The President/Vice Chancellor of Babcock University, Afolarin Olutunde Ojewole, has underscored the critical role of industrial training in higher education, describing the Students’ Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) as a vital link between classroom learning and practical workplace experience.
Speaking at the Second Quarter Zonal Supervisory Meeting of SIWES-participating institutions in Ogun State, Professor Ojewole said the scheme remains essential for equipping students with relevant industry skills, improving their employability, and preparing them to contribute meaningfully to national development.
The Vice Chancellor’s address was delivered on his behalf by Oludele Awodele, Associate Vice President, Academic Planning.
“In today’s competitive global economy, no academic programme is complete without structured industrial exposure,” Professor Ojewole stated.
He noted that Babcock University has continued to strengthen its industrial training programme through strategic partnerships with reputable organisations, improved student placement processes, and comprehensive pre-deployment preparation.
According to him, the university has also invested in pre-internship training, mentorship programmes, and monitoring mechanisms designed to ensure students gain maximum value from their industrial attachments.
Professor Ojewole challenged SIWES Directors and Coordinators to remain committed to maintaining high standards in the administration of the scheme.
“The credibility of SIWES depends largely on effective supervision, proper documentation, timely evaluation, and strict adherence to operational guidelines. We must collectively ensure that students are placed in relevant organisations where meaningful learning can take place, rather than mere fulfilment of requirements,” he said.
The Vice Chancellor also commended the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) for its sustained support and regulatory oversight of the programme.
“Your efforts in providing policy direction, training support, and institutional coordination have remained invaluable to the success of industrial training in Nigeria. We acknowledge your commitment and partnership in strengthening graduate employability,” he added.
He further urged participants to ensure that deliberations at the meeting translate into improved learning experiences for students and stronger collaboration between academic institutions and industry stakeholders.
Earlier, Jonathan Nwosu, Senior Vice President, Academic Administration, welcomed participants and expressed appreciation to the ITF for creating opportunities that expose students to professional environments and prepare them for the demands of the labour market.
“Babcock is committing everything to ensure that there are no gaps in meeting the requirements necessary to provide our students with the best possible industrial training experience,” he said.
In her response, Bolanle, Area Manager of the ITF in Ogun State, expressed appreciation to Babcock University for hosting the meeting.
“We are delighted to be here this morning and appreciate the effort this institution is making to establish a standard of excellence for the SIWES programme,” she said.
Mrs. Bolanle explained that the coordinators’ meeting provides a platform for higher institutions across Ogun State to review challenges affecting the scheme, develop strategies, and identify practical solutions aimed at improving its effectiveness.
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