LASU Epe Campus Hosts Skills Exhibition, Showcases Entrepreneurial Talents of 300-Level Students

The Lagos State University (LASU) Epe Campus came alive on Saturday, September 7, 2024, as the Directorate of Skills Development and Entrepreneurship (DSDE) held its 2023/2024 Academic Session Exhibition and Fair. The event, a compulsory practical assessment for 300-level students enrolled in the ENT 302 course, offered a platform for the students to demonstrate their entrepreneurial skills, developed as part of LASU’s curriculum.

In his opening remarks, the Head of Campus, Professor Elkanah Oyetunji, underscored the importance of practical skills in today’s competitive environment. "Your meal ticket is the skills you have right now; guide it jealously," Prof. Oyetunji advised, urging students to recognize the potential of their acquired skills for future financial success. He praised Vice Chancellor Professor Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello, mni, NPOM, for her support in making the event a reality. Prof. Oyetunji expressed gratitude for the Vice Chancellor’s approval, which allowed the Epe Campus students to host their exhibition locally, reducing the need for frequent travel to the main Ojo Campus.

“This exhibition is a testament to the Vice Chancellor’s commitment to your education,” he added, encouraging students to leverage their skills for economic gain rather than relying solely on academic qualifications.

Dr. Habeeb Sanni, Director of the DSDE, welcomed students to the second edition of the fair, highlighting the growing importance of entrepreneurship in the face of global population growth and its economic consequences. “In light of the current unemployment challenges, we are dedicated to equipping students with hands-on skills that meet market demands,” Dr. Sanni stated, emphasizing LASU’s alignment with the National Universities Commission’s (NUC) directive to integrate entrepreneurship training in higher education.

The fair featured an array of vocational skills from 16 out of the 36 vocations offered at LASU, including bead making, organic soap and cream production, leatherworks, cake making, event planning, and solar energy installation, among others. Students displayed their products and services, showcasing both creativity and marketable potential, with the event reinforcing the university’s drive to produce self-reliant graduates.

Dr. Sanni also noted that the DSDE extends vocational and entrepreneurial training to university staff and the general public, offering short certificate courses to boost their skill sets. A recent six-week training program held at the Ojo Campus saw staff members acquire valuable vocational skills.

The tour of the exhibition was led by Prof. Oyetunji, accompanied by Dr. Sanni and other assessors, including Prof. K. F. A. Oyedeko and Dr. Ahmed Lawal. Together, they evaluated the innovative products created by the students, which reflected the culmination of months of hard work and dedication.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Ms. Temitope Ladipo-Sott, PAR/Secretary of DSDE, who expressed appreciation to all participants and supporters of the fair.

The LASU Epe Campus Exhibition and Fair celebrated the achievements of the students while solidifying the university’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and practical skill development, preparing students for a successful and independent economic future.