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OAUSTECH: Nigerian Students Encouraged to Shift Their Focus Beyond Academic Certificates

Nigerian students have been urged to have a paradigm shift by not only prioritizing university certificates but also paying attention to their passions, innate abilities, and potentials. This counsel was reiterated during a specialized lecture organized for graduating students of Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology (OAUSTECH) in Okitipupa, Nigeria. The lecture, which took place on Wednesday, 19th June 2024, was themed "Think Beyond School"and featured industry leaders and distinguished speakers.The Director General of the Ondo State Pension Commission (OSPENCOM), Hon. Babatunde Adefusi-Owate, underscored the significance of comprehending that being a graduate is merely a stepping stone and that continuous skill enhancement and lifelong learning are crucial in the contemporary job market. He accentuated the value of becoming a specialist in one's chosen domain and urged graduates to establish a distinct position for themselves, pursue professional career advancement, and concentrate on personal development, financial management, and maintaining a work-life equilibrium. Moreover, he recommended graduates to contemplate becoming entrepreneurs by registering their enterprises with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and operating within the legal boundaries.Furthermore, graduates were advised to refine their communication skills, participate in capacity-building workshops, seminars, and training sessions, and obtain pertinent competency certifications. They were encouraged to foster a growth-oriented mindset, embrace challenges, and construct a robust professional network. Additionally, they were reminded to allocate a segment of their earnings for emergencies or investments.Dr. Adeyemi Adeyemo from the Department of Biological Sciences at OAUSTECH advised students to pursue careers that align with their interests and capabilities, highlighting the importance of offering solutions to global predicaments. He implored them to adopt the "shape"principle, which involves recognizing their unique talents, following their instincts, identifying their strengths, understanding themselves, and acquiring valuable experiences.Mr. Olanrewaju Shittu, the Operation Manager of SALBA, underscored the necessity for individuals to identify their interests, motivations, and strengths to pursue a gratifying career. He emphasized the significance of rigorous training, coaching, continuous learning, and acquiring certifications to excel in their respective fields.Similarly, Mr. Felix Odofin emphasized the differentiation between academics and education, urging graduating students to set explicit goals for their future and concentrate on meaningful life pursuits. He encouraged them to explore solutions to global challenges and not be restricted by their backgrounds, accentuating the importance of perpetual learning.In conclusion, the students were advised to remain focused, nurture their talents, and engage in continuous self-improvement. They were encouraged to positively impact the world by offering their best and becoming adept problem solvers. The lecture, attended by students, educators, and administrators, aimed to equip graduates with the essential skills for a successful transition into the professional realm.In his opening address, the Vice-Chancellor and Chief host, Prof. Temi Ologunorisa, expressed his gratitude to the students for their strong attendance, emphasizing that the purpose of the lecture was to equip them for life post-graduation, enabling them to have a clear sense of direction.The esteemed professor of climate science extended his thanks to the OAULA Career Centre for coordinating the lecture, informing the graduating students that the Centre would provide instruction and exposure to essential 21st-century skills. These skills include crafting effective CVs or resumes, mastering interview etiquette, composing impactful application/cover letters, job search strategies, proficient verbal and written communication, and adept presentation skills, akin to practices in American universities.Expanding on this, the Vice-Chancellor highlighted that the University had already instituted the Centre prior to the recent directive from the Federal Government through the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (Tetfund), mandating all tertiary institutions in the country to establish a Career Center for the acquisition of pertinent skills before graduation.He expressed appreciation to the guest speakers for accepting the invitation and generously dedicating their time to benefit the graduating students.In her welcome speech, the Acting Director of OAULA, Dr. Cecilia Oluwamodupe, graciously acknowledged the Vice-Chancellor for his unwavering support of the Academy.Extending a warm welcome to the students at the special event, she encouraged them to be attentive as there was much to glean from the gathering.Dr. Oluwamodupe revealed that the Academy had thoughtfully gathered seasoned professionals and experts who have traversed similar paths to share their post-graduation experiences, ensuring that the students are well-prepared for the future and the challenges ahead.Concluding the event, the special guest, the Ondo State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Pastor Segun Ayerin, represented by Engr. Adegoju Owolabi, congratulated the students and urged them to consider themselves fortunate to partake in a transformative and defining programme.He urged them to explore and cultivate their unique gifts and talents, maintain focus, and develop personal projects they can rely on in times of need.Hon. Ayerin advised them to strive to be innovative problem solvers, conduct thorough research, think creatively, and act decisively, encouraging them to make a positive impact on the world by offering their utmost.The lecture was well attended by students, faculty members, administrators, and other guests.