University of Ilorin Launches Entrepreneurial Skills Programme

The University of Ilorin has introduced a new initiative aimed at equipping students with entrepreneurial skills to tackle unemployment among graduates in Nigeria. This initiative, known as the Innovative Skills and Pioneering Entrepreneurship Award, was officially launched on the university’s campus recently.

The programme is a collaborative effort between the university and industry leaders, including artists, who will provide vocational training to students alongside their regular academic curriculum. The Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. AbdulWahab Egbewole (SAN), elaborated on the programme’s objectives, stating it is intended to fill the skills gap present among many graduates today. “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,” Professor Egbewole noted. “This partnership enriches our students’ educational experience and ensures they develop the practical skills required by today’s fast-evolving industries,” he added.

Participation in the programme remains optional, but students who do partake will receive certificates upon completion. Prof. Egbewole also mentioned that the initiative is open to students from other institutions as well, with the certification process being managed online. “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,” Egbewole highlighted.

Dr. Abdulkarim Oloyede, the acting Director of the Centre for Research Development and In-house Training, reinforced the value of the programme, describing it as a comprehensive approach to skill acquisition and an essential resource for students. “It is an all-round programme for acquiring skills and an outlet for the students,” Dr. Oloyede commented.

Acknowledging the collaborative nature of the programme, Prof. Ndubuisi Ekekwe from the Tekedia Institute expressed appreciation towards the University of Ilorin and remarked on their role in the U-Inspire Award to support students’ entrepreneurial pursuits. “To the Champions, we’re honoured for the privilege to receive this honour to educate on the fundamental elements of business and entrepreneurship,” he stated. Tekedia Institute has engaged with multiple universities across Africa, providing entrepreneurial training through its platforms.