UNILAG Hosts Training to Boost Interpersonal Skills for Halls of Residence Staff

On October 24, 2024, the Student Affairs Division at the University of Lagos (UNILAG) organized a specialized training program for Hospitality Officers and Porters across the university’s Halls of Residence. Themed Essentials of Interpersonal Relationships and its Benefits in the Halls of Residence, the event took place at the Rahamon Bello Hall, UNILAG, Akoka, and focused on enhancing communication and relationships between staff and students.

                                                                                         Mrs. Asiwaju

In his opening remarks, Dr. A.A. Mogbademu, Deputy Dean of the Student Affairs Division, acknowledged the Dean, Professor Musa Adebayo Obalola, for championing the program to improve interactions between hall staff and students. Dr. Mogbademu urged participants to apply the interpersonal skills acquired during the training to foster a welcoming environment in their respective halls.

Dr. Mogbademu

Mrs. Josephine Aderonke Asiwaju, Director of the Staff Training and Development Unit (ST&DU) and the event’s Guest Speaker, led an interactive session featuring video presentations and personal case studies. Her presentation underscored the critical aspects of interpersonal relationships, with a focus on trust, respect, communication, and emotional intelligence. Emphasizing the value of positive interactions, Mrs. Asiwaju encouraged staff members to approach their roles with a sense of parental care but warned against unprofessional communication that might impact their standing.

Mrs. Asiwaju highlighted how effective interpersonal communication benefits students’ overall university experience, enhancing academic performance, engagement, well-being, and participation. For staff, she noted, effective communication fosters teamwork, problem-solving skills, and stronger collegial trust and respect, essential for managing conflicts in a diverse environment like the Halls of Residence.

In her closing remarks, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Janet Aregbesola from the UNILAG Counselling Unit advised attendees to refer students needing additional support to the Counselling Unit. She emphasized the unit's role in promoting students’ academic success through tailored support services.

The program attracted key university personnel, including members of the Staff Training and Development Unit (STDU) and the Student Affairs Division, marking a collective step toward nurturing positive, supportive relationships within UNILAG’s residential community.