The Lagos State University (LASU) Epe Campus came alive on Saturday, 7th September 2024, as the Directorate of Skills Development and Entrepreneurship (DSDE) held its much-anticipated 2023/2024 Academic Session Exhibition/Fair.
This event served as a compulsory practical assessment for 300-level students enrolled in the ENT 302 course, showcasing their entrepreneurial talents and skills aligned with the university’s curriculum.
In his opening remarks, Head of Campus, Prof. Elkanah Oyetunji, underscored the significance of practical skills in today’s economy.
“Your meal ticket is the skills you have right now; guide it jealously,” he urged students, motivating them to see their acquired skills as vital tools for future financial success.
He also expressed gratitude to Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello, mni, NPOM, for her steadfast support, which enabled Epe-based students to host their exhibitions locally, minimizing the need for travel to the Ojo campus.
“This exhibition is a testament to the Vice Chancellor’s commitment to your education,” Prof. Oyetunji remarked.
“Take this golden opportunity to leverage these skills for economic gain, rather than relying solely on your certificates,” he concluded.
Dr. Habeeb Sanni, Director of DSDE, welcomed exhibitors to the fair’s second edition and congratulated them on their achievements. He addressed the pressing need for entrepreneurship and vocational training in light of global population growth and its economic implications.
“In light of the current unemployment challenges, we are dedicated to equipping students with hands-on skills that meet market demands,” Dr. Sanni affirmed.
He also stressed the importance of aligning the university’s curriculum with the National Universities Commission (NUC) directive, which mandates the integration of entrepreneurship training into higher education.
This initiative reflects LASU’s commitment to preparing students for a competitive job market, increasingly saturated with unemployed graduates.
The DSDE aims to cultivate sellable skills and entrepreneurial capabilities among students, empowering them to seize opportunities for economic independence.
The exhibition featured 16 out of the 36 entrepreneurship vocations offered at LASU, showcasing a variety of skills including beads making, organic soap and cream production, leather works, cake making, event planning, and solar energy construction and installation.
Students demonstrated their creativity and potential economic contributions through these diverse offerings.
Furthermore, the DSDE provides short certificate training courses for university staff and the public, enhancing their vocational skills and entrepreneurial knowledge. Recently, a successful six-week training program was held at the Ojo campus, equipping staff with valuable skills.
The exhibition tour was led by Prof. Oyetunji, alongside Dr. Sanni, and several assessors, including Prof. K. F. A. Oyedeko and Dr. Ahmed Lawal, who evaluated the innovative products created by the budding entrepreneurs, reflecting their hard work and dedication.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Ms. Temitope Ladipo-Sott, PAR/Secretary of DSDE, who expressed appreciation to all participants and supporters of the fair.
The LASU Epe Campus Exhibition/Fair not only celebrated student accomplishments but also reinforced the university’s commitment to nurturing a culture of entrepreneurship and practical skill development, paving the way for a brighter economic future for its students.