By DAYO ADESULU
Rector Encourages Future-Focused Education
Dr. Engr. Ibraheem Abdul, the Rector of Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH), has urged secondary school students and applicants for the Joint Admission Matriculation Board (JAMB) examinations to pursue sustainable skills courses that will prepare them for future economic opportunities. His remarks were made during a formal presentation of the overall winner’s prize for the nationwide Maritime Quiz Competition, organized by the Ocean Foundation, to Master Uhie Pentecost, an SS II student from Babington Macaulay Junior Seminary (BMJS) in Ikorodu.
Addressing Economic Empowerment
Dr. Abdul emphasized the importance of enrolling in skill-oriented programs in higher education institutions, which he believes will empower students economically and enable them to create livelihoods. He warned against pursuing degrees in programs that may not lead to job creation, particularly in the current socio-economic climate where job opportunities are scarce.
He stated, “Many youths are gravitating toward courses that do not provide sustainable livelihoods. It is crucial for them to engage in relevant, untapped skills that will empower them and offer lasting economic security.”
Call for Enhanced Student Guidance
The rector called on post-primary school administrators to implement comprehensive orientation and counseling for students regarding skills acquisition programs. He asserted that the change in the educational narrative in Nigeria requires collective responsibility from all stakeholders, not just the government.
Dr. Abdul encouraged students to adopt a mindset of continuous learning, which includes learning, re-learning, and un-learning skills. He highlighted that industries are on the lookout for individuals who possess adaptable technical and vocational skills.
Collaboration with Ocean Foundation
The rector commended the Ocean Foundation for its positive impact on students through its initiatives. He praised the dedication of BMJS students to their studies, noting that achieving excellence requires commitment and effort. Despite the competition being designed to promote girl-child education, it was won by a male student, demonstrating the foundation’s inclusive approach.
Dr. Abdul revealed that YABATECH has partnered with the Ocean Foundation to encourage Nigerian youths to recognize that they can pivot their studies toward future opportunities. He invited BMJS students and others to consider YABATECH as their first-choice institution, emphasizing its strong reputation in Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET).
Promoting Maritime Education
Hon. Olaitan Williams, President of the Ocean Foundation, reiterated the foundation’s mission to instill a passion for the maritime sector in young people through initiatives like the Maritime Quiz Competition. She explained that while the quiz aimed to enhance interest in maritime studies, it also promoted girl-child education by allowing male students to participate.
Williams noted that the competition attracted 3,000 students nationwide, with only 100 progressing to the final stage. The competition culminated in the awarding of a laptop to the winner, Master Uhie Pentecost, during the event at YABATECH, where all finalists were invited to engage with the college management.
Recognition of BMJS Achievements
Ven. Bamidele Osunyomi, Principal of BMJS, expressed gratitude to the rector for the opportunity to visit YABATECH and for recognizing the quiz winner with a laptop. He affirmed the relevance of Dr. Abdul’s message regarding the need for skills acquisition in the education sector.
The principal highlighted BMJS’s active participation in various vocational and skills acquisition programs, which have garnered accolades and scholarship offers for its students. He emphasized the school’s commitment to maintaining high standards and ensuring that students are engaged in skill-building activities to prepare them for future success.
Ven. Osunyomi concluded by stating that BMJS has significantly upgraded its laboratories to provide students with access to modern technological facilities that enhance their learning experiences.
Caption: From left: The Rector, Yaba College of Technology, Dr. Engr. Ibraheem Abdul presenting overall winner prize to Master Uhie Pentecost, an SS II student, Babington Macaulay Junior Seminary (BMJS), the Principal, BMJS, Venerable Bamidele Osunyomi and President, Ocean Foundation, convener,Maritime Quiz Competition at the formal presentation of overall winner prize award held at Yaba College of Technology
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