIWES enables the students to engage in the application of scientific knowledge to solve specific problems in the society. “SIWES helps students to update and master their skills, students are exposed to and made aware of new concept and latest technology” he said.
