Federal University of Technology Akure Equips Industrial Engineering Students for the AI-Driven Future

The Federal University of Technology Akure has reaffirmed its commitment to producing industry-ready graduates in the era of Artificial Intelligence through a seminar hosted by the Department of Industrial and Production Engineering (IPE), School of Infrastructure, Mineral and Manufacturing Engineering (SIMME).

The seminar, held on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, was themed “Preparing Future-Ready Engineers: Integrity, Employability, and Industry Expectations.”

The event brought together students, faculty, and industry experts to address the evolving demands of the labour market and the skills required to thrive in an AI-driven environment.

Delivering the first lecture, Engr. Adebayo Awoyele, Lead Analyst at NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services (NUIMS), encouraged students to look beyond their immediate field of study and anticipate emerging skills in areas such as renewable energy, sustainability, and digital tools. He emphasized that employers value integrity, time management, communication, initiative, problem-solving, and adaptability, urging students to leverage every opportunity, including their Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES), to build practical competencies.

Engr. Awoyele also highlighted the importance of acquiring additional technical skills, including AutoCAD, SolidWorks, 2D/3D design, and Microsoft Project, noting that these skills increase employability and create avenues for self-employment. He advised students to “Think global, prioritize soft skills alongside technical skills, and never underestimate their value in the marketplace.”

The second lecture, delivered virtually by Engr. Kayode Temenu, focused on “Career Opportunities for Industrial and Production Engineering Graduates in Nigeria and Beyond: Positioning Yourself for Success Before Graduation.” He stressed the importance of mastering course outlines as a technical foundation, staying adaptable and resilient, and proactively seeking global opportunities through online resources. Engr. Temenu emphasized that blending technical expertise with soft skills, including communication and problem-solving, is critical for career advancement and competitiveness in the AI age.

In the third lecture, Engr. Professor Sesan Ayodeji, pioneer Head of Department of IPE, addressed “Examination Malpractice: Consequences, Integrity, and the Future of Your Career.” He warned students that academic dishonesty could tarnish both individual reputations and the University’s standing, emphasizing that digital monitoring in today’s era ensures cheats are easily detected and penalized.

Earlier in the programme, the Dean of SIMME, Prof. Christopher Akinbile, represented by Prof. V. Akinbinu, highlighted that universities are environments for character development, urging students to proactively enhance their skills through independent study, volunteering, and hands-on practice during breaks.

The Head of the Department of Industrial and Production Engineering, Prof. Taiwo Abioye, in his welcome remarks, expressed appreciation to the guest speakers for bridging the gap between academic theory and professional practice, reinforcing FUTA’s mission to produce graduates who are both technically competent and professionally versatile.

The seminar reflects FUTA’s proactive approach to preparing students for the challenges of a rapidly changing global labour market, particularly in fields affected by technological advancement and Artificial Intelligence.