SIWES: Ajasin Varsity mobilizes 1,183 students.

No fewer than 1,183 students of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, Ondo State have been mobilized for the 2013/2014 Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES). Speaking at the orientation to expose the students to the nitty-gritty of the scheme, the vice chancellor of the institution, Prof. Femi Mimiko said his management was desirous of enhancing the scheme to achieve the set goal. The event was held at the Olusegun Obasanjo Multipurpose Hall of the ivory tower. Represented by the dean of postgraduate school, Prof. Francis Oyebade, the vice chancellor said the orientation was designed to equip them with necessary knowledge so that they will not be left wondering in their places of attachment. "We give you an idea of what is expected of you by the industry. For that reason, we have invited the ITF team to give you an idea of what industries expect of you, and at the same time orientate you on what we expect of you as a university in terms of your comportment when you get out there", he said. Prof. Mimiko said that the institution placed high premium on SIWES in line with its mission to move manpower in the direction of entrepreneurship. He, therefore, urged the students to be good ambassadors of the university in their various places of attachment. Earlier in his welcome address, the Director of SIWES Unit, Dr Francis Gbore pointed out that SIWES in AAUA constitutes a vital and integral part of the overall training module of undergraduates in the participating departments. Dr Gbore said the programme cuts across 18 disciplines in four faculties of the varsity, saying that the number of students participating in the scheme has increased from 634 that took part last year to 1,183 this year. To further enhance the effectiveness of the scheme, the Director maintained the unit with the support of the management had devised considerable strategies. These, according to him include making SIWES letter available to prospective students at least six months before the kick off of the programme, better remuneration for supervisors in tune with the present economic reality, institution of relevant rules and disciplinary measures to enhance good performance, among others. Speaking on the occasion, the project manager of Industrial Training Fund, Akure Area office, Mr Olanyan Jacob tasked the students to take advantage of the programme to acquire the needed skills, as well as obeying all rules and regulations of their places of attachment. He also admonished them to always observe safety rules. The event featured lectures on adding values to industries and practical ways of filling log book among others. Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme was established by the Federal Government in 1974 to enhance skill acquisition and strengthening professional competency of undergraduates through attachment to relevant industries. Under the programme, 300L students in the participating departments will be out of school for six months for the industrial training. The event was attended by officials of ITF, Akure Area office.