The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has reinforced its drive to produce career-ready graduates with the hosting of its maiden Workplace Preparedness Interactive Forum, aimed at equipping students with practical skills for life beyond the classroom. The event, held on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at the Tayo Aderinokun Hall, Akoka Campus, attracted a large turnout of students, especially those in their final year within the Faculty of Management Sciences.
Organised by the University’s Office of Advancement, the forum focused on bridging the gap between academic training and real-world career demands. Through interactive sessions, students were exposed to professional, entrepreneurial and leadership opportunities embedded in their courses, while also being guided on mindset, values and work ethics required to succeed in today’s competitive labour market. The programme further highlighted UNILAG’s growing emphasis on alumni engagement as a tool for mentorship and institutional growth.
Two prominent UNILAG alumni, Mr. Segun Odusanya, Managing Director of First Securities Discount House (FSDH), and Dr. Samuel Ogbodu, Managing Director/CEO of Sunu Assurances Limited, delivered keynote sessions that blended personal career journeys with practical workplace lessons. Mr. Odusanya shared how early academic struggles shaped his discipline and focus, stressing the importance of integrity, teamwork and multicultural awareness in building a sustainable career. He also announced the endowment of a prize for the Best Graduating Student in the Department of Business Administration, underscoring his commitment to giving back to the university.
Dr. Ogbodu, on his part, emphasised the power of relationships, mentorship and credibility, noting that networks built as a student often translate into career-defining opportunities later in life. He encouraged students to understand organisational culture, develop resilience and nurture business ideas early, adding that many graduates are positioned not only to seek jobs, but to create them. He concluded by announcing an endowment for the Department of Actuarial Sciences and Insurance, drawing applause from participants.
Speaking through the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development Services), Professor Afolabi Lesi, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, commended the Office of Advancement for driving innovative alumni-focused initiatives. She urged students to maximise the mentorship opportunity, noting that the insights shared would remain valuable long after graduation. With the successful launch of the Workplace Preparedness Forum, UNILAG reaffirmed its commitment to producing graduates equipped to lead, innovate and excel in the modern workplace.
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