20/08/2025
*AAPOLY FLAGS OFF SIWES ORIENTATION, PREPARES ND 2 STUDENTS FOR INDUSTRIAL TRAINING*
The atmosphere at Abraham Adesanya Polytechnic (AAPOLY), Ijebu-Igbo, was filled with anticipation on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, as National Diploma (ND 2) students gathered at the Science Complex of the institution's main campus for the Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) orientation programme. The event, which commenced at exactly noon, was organised in collaboration with the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), Ogun State Zonal Office, Abeokuta, to equip students with the right mindset, skills, and safety awareness before embarking on their six-month industrial attachment.
In his welcome address, the Rector of the Polytechnic, Engr. Dr. Mobolaji A. Onasanya described SIWES as one of the most critical aspects of a student’s academic journey.
“SIWES is not just a programme; it is your bridge to the world of work. What you learn here in the classroom will be tested in real-life situations. Take this exercise seriously, conduct yourselves responsibly, and make AAPOLY proud wherever you are posted,” he charged the students.
The Rector also appreciated the ITF team for their long-standing support in ensuring that Aapoly students receive proper orientation and guidance before stepping into the industrial space.
Representing the ITF Area Manager, Mrs. Bolanle Ajibade, was Mr. Solomon Oyedokun, Head of Finance and Accounts, Ogun State Zonal Office. He commended the Polytechnic for its dedication to student development and reminded participants of ITF’s mandate to prepare Nigerian students for the workplace.
“We are here to ensure that you are adequately prepared, not just to learn, but to contribute meaningfully to the organisations you will be attached to,” Oyedokun stated.
The orientation exercise was divided into two sessions. The first session, handled by Oyedokun and Ms. Cynthia Otuwarikpo, SIWES Officer, covered essential areas such as documentation, students’ code of conduct, the history and objectives of SIWES, and the roles of various stakeholders.
The second session, facilitated by Mr. Oluwakolade Aje, Training and Development Officer, focused on workplace safety. He enlightened the students on accident prevention, emergency response, and the importance of adhering to safety protocols during industrial training.
Also in attendance were the Polytechnic’s SIWES Director, Mrs. Oluwabiyi, and departmental SIWES coordinators, who pledged their readiness to support students throughout the programme. Members of the management team joined the Rector in hosting the visitors from ITF, underscoring the institution’s commitment to ensuring that students maximise the SIWES opportunity.
For many ND II students, the orientation served as both a wake-up call and an inspiring moment.
“I now understand that SIWES is not just a requirement, but a chance to prove myself,” said Temitope Adeyemi, an ND 2 Mass Communication student.
“The session on documentation opened my eyes to how important record-keeping will be.”
Another student, Seyifunmi Adefeyiju from the Business Administration Department, highlighted the relevance of the safety session.
“We often take safety for granted, but today I realised it could save lives. I feel better prepared for the challenges ahead,” he remarked.
The SIWES programme, which spans several months, will see students deployed to industries across the country where they will gain hands-on experience in their respective fields. The orientation exercise, according to organisers, was designed to ensure students not only perform well but also uphold the image of the Polytechnic.
As the event drew to a close, there was a shared sense of readiness among students and staff alike. The Rector’s words lingered in the hall: “This is your chance to turn theory into practice. Embrace it.”
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