Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED), Ijagun, recently played host to key stakeholders in industrial learning as it welcomed participants to the 2025 Second Quarter Zonal Supervisory Meeting of the Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES).
The meeting, held at the University’s Senate Chamber, brought together Directors and Coordinators of SIWES from tertiary institutions across Ogun State.
In his welcome address, the Vice-Chancellor and Chief Host, Professor Oluwole Sikiru Banjo, FWISON, FAIMP, FASN, dfisn underscored the significance of the SIWES programme in bridging the gap between academic theory and industrial practice. He described the initiative as a critical platform for equipping students with real-world experience, enhancing their employability and preparing them for the ever-evolving demands of the workforce.
“This meeting is not just a statutory obligation but a platform for institutional introspection, policy refinement, and peer-to-peer learning,” the Vice-Chancellor said.
He urged stakeholders to actively engage in the discussions and to develop solutions that align with the modern workplace and national development goals.
Prof. Banjo also extended special recognition to the Convener of the meeting and Area Manager of the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), Abeokuta Area Office, Mrs. Bolanle Ajibade, praising her leadership and consistent drive for excellence in SIWES coordination. He likewise acknowledged the Chairperson of the meeting, Dr. V.A. Dairo, Acting SIWES Director at Crawford University, for her institutional insights and expected contributions to the deliberations.
Earlier, the TASUED SIWES Coordinator, Dr. Hassan Kassim, who served as host of the meeting, expressed delight at the University’s opportunity to host the quarterly supervisory session. He commended the University’s Management, particularly the Vice-Chancellor, who was once a former SIWES Director for providing a supportive environment for experiential learning.
Dr. Kassim also used the platform to celebrate the ITF Abeokuta Area Office for what he described as a historic sweep of prestigious awards, making it the first ITF zone to achieve such recognition within a single year.
“This achievement is a testament to the office’s administrative excellence and coordination prowess,” he said.
He encouraged all Directors and Coordinators present to seize the opportunity for knowledge sharing, collaboration, and strategic thinking.
“Let us forge stronger partnerships that will ultimately benefit our students and the industrial landscape of our state and nation,” he added.
The meeting served as a crucial touchpoint for evaluating the implementation of SIWES across institutions in Ogun State, exchanging best practices, and exploring ways to further improve the scheme’s relevance and effectiveness in shaping industry-ready graduates.
The event concluded with expressions of goodwill and renewed commitment to advancing the goals of the SIWES programme in the region and beyond.