The acting Rector, Polytechnic Ibadan, Dr Taiwo Lasisi, has expressed readiness of the institution to collaborate with the Nigerian Institution of Mechanical Engineers (NIMechE), Ibadan Chapter, to enhance students employability skills.
Dr Lasisi stated this while receiving members of the Nigerian Institution of Mechanical Engineers who paid him a courtesy visit on Friday in Ibadan.
Lasisi said that the specialized training programmes offered by NIMechE would be of immense benefits for the students of polytechnic of Ibadan in bridging the gap between classroom knowledge and field experience.
He added that the institution would work with the professional bodies on Students Industrial Work Experience(SIWES) placement in order to identify companies and establishments that would provide relevant practical knowledge for students on industrial attachments.
“Students induction and professional mentorship programme is another way whereby professional bodies can give back to the society. This will ultimately lead to the emergence of qualified engineers in Nigeria, “he said.
The acting rector promised that NIMechE Ibadan chapter would continue to enjoy the support of the polytechnic of Ibadan in all its programmes.
Also speaking, the Chairman, Nigerian Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Ibadan chapter, Engr. Wole Ayanrinde(FNIMechE), said that the visit was to congratulate and identify with the acting Rector on his new appointment and to provide necessary support as a professional body.
Engr. Ayanrinde said that the visit would also deepen the collaboration between NIMechE and Polytechnic of Ibadan in areas of training and student engagements.
He noted that NIMechE Ibadan chapter in collaboration with Poly Ibadan mechanical engineering departments and faculty over the years have executed many programmes to enhance employability skills of the students.
According to him, the first NIMechE induction for Higher National Diploma(HND) programme was carried out in the polytechnic of Ibadan.
“There has been good feedback from our specialized training over the years among parties involved. Through our industrial network as a professional body, we have fixed students from Poly Ibadan and other institutions to companies relevant to their course of study for industrial attachments, “he said.
Engr. Ayanrinde commended the poly management for supporting NIMechE members working with the polytechnic of Ibadan in areas of conference sponsorships and other programmes.
