The Federal University of Education (FUE), Pankshin, has hosted the 2026 Second Quarterly Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) Directors and Coordinators Meeting, bringing together stakeholders to discuss strategies for improving industrial training and entrepreneurship development among students.
The meeting, held at the institution’s Library Board Room, underscored the importance of strengthening collaboration between tertiary institutions and the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) in preparing students for the demands of the modern workplace.
Speaking at the event, the Vice-Chancellor of FUE Pankshin, Prof. Noel Wannang, commended the ITF and SIWES for their contributions to bridging the gap between classroom learning and practical workplace experience. He noted that the programme has remained instrumental in making graduates more employable and productive.
According to the Vice-Chancellor, the university remains committed to partnerships that promote entrepreneurship and practical skills acquisition, describing such initiatives as essential for enhancing the competitiveness of graduates in today’s labour market.
Representing the Director-General of the ITF, Dr. Afiz Ogun, and the Area Manager of the ITF Jos Area Office, Engr. Mrs. Mary Igbur, the Head of Training, Mrs. Bolanle Yusuf, appreciated the university’s leadership and support. She explained that the quarterly gathering was aimed at fostering collaboration among institutions, reviewing SIWES operations, identifying challenges, and exploring solutions for improved programme delivery.
Mrs. Yusuf disclosed that the SIWES programme has now been fully automated, necessitating continuous engagement with Directors and Coordinators to ensure seamless implementation of the new digital processes. She also highlighted the ITF’s growing focus on entrepreneurship and youth empowerment through the Skill-Up Artisans (SUPA) programme, designed to equip, certify, and license artisans across Nigeria.
Earlier, the Director of SIWES at FUE Pankshin, Dr. Adenike Odewumi, welcomed participants and emphasized the significance of networking and knowledge-sharing among SIWES stakeholders in enhancing students’ readiness for real-world work environments.
In a vote of thanks, the Registrar of the university, Mr. Longtong Yadok, expressed appreciation to the ITF and SIWES teams for their continued partnership and support.
The event concluded with a technical session focused on improving SIWES implementation across institutions in Plateau State, while awards were presented to outstanding coordinators in recognition of their exceptional performance.
