UNILAG Empowers Students with Entrepreneurship and Innovation Skills
The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has launched a five-day entrepreneurship, innovation, and business incubation certification seminar aimed at equipping students with essential skills for the future.
Chris Oyeoku Okafor 
The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has taken a bold step towards shaping the future of its students by introducing a five-day entrepreneurship, innovation, and business incubation certification seminar. Held at the Ade Ajayi main auditorium, the seminar brought together students from various faculties and delegates from Babcock University.
Folasade Ogunsola, the Vice-Chancellor of UNILAG, emphasized the importance of nurturing a creative mindset to adapt to the rapidly changing world. She encouraged students to break free from limiting beliefs and embrace an entrepreneurial mindset, which she believes is crucial for success in any field.
"We want you to grow your mind, changing the way you think, and allowing your mind not to be limited by narrow views of life. Your creativity is what makes you outstanding in the world whether as an employee or employer," said Ogunsola.
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Ogunsola also highlighted the significance of collaboration and networking in the entrepreneurial journey. She revealed that UNILAG has incubators in place to guide students in developing the necessary skills to succeed as entrepreneurs.
Ayodele Atsenuwa, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor in charge of development services, urged students to discard the mindset of waiting for job opportunities and emphasized the importance of small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) in driving economic growth.
"Becoming an entrepreneur equips you for the future. Hence, you must learn to add value in terms of becoming a value creator and value consumer," Atsenuwa said.
Sunday Adebisi, the Director of Entrepreneurship Centre at UNILAG, discussed the transformation of hobbies, talents, and interests into viable business ventures. He cited examples of successful entrepreneurs who turned their passions into profitable businesses, inspiring students to explore their potential.
Chioma Ogwo, the Head of Emerging Business at Access Bank Plc, highlighted the significant contribution of SMEs to Nigeria's economy, accounting for about 60% of the country's GDP and employing approximately 90% of its workforce.
Ogwo outlined the essential qualities of a successful entrepreneur, emphasizing the importance of innovation, initiative, responsibility, risk-taking, and enhancement. She encouraged students to be visionary, passionate, creative, and adaptable to succeed in the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
The introduction of the entrepreneurship, innovation, and business incubation certification seminar at UNILAG reflects the university's commitment to equipping students with the skills and mindset needed to thrive in the evolving global landscape. With the support of experienced professionals and the university's resources, students are empowered to become future leaders and change-makers in society.
