In a bid to bridge the gap between academia and industry, Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) recently hosted ‘A Day with Industry Partners’—a platform designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed for the workforce.
Speaking at the event, the Rector, Dr. Ibraheem Abdul, highlighted the institution’s commitment to fostering industry collaborations that drive innovation, provide internship opportunities, and support enterprise development. He stressed that such partnerships would offer students hands-on experience beyond theoretical learning.
“Our goal is to ensure students gain not just classroom knowledge but real-world industry exposure through mentorship and skill-building,” Abdul stated. He also emphasized the importance of research collaborations, noting that YABATECH boasts over 1,000 qualified staff members capable of contributing to industry development.
Chairman of the institution’s Governing Council, Prof. Funsho Afolabi, described the initiative as a crucial step toward addressing societal challenges through skills development. He commended the event for strengthening ties between academia and industry.
Similarly, the Director of the Centre for Linkages, Partnership, and Internal Relations, Dr. Moshood Ajala, noted that the program reflects YABATECH’s vision of transforming education, research, and skills development to meet global standards.
A key highlight of the event was the presentation of the Award for Innovation to outstanding staff and students who showcased innovative projects. Cash prizes ranging from N200,000 to N500,000 were awarded to winners for their exceptional contributions to industry-related solutions.
Dr. Oloketuyi Samson emerged as the top winner, receiving N500,000 for his work on a locally designed charcoal stove. Dr. Ofodile Lauretta, who developed a project on cooking utensils, secured the first runner-up position with a N300,000 prize. The second runner-up, Mr. Chinatoye Simeon, received N200,000 for his innovation.
Two exceptional students, Olorunfemi Emmanuel and Olatunbosun Oluwatofunmi, who finished fourth and fifth, were also recognized with cash prizes of N150,000 and N100,000, respectively.
The event underscored YABATECH’s commitment to practical learning, industry collaboration, and fostering a new generation of problem-solvers ready to contribute to national development.
