UNILORIN launches online vocational training

Towards finding a lasting solution to the common joblessness occasioned by the socioeconomic reality in the country, the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) has launched an Innovative Skills and Pioneering Entrepreneurship Award (U-INSPIRE Award).

The programme, launched last Friday, partners captains of industries, including artistes, to take on registered students in vocational skills to complement their academic pursuits.

According to the Vice Chancellor, AbdulWahab Egbewole (SAN), “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.”

Though optional, the varsity boss said, “Students will be issued certificates after the training.”

Explaining that students from other institutions will also be encouraged and accepted into the programme, Egbewole added that the entire process up to the point of certificate issuance is online.

He said that the idea is a reflection of the school’s commitment to recognizing and celebrating the personal and professional achievements of students.

“It is also a key part of our mission to achieve Vision 1:10:500, a bold step toward positioning and repositioning ourselves as a world-class university.

“Achieving this status means prioritising 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, as this is the ultimate essence of their training.

“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,” he explained.

He stated that the U-INSPIRE Award is more than just a certificate, noting: “It is an innovative, creative, and holistic program designed to empower students for success.

“As previously mentioned, this unique two-phase initiative aims to ensure that students do not just pass through the university but that the university leaves a lasting and transformative impact on them.

“Throughout their studies, students will have the opportunity to earn individual certificates for each component of the program. These certificates, issued jointly by our esteemed industry partners and UNILORIN, are more than mere qualifications; they symbolise the valuable collaboration between academia and industry.

“Upon completing their studies, students will present a portfolio of accomplishments and apply for the prestigious U-INSPIRE Award. This recognition will only be granted to those who meet the rigorous requirements we have established.”

He, however, appreciated the industry partners for their contributions, which he described as invaluable and pivotal to the success of the program.

“By collaborating with us, you are not only investing in the future of our students but also fostering innovation and entrepreneurship within your respective fields. You are actually positioning yourselves for the bright minds we are to be producing in UNILORIN.

“The certificates, jointly issued by you and the University of Ilorin, will serve as a testament to the skills and experiences our students have gained, closing the gap between academic learning and practical industry needs. It is a way to innovatively prepare for the world of work,” he stressed.

Earlier, the chairman of the program’s implementation committee, Prof. Rasheed Jimoh, confirmed that the programme would expand students’ entrepreneurial skills and spirit.

He explained that the school would not stop after the training: “The school, after issuing certificates, will link successful students with captains of industry for the realisation of their dreams and the courses of study.”