ABUAD Advancing SIWES Placements for Global Standards

Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD) is making significant strides to secure international placements for its students under the Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES). 

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elisabeta Smaranda Olarinde, FCAI, FCArb, disclosed this during the 2025 SIWES Orientation Program held on Wednesday (January 15, 2025), at the Bimbo Owolabi Hall.

The Vice-Chancellor emphasized ABUAD’s commitment to excellence, aligning with the vision of its Founder, Aare Afe Babalola, OFR, CON, SAN, LL.D (London), LL.D (UNILAG), LL.D (UI), D.Lit (NDA), FNIALS, FCI.Arb, FNSE, highlighting the institution’s dedication to producing globally competitive graduates by leveraging partnerships with high-tech—internationally esteemed institutions.

“We are working to have our students trained by experts in China and other renowned global institutions,” Prof. Olarinde stated. 

She recalled her visit to Cherami Investment Group, Zhejiang Polytechnic University, and Shenzhen Institute of Information Technology, China, where she explored opportunities for students’ exchange programs in engineering, sciences, and related fields.

“Our first question during these visits was whether we could send our students to benefit from the cutting-edge technology in these institutions,” she said, adding that the response was overwhelmingly positive.

The Vice-Chancellor described the SIWES program as central to ABUAD’s mission, urging students to see it as an invaluable opportunity to gain more practical skills and exposure. 

She reiterated that ABUAD’s students are the university’s greatest assets and encouraged them to uphold the Institution’s tradition of excellence.

ITF Collaboration and Expert Guidance
The program featured key stakeholders, including Alhaji Sule Rauf, Area Manager of the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) Akure Area Office, ably represented by Mrs. Grace Agbaje, Head of Training; SIWES Officer, Mr. Fabamise Adedeji; and Training Development Officer, Mr. Olorunfemi Olamide.

Mrs. Agbaje applauded ABUAD for its exceptional approach to education, urging students to maximize the SIWES program. “This is an opportunity for you to gain exposure to skill acquisition, modern technology, and advanced machinery beyond the classroom,” she said. She encouraged students to be proactive and focused during their placements. “Avoid complaints, be result-oriented, and notify your SIWES coordinator if you face any challenges,” Mrs. Agbaje advised.

Interactive Sessions
The event also included technical sessions led by ITF officials, offering students insights into their roles, comportment and procedures for documentation. These sessions availed the prospective SIWES’ students the opportunity to ask questions.

Other notable dignitaries present at the program included ABUAD’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Olasupo Ijabadeniyi; University Librarian, Dr. Roseline Subaru; Director of International Collaboration and Linkages, Prof. Sunday Adeniran Afolalu; and SIWES College Coordinators.

Initiated in 1973 by the ITF, SIWES aims to equip students with hands-on experience in handling industrial equipment and machinery, preparing them for professional careers. ABUAD continues to distinguish itself as a hub of innovation, societal transformation, and global relevance, ensuring its students are well-prepared to thrive in a competitive world.

From the VC’s Desk