FUNAAB SIWES Orientation Prepares Batch A Students for Industrial Training

The Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), recently organized an orientation programme for Batch A students of the 2024/2025 academic session. The event, which targeted students from the Community-Based Farming Scheme (COBFAS), Aquaculture and Fisheries Management (AQFM), and Forestry and Wildlife Management (FWM) departments, aimed to equip participants for their upcoming industrial training placements.

In his keynote address, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) and Chairman of the SIWES Committee, Professor Olukayode Akinyemi, emphasized the importance of the SIWES programme in providing students with essential hands-on industrial experience. He encouraged students to maximize this opportunity by developing practical skills, building professional networks, and gaining exposure to real-world applications, which would be invaluable for their future careers.

“SIWES is designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical experience, helping students acquire industry-relevant skills and enhancing their job prospects after graduation,” Professor Akinyemi noted. He further expressed gratitude to the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Babatunde Kehinde, the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), and other stakeholders for their continuous support in ensuring the programme's success. He also stressed the importance of safety and security during the industrial training period, urging students to remain vigilant.

In her remarks, the Director of SIWES, Professor Adeolu Akinyemi, reinforced the programme’s core objectives, encouraging students to fully engage in their industrial experience. She highlighted the importance of establishing meaningful professional relationships during their training and taking advantage of the industry exposure to enhance their learning.

Representatives from the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) were present to provide additional guidance to the students. They urged participants to maintain focus, steer clear of illegal activities like cybercrime, and uphold the integrity of both the university and their personal reputations during their training.

The event concluded with closing remarks from Mrs. Omolara Taiwo, FUNAAB’s SIWES Officer, who expressed her gratitude to the university management, ITF officials, and other SIWES representatives for their contributions to the successful execution of the orientation programme. She also encouraged students to take their training seriously and represent the university with pride.

The SIWES orientation was a collaborative effort between FUNAAB and the ITF, conducted in both physical and virtual formats to ensure wider participation and engagement. The session equipped students with critical insights to navigate their industrial placements successfully, while also reinforcing the value of experiential learning as a key component of their academic journey.