Northwest University Kano Successfully Hosts SIWES Orientation Exercise, Expresses Appreciation to Stakeholders

The Directorate of Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES), Northwest University Kano, has successfully conducted its 2025 SIWES orientation exercise, extending heartfelt appreciation to key stakeholders who contributed to the program's smooth and impactful execution.

The orientation program, held on Wednesday, July 31, 2025, brought together officials from the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), University management, former and current SIWES coordinators, and departmental representatives, all united in guiding students on the principles and practices of industrial training.

The event was graced by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academics), Professor Aisha Garba Habib, who ably represented the Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Mukhtar Atiku Kurawa. In her address, she emphasized the critical role of SIWES in bridging the gap between classroom knowledge and practical industrial experience, urging students to take the training seriously as part of their academic and career development.

Also present at the event were former Directors of SIWES, who offered invaluable insight based on their years of experience, as well as all departmental SIWES coordinators, whose role in organizing and mentoring students was visibly commended.

From the Industrial Training Fund, the following officials honored the orientation with their presence:

Aliyu Ahmad Bichi, Head of Training

Zaharaddeen Muhammad Usman, SIWES Officer

Haruna Rasheed Abdullahi, SIWES Officer

Yakubu Sani, SIWES Accountant

Barr. A'isha Muhammad Kawuwo, Legal Officer

Their participation shows the ITF’s commitment to ensuring seamless collaboration between institutions and industry in delivering quality training to students.

During the interactive sessions, students received lectures on the conduct, expectations, and reporting formats required for the SIWES program. All former SIWES coordinators were also in attendance and took turns to educate students on best practices and challenges associated with industrial attachment, drawing from past experiences and institutional case studies.

The directorate, under the leadership of Dr. Isa Baba Koki, noted with pride that the orientation exercise was hitch-free, highly interactive, and well received by both staff and students. Feedback from attendees reflected enthusiasm and appreciation for the hands-on guidance and mentorship provided.

In a proactive step towards addressing a lingering challenge, the directorate also responded swiftly to a key recommendation raised during the Second Quarter SIWES Zonal Meeting regarding students without valid bank accounts. Recognizing the importance of timely stipend disbursement, bank officials were invited to the venue and successfully opened new accounts for affected students, ensuring financial inclusion and preparedness for the upcoming training phase.

The SIWES Directorate expressed deep gratitude to all parties involved for their support, dedication, and professional input that made the 2025 SIWES orientation a reality. Their collective effort has further strengthened the University’s resolve to deliver a standard and student-focused industrial training experience.

This orientation marks another milestone in the University's strategic mission to produce industry-ready graduates equipped with both theoretical and practical expertise.