The National Chairman of the Nigerian Institution of Mechanical Engineers(NIMechE), a division of Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Engr. Alhassan Abdu Mohammed, has said that the rapidly evolving world has placed higher expectations on young engineering graduates than ever.
The National Chairman while speaking at the maiden edition of Engr. Emeritus Prof. Olufemi Bamiro colloquium in Ibadan, noted that modern day employers are only seeking professionals who not only possess theoretical knowledge but also have the practical skills to solve real world problems and adapt to ever changing technology landscapes.
He added that the topic of the colloquium, “Bridging the Gap: Enhancing University and Polytechnic Engineering Graduates Employability in the Modern Workplace”, was crucial to the future of engineering education and practice in Nigeria.
The Chairman who was represented by Engr. Amos Komolafe, said that the gap between academy learning and industrial requirements remain a challenge that must be urgently addressed to ensure that Nigerian graduates remain competitive in the global market.
“This colloquium presents a unique opportunity to hear from thought leaders, industry experts and academia on how we can close the gap and better prepare our graduates for the reality of the modern workplace.
“There is an urgent need to share insights on strategies to enhance employability from aligned curriculum with industry needs to create more internship opportunities and foster a culture of lifelong learning, “he said.
The Keynote speaker, Engr. Prof. Minoru Sasaki from Gifu University of Japan, urged Nigeria leaders to see the large population of the younger generation as opportunities for a big market and an opportunity to promote economic development.
He noted that Japan has challenges of a decreasing population which has made many industries in the country to be in dire need of human resources.
He urged the government to harness huge potentials in the large population of the younger generation in Nigeria through new innovation which serves the key point of society 5.0.
“The society 5.0 initiative aims to leverage science, technology, and innovation to foster a sustainable, inclusive future.
“Society 5.0 transcends conventional boundaries, integrating cyber and physical realms to address environmental, economic, and social issues through a holistic and innovative approach, “he said.
Earlier, the Chairman, NIMechE Ibadan Chapter, Engr. Wole Ayanrinde, in his remarks said that Prof. Bamiro’s selection as the celebrant for the prestigious event was a testament to his unwavering commitment to research, teaching, mentoring and the pursuit of academic excellence.
He added that Prof. Bamiro’s illustrious career in engineering coupled with his invaluable contributions to NIMechE, has earned him the respect and admiration of his peers and students alike.
“Today, we gather not only to celebrate his accomplishments while alive but also to learn from his vast knowledge and experience.
“This maiden edition of colloquium is a testament to our unwavering dedication to the dissemination of knowledge and the pursuit of intellectual growth. It serves as a platform to foster meaningful discussions, exchange ideas and encourage interdisciplinary collaboration, “he said.
In his response, the celebrant, Prof. Bamiro expressed his gratitude to the NIMechE Ibadan chapter, organizing committee, University of Ibadan community, well-wishers, and all who have worked tirelessly to make this event a reality.
The event also featured presentations from Engr. Prof. John Olorunmaye, Chairman of the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria(COREN) Engineering Accreditation Committee; Engr. Prof. Ademola Adisa Bello, Registrar, COREN; Engr. Dr. Tolulope ljitona, a Senior Instrumentation Engineer; Engr. Lukman Olayiwola, Chairman Olo Engineering Limited and Olo Industries Limited and Engr. Wale Adediran, MD/CE0, Aamatum Nigeria Limited.
