The University of Ilorin has unveiled the Innovative Skills and Pioneering Entrepreneurship Award.
The groundbreaking programme, launched on the university campus on Friday, aims to equip students with essential vocational skills through partnerships with industry leaders, including artists, who will serve as instructors for registered participants.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. AbdulWahab Egbewole, highlighted the programme significance, stating that it is designed to enable students to acquire practical skills during their leisure time at the institution.
He noted, “The general stance with graduates in most of our institutions now is that they do not possess the required skills, and herein lies the gap this programme will fill. This partnership enriches our students’ educational experience and ensures they develop the practical skills required by today’s fast-evolving industries.”
While participation in the programme is optional, the VC assured students that “Students will be issued certificates after the training.”
This certification process will also be accessible to students from other institutions, with all training conducted online, making it more inclusive.
Egbewole emphasized that the initiative reflects the university’s commitment to celebrating the personal and professional achievements of its students.
He elaborated, “It is also a key part of our mission to achieve Vision 1:10:500, a bold step towards positioning and repositioning ourselves as a world-class university. Achieving this status means prioritizing our students and their success. Their ability to thrive, both during and beyond their time here, hinges on acquiring lifelong skills that prepare them not only to graduate in character and learning but also to contribute meaningfully to society, which is the ultimate essence of their training.”
He further asserted the importance of the U-INSPIRE Award, stating, “This is where the U-INSPIRE Award plays a crucial role in ensuring that our students are equipped not only with degrees but also with essential practical and soft skills to navigate an increasingly competitive global workforce.”
Dr. Abdulkarim Oloyede, acting Director of the Centre for Research Development and In-house Training, emphasized the importance of the programme.
He stated, “It is an all-round programme for acquiring skills and an outlet for the students.”
