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From Lateef Dada, Osogbo
The Vice-Chancellor, Redeeemer’s University, Ede, Professor Shadrach Akindele, has explained that the best way for Nigerian universities to tackle the exodus referred to ‘japa syndrome,’ is to take vocational skill serious.
He said the university has introduced mandatory vocational skill development for its undergraduates as proactive move to combat the trend of fresh graduates seeking opportunities abroad.
Speaking at the press conference heralding the 17th convocation ceremony of the university, yesterday, he disclosed that 185 out of 1,341 students graduated with first-class degrees.
Professor Akindele explained that the introduction of skill development aims to create entrepreneurs who are less inclined to emigrate in search of better prospects. He emphasized that each student will receive two certificates upon graduation: one for their primary degree and another for their vocational training.
“Other countries are benefiting from our best minds by offering them scholarships for postgraduate education.
Unfortunately, many of these graduates do not return to Nigeria after their studies, and this is a significant issue.
“To address this, the university has implemented an entrepreneurship program that begins in the first year of study.
“Students are required to select a vocational course alongside their primary course, which they will pursue every semester until graduation. Vocation options include graphic design, computer programming, and farming, among others,” Akindele said.
He explained further that by the time students reach their final year, they will learn essential business skills, including how to pitch their ideas, create start-up firms, access loans, and develop business proposals, saying “This comprehensive approach ensures that graduates are not only equipped with academic knowledge but also practical skills that will allow them to thrive in Nigeria,” Akindele added.
He emphasized that this initiative aims to empower graduates to establish their businesses, potentially leading to job creation for others. He said, “By the time they complete their National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), they will already be earning and may even begin hiring others, reducing the motivation to leave the country,” Akindele said.
Regarding the recent graduation ceremony, Akindele highlighted that the convocation lecture, themed “Beyond Degrees: Cultivating Purpose, Resilience, and Service in a Complex World,” will be delivered by Mr. Olanipekun Olukoyede, Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
In terms of academic achievements, the Vice-Chancellor reported that among the graduates, 185 earned first-class honours, 662 received Second Class Upper Division, 410 earned Second Class Lower Division, 79 graduated with Third Class, and five students received Pass degrees.
At the postgraduate level, 338 students are set to graduate, including 109 Postgraduate Diplomas, 65 Master of Arts degrees, 120 Master of Science degrees, 25 Master of Business Administration degrees, and 19 Doctor of Philosophy degrees.
