In a proactive step toward enhancing public university administration across Africa, the University of Lagos (UNILAG) has launched an intensive training program for newly appointed administrative staff. Spearheaded by the Staff Training and Development Unit (ST&DU), the two-day training aims to equip recently converted administrative personnel with essential skills and insights for their new roles. With a theme of “New Role, New You: Acquiring Relevant Knowledge, Skills, and Attitude for New Job Roles,” the program underscores the university’s commitment to continuous learning and professional development.
At the opening ceremony, Mrs. Aderonke Asiwaju, Director of ST&DU, emphasized the importance of the initiative. “This training is designed to hone skills, deepen understanding of university administration, and instill the values and standards that define our institutional culture,” she said. Mrs. Asiwaju highlighted that capacity-building efforts like these are essential in the African higher education sector to achieve excellence in service delivery and career fulfillment among staff.
The event, held at the ST&DU headquarters, brought together trainers and administrators dedicated to ensuring smooth transitions for staff moving from executive, media, and security roles to administration. Acting Registrar of the University, Mrs. Olakunle Makinde, who was represented by Mr. Michael Uwakwe, urged the newly appointed administrators to embrace their roles with a commitment to professionalism and integrity. “As administrators, you are now custodians of our mission and values,” she advised. “This new position calls for a strong character, managerial skills, and alignment with the university’s strategic goals.”
Day One of the program featured lectures designed to address core competencies in university administration. Professor Grace Otinwa, former Director of Quality Assurance and SERVICOM at UNILAG, delivered a session titled “Elevating Service Delivery through Customer Orientation,” underscoring the role of administrators in fostering a culture of responsive and student-centered service.
Other sessions included “Roles and Responsibilities of Administrators” by Acting Registrar Mrs. Makinde, “Professional Writing Skills for Administrators” by Mrs. Abosede Wickliffe, Deputy Registrar and Acting Director of Academic Affairs, and “Planning and Managing Meetings,” conducted by Mr. Seyi Sanya, Principal Assistant Registrar in charge of Senate and Ceremonies.
Speaking on the broader impact of such training programs, Professor Otinwa highlighted, “Capacity development in university administration not only benefits the institution but also serves as a model for other African universities. Skilled administrators are essential for the effective functioning of higher education institutions across the continent.”
UNILAG’s approach to administrative development reflects a trend seen across many African universities, which are increasingly prioritizing staff training as a path to institutional success and enhanced student experiences. The program’s emphasis on professional growth aligns with the university’s broader mission to foster academic excellence and public accountability within Africa’s educational landscape.
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