The Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) is set to continue its unwavering support for entrepreneurship and skill acquisition, as highlighted by Vice Chancellor Professor Adenike Oladiji during a vibrant exhibition of student-produced products.
The event, part of the compulsory course titled Acquisition of Practical Skills in Entrepreneurship (ENT 302), was hosted by the Centre for Entrepreneurship (CENT) on Friday, September 20, 2024, at the Afen Adebayo Multipurpose Auditorium.
Professor Oladiji opened the event with enthusiasm, stating, “This is another opportunity to see what our students have done through skills acquired these few weeks. It is an annual event which has produced and exposed budding entrepreneurs for our nation and even beyond. I have it on good record that skills acquired from this training in the past have helped a lot of our products after graduating.”
Highlighting the vibrant spirit of the “Futarian” community, Professor Oladiji reiterated the university’s mantra of “technology for self-reliance,” emphasizing the importance of acquiring technology and lifelong skills for a successful future.
She urged students to harness the power of social media for their entrepreneurial ventures and offered her personal support in promoting student-led businesses that provide solutions on campus.
The VC commended the Centre for Entrepreneurship for its dedication in organizing the annual event, praising the efforts of trainers and everyone involved in the success of the initiative.
In her welcome address, the Director of CENT, Professor Oladunni Daramola, underscored the significance of the training for students’ futures.
She explained, “The purpose is to unearth the hidden entrepreneurial potentials and promote self-reliance.” Professor Daramola noted that the training lays a crucial foundation for students to build successful and sustainable careers, citing examples of alumni who have thrived thanks to similar opportunities.
Expressing gratitude to Professor Oladiji and the university management for their continued support, she stated, “FUTA environment offers a viable platform for patronage,” and conveyed confidence that the university would continue to produce exceptional entrepreneurial talents. She also mentioned a recent talent hunt program aimed at enhancing students’ entrepreneurial skills, thanking collaborators, trainers, and supervisors for their contributions to the annual training success.
The Director of the Technology and Incubation Centre, Professor Olubanjo, and Associate Director of CENT, Dr. Emidun, applauded the students for their hard work and the quality of the showcased products. They encouraged the students to build on their newly acquired skills to improve their future productions.
The exhibition featured a diverse array of products, including farm produce, home accessories, solar-powered appliances, confectioneries, hats, artwork, and fashion items, showcasing the creativity and innovation of FUTA’s entrepreneurial students.