ITF Hosts 2025/2026 SIWES Orientation for Akwa Ibom State University Students
ITF Hosts 2025/2026 SIWES Orientation for Akwa Ibom State University Students
UmarFarouk123 
The Industrial Training Fund (ITF) has organised the 2025/2026 Students’ Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) orientation seminar for students of Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU) , Wednesday, February 17, 2026, at the Senate Chambers, Main Campus, Ikot Akpaden, Mkpat Enin Local Government Area.
In his welcome address, the Ag.Vice-Chancellor of AKSU, Prof Oto-Abasi E. Akpan, represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor,Administration, Prof. Nkanikpo I. Ibok, welcomed ITF officials, staff, and students to the University. He highlighted the purpose of SIWES in bridging the gap between theory and practice in Nigeria’s higher institutions, emphasising students’ exposure to real-world industrial processes, operational techniques, and equipment handling procedures that are not readily available within conventional classroom and laboratory environments.
Prof. Akpan noted that the programme is mandatory for students in the Faculties of Physical Sciences, Biological Sciences, Engineering, and Agricultural Sciences. He commended the ITF for its consistent collaboration with the University and encouraged students to uphold the vision and mission of AKSU by demonstrating self-discipline, integrity, and commitment. He urged them to serve as worthy ambassadors of the University while acquiring hands-on skills essential for personal development, national growth, and the enhancement of the institution’s image.
Delivering the keynote address, the ITF Area Manager, Uyo Area Office, Mrs. Beatrice T. Oladokun, represented by the Head of Training, Mr. Chika Kpaku, acknowledged the support of the Vice-Chancellor and the AKSU SIWES Directorate for their dedication to the success of the scheme. She emphasised the importance of the orientation exercise in preparing students for a productive and successful SIWES experience.
Mrs. Oladokun noted that the programme was established in 1974 following concerns raised by industrialists regarding the inadequate practical skills of graduates from higher institutions. She explained that SIWES bridges the gap between theory and practice, preparing students from universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education for the realities of the work environment.She also expressed appreciation to the Federal Government and supervising agencies such as the National Universities Commission (NUC), the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), and the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE) for their support in strengthening and sustaining the programme.
In his goodwill message, the Director of SIWES, AKSU, Dr. Godwin Udoh, advised students to take the SIWES programme seriously, remain focused, and adhere strictly to laid-down guidelines and documentation procedures. He encouraged them to be proactive, punctual, respectful, and open to learning throughout their industrial attachment. He further reminded them that their conduct during the training period would reflect not only on themselves but also on Akwa Ibom State University, urging them to uphold the core values and reputation of the institution at all times.
In a vote of thanks, the coordinator of SIWES, Department of Geology AKSU, Dr. Abraham C. Udo, expressed sincere appreciation to the Vice-Chancellor, the ITF delegation, departmental coordinators, staff, and students for their collective contributions to the success of the seminar. He urged students to conduct themselves responsibly throughout the programme and to uphold the good image of the University at all times.
Highlights of the programme included presentations by ITF officials on stakeholders’ roles, SIWES documentation procedures, and financial guidelines, followed by interactive question-and-answer sessions.
In attendance were:the Head of Training, Mr. Chika Kpaku; Desk Officer, Mrs. Esther King; and Accountant, Mr. Oliver Ebi.
Participants from AKSU included Faculty and Departmental SIWES Coordinators as well as representatives from the Directorate of Information, Public Relations, and Protocol
