In a bid to encourage harmonious and productive academic environment, the Global Transport Policy (GTP) training academy has emphasised the need to promote emotional intelligence among university teachers.
This was disclosed at a one-day ‘Train the trainer workshop,’ by GTP, in collaboration with Lagos State University (LASU), and sponsored by Segun Musa, a former gubernatorial candidate and organiser of the event.
The event brought together top management staff, and the Vice Chancellor, to learn effective emotional intelligence skills.
GTP Training Director, Dr Segun Awe-Obe, said it is imperative to enhance the ability of university managers to navigate complex interactions and decision-making processes.
Equipping university leaders with emotional intelligence, she noted, would promote peace, understanding, and growth within the school communities.
He said: “Emotional intelligence is crucial for achieving positive results in any interaction. By being aware of one’s own emotions and those of others, leaders can make informed decisions and foster a more conducive learning environment.”
He added that the initiative had benefited public institutions and uniformed personnel, including the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) and Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
With its expansion into the academic sector, the GTP Training Academy aims to create a ripple effect of positivity, enhancing the overall quality of university life.
“By empowering university leaders with emotional intelligence, the programme seeks to improve conflict resolution and management, enhance student-lecturer relationships, foster a culture of understanding and empathy, promote effective decision-making and create a more peaceful and productive academic environment.”
On her part, LASU Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, stressed the role of emotional intelligence in effective leadership, adding that any leader seeking success must possess such a skill.
“The ability to sense the environment, feel the pulse of those you lead, and be a good example, is vital. As leaders, we must prioritise the interests of those we serve.”
She noted the importance of emotional intelligence in maintaining industrial harmony within the university, citing a personal experience where emotional intelligence helped resolve an issue with students.
“By understanding their concerns and empathising with their pains, we were able to find a solution,” she said.
