Trinity University (TU), Yaba, Lagos, has introduced a Skills Acquisition Academy as part of efforts to ensure students graduate with practical abilities alongside their academic qualifications.
The university says participation in skills development will form a compulsory part of students’ training, with the initiative designed to strengthen employability and prepare graduates for opportunities beyond the classroom.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Clement Kolawole announced the initiative on Wednesday during the fourth edition of the university’s annual Campus Flaws programme at the TU City Campus in Yaba.
Academy to develop marketable and entrepreneurial skills
Kolawole said the new academy would focus on equipping students with employability, entrepreneurial and other marketable skills.
According to him, the university plans to work with relevant institutions and leading organisations to deliver the training and expose students to practical areas that can complement their academic studies.
He said the approach was part of Trinity University’s broader objective of producing graduates who combine academic excellence with discipline, practical competence and the ability to navigate life after university.
Campus Flaws focuses on career preparation
The Campus Flaws programme was designed to provide mentoring and career guidance to young people while helping prospective university students prepare for higher education.
The annual event also addresses issues surrounding social vices, personal development and career choices among young people.
This year’s edition brought together at least 500 Senior Secondary School 3 students from 10 schools.
Students encouraged to make informed career choices
Kolawole said one of the objectives of the event was to give prospective undergraduates practical guidance before they make decisions about their university education and future careers.
He said the programme provides students with an opportunity to gain insights that could help them understand different career paths and make informed choices.
The event featured discussions and activities covering career development, personal culture in university, goal setting, leadership and preparation for academic success.
Good character remains central to success
Beyond academic and technical skills, the vice-chancellor stressed the importance of character and responsible conduct.
Kolawole said students need values that can guide their behaviour and help them become responsible members of society.
The message was echoed during the panel discussions, where participants emphasised that academic qualifications and practical abilities should be accompanied by discipline, leadership and positive personal development.
Yvonne Jegede urges students to avoid comparisons
Nollywood actress Yvonne Jegede encouraged the students to concentrate on their own ambitions rather than comparing their progress with that of others.
She urged them to remain committed to their goals, protect their future and maintain determination when faced with difficulties.
Jegede told the students that individual journeys are different and that personal progress should remain the focus.
Timini stresses education and character
Nollywood actor, filmmaker and director Tobi Makinde, popularly known as Timini, also encouraged the students to take their education seriously while developing useful skills.
Makinde, who is known for his role as Timini in Jenifa’s Diary, said education and technical abilities were important but should be supported by good character.
He argued that the way individuals conduct themselves can have a major influence on how far they progress in life.
Panel highlights leadership and entrepreneurship
The panel session encouraged students to pursue academic excellence while developing entrepreneurial and leadership capabilities.
Participants also discussed the importance of social interaction, personal growth and preparing for opportunities outside the traditional academic environment.
The speakers encouraged the students to develop skills that could help them create opportunities for themselves and potentially contribute to opportunities for others.
Event combines mentoring with practical guidance
The programme, organised in collaboration with Etiquette Poise and Protocol Resources (EPRA), featured a panel session, stage play and question-and-answer segment.
The combination of career guidance, mentoring and personal development was intended to give the students a broader understanding of what awaits them beyond secondary school.
With the introduction of its Skills Acquisition Academy, Trinity University is now placing practical skills alongside academic training as part of its approach to preparing students for employment, entrepreneurship and wider responsibilities after graduation.
