By Usman Aliyu
Prof. Lawrence Ezemonye, the Vice-Chancellor, Igbinedion University, Okada, Edo, says role of the university in fostering entrepreneurial culture amongst students and staff is critical to national development.
Ezemonye stated this on Tuesday during the 11st students’ product exhibition of the University’s Centre for Entrepreneurship and Skills Acquisition.
The vice-chancellor, while declaring the exhibition open, said the institution had adopted a mult-faceted approach to foster skill acquisition among its students.
This, according to him, involves Entrepreneurship pedagogy at 200 Level for all disciplines, entrepreneurship mentorship, enterprise incubation, creation hubs and encouraging start-ups while on campus.
“At 300 Level, the students are exposed to practical training and hands-on in any of the 14 skill sets available, leading to creation of physical products.
“Today’s event therefore marks the formal conclusion of the mandatory entrepreneurial training for the students culminating in the exhibition of products.
“The academic culture in Igbinedion University is built around the knowledge of entrepreneur’s enterprise, entrepreneurial thinking, idea generation and opportunity business model,” he said.
Ezemonye asserted that the programme had witnessed an incredible diversity of talents, which defined the university community.
“Ranging from groundbreaking technological innovations to aesthetically captivating designs, each exhibit is a testament to the hard work, ingenuity, and passion that our students have poured into their projects.
“It is great to see young people enthusiastically willing to take the future in their own hands with the entrepreneurial spirit.
“The world today needs fresh perspectives and boldness to conquer the future. To this reality, Igbinedion University Okada has deemed it necessary to ensure that our students are digitally literate and technologically fluent.
“In the ever-evolving landscape of higher education, the ability to innovate and adapt is paramount.
“The products displayed here today not only demonstrate the knowledge and skills acquired through academic pursuits but also reflect the tenacity and creative -thinking mindset that our students possess,” he said.
Earlier, Dr Mary Josiah, the Director of the Centre, said the students have come to showcase their products from 13 schools, including animal husbandry; bakery and confectionery; block moulding, hair care, manicure and pedicure. NAN
