Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai, in collaboration with the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), has commenced a large-scale orientation exercise for over 2,300 students embarking on their Students’ Work Experience Scheme (SIWES), designed to bridge the gap between classroom knowledge and practical industry skills.

Declaring the workshop open on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Mohammed Hadi Suleiman, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic, Professor Mohammed Aliyu Bello, underscored the importance of practical exposure for undergraduates, noting that mere academic excellence without skills has left many graduates unemployed.

He stressed that the programme was not just about securing jobs but empowering students to become job creators.

“The University has done its part by training you in the classroom. Now, you are going out into the industry to gain practical experience. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and I urge you all to take full advantage of it,” he stated.

Professor Hadi also stressed the importance of professionalism and discipline, urging students to uphold the University’s reputation.

“IBB University is known for producing well-trained and disciplined students. When you go out, you are not only representing yourselves but also the University and your community. Employers value integrity and hard work, so do not engage in any behavior that can tarnish your image or that of the University,” he advised.

In his welcome remarks, the Director of SIWES, Professor Ish’aq Ma’ali, expressed delight at the students’ presence, emphasizing the significance of the programme in equipping them with practical skills and knowledge essential for their future careers.

“As we all know, SIWES is designed to provide students with hands-on experience, allowing them to familiarize themselves with equipment and machinery that may not be available within the university,” he stated.

Representing the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) Minna Area, Office, the Head of Training, Alhaji Ishaku Abubakar , highlighted the importance of the SIWES programme in bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

In their separate presentations, Mal. Abubakar isyaku, the Head of Training ITF, Mrs Usman Adishatu Adams, Principal Training Development Officer, ITF Minna Area office, Bello Usman Danwanzan Head of Finance and Account and Engr. Umar Haliru, the SIWES Schedule Officer, provided a comprehensive guide on the dos and don’ts of documenting SIWES forms and other relevant work papers.

The Registrar, and Secretary to the Council, Alhaji Idris Saleh Kusherki, represented by the Establishment Secretary, Mr. Sunday Gana, expressed gratitude to the Industrial Training Fund for its consistent support in organizing SIWES orientation workshops.