Abdulwasiu Akintunde
The Rector of Moshood Abiola Polytechnic (MAPOLY), Abeokuta, Dr. Adeoye Odedeji, has disclosed that the institution will require all students to complete a compulsory Skills Qualification Program as part of their graduation requirements.
Dr. Odedeji made this known during an exclusive interview on Thursday, following the matriculation ceremony for the 2023/2024 academic session.
He emphasized that the institution’s focus extends beyond traditional academics to include entrepreneurship training, digital skills acquisition, and career services.
He said: “This initiative aims to ensure that every graduate possesses practical skills in addition to academic knowledge. In today’s world, having only a diploma or degree is not enough.
“There’s a pressing need for every student to acquire practical skills relevant to the job market.”
He added, “This aligns with the mandate of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), which encourages institutions to develop skill-based programs alongside formal education.”
As part of this initiative, the Rector introduced the instruction’s Centre for Skills Development, which was created to bridge the gap between academic learning and industry demands.
The newly established Career Services Centre (CSC) marks the third pillar in MAPOLY’s approach to grooming graduates who are well-prepared for the workforce.
The Rector revealed that the Centre will introduce new courses and programs tailored to equip students with job-relevant skills throughout their academic journey.
“This effort is designed to guide students from their first day on campus through to graduation, ensuring they have the competencies required for employment or entrepreneurship,” the Rector added.
A senior lecturer from the Department of Mass Communication, Dr. Shola Adeosun, elaborated on how the new Career Services Centre will operate.
He explained that some of the Centre’s specialized courses will be integrated into the general curriculum, similar to the way entrepreneurship courses are taught across departments.
“These programs are structured to run throughout a student’s academic life, regardless of their chosen field of study. This model allows for continuous engagement and development, preparing students to meet the expectations of the labor market.”
He further noted that the institution will collaborate closely with employers to keep the curriculum updated.
“Employers will have the opportunity to review and suggest modifications to our programs, ensuring our graduates remain relevant in an ever-evolving job market,”
The institution’s focus on entrepreneurship, skills development, and career services reflects its commitment to producing graduates capable of thriving in today’s competitive environment, either as entrepreneurs or professionals.
The Rector was joined by Dr. Olabisi Baiyewu, Director of the Centre for Entrepreneurship Development; Engr. Dr. Apampa, Director of the Skills Acquisition Centre; and the Director of the newly established Career Services Centre during the unveiling of the institution’s mission statement banner.
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