The Directorate of the Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) of the University has held its 2021 orientation exercise.
In his address at the event held, yesterday, at the Senator Anyim Pius Anyim auditorium of the University, the Vice-Chancellor, represented by the DVC Academic, Prof. Udo Herbert, described the scheme as an opportunity for students to gain requisite work skills. He advised students present at the exercise to avail themselves of the opportunities SIWES provides for them to transit smoothly to the work environment.
In his opening remarks, the Director of SIWES at the University, Prof. Udochukwu Nelson Onwuka, expressed satisfaction at the large turnout of students, stating that it was an indication of their interest in their industrial training.
The SIWES director thanked the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Maduebibisi Ofo Iwe for his support for the scheme. Prof. Onwuka also appreciated the Public Relations/Protocol Unit of the University and the various SIWES coordinators and supervisors for their contributions to the success of all SIWES programmes.
In her address at the event, the Area Manager of the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), Aba Area Office, Mrs. Chioma Egbobe, stated that SIWES was established by the Federal Government to provide an avenue for students in tertiary institutions to acquire industrial skills and experience in their course of study. Mrs. Egbobe added that students must shun absenteeism for them to benefit from the programme.
The high point of the event was an award of scholarships to three students from the College of Crop and Soil Science (CCSS) by Indorama Fertilizer Company, Port-Harcourt. In her remarks at the occasion, the Dean of the College, Prof. Olayinka Nwachukwu, who disclosed that the awardees were picked during their SIWES year, urged students present at the exercise to always strive for excellence.