By Abdulfatah Babatunde
Lagos, Jan. 13, ’25 (TNZ) The Rector of Yaba College of Technology, Dr Ibraheem Abdul has called for institutional commitment to fostering industry partnerships in Nigeria.
TheNewsZenith reports that Abdul made the call when he paid a visit to the NEM Insurance’s chairman and management team at the weekend in Lagos.
The Rector said such a partnership was the only way to bridge the gap between academia and the professional world.
He emphasized the College’s vision of connecting the “town and gown” through strategic collaborations that will benefit students, staff, and the broader industry.
Members of the college management team accompanied Abdul on the visit.
He outlined Yabatech’s priority of preparing students for the challenges of the modern workplace through meaningful engagements with the private sector.
“Industry partnerships remain at the top of our agenda.
“We believe these collaborations are key to ensuring our students gain practical, hands-on training that prepares them for real-world challenges,” he remarked.
The rector highlighted the importance of updating the academic curriculum to reflect current industry trends and realities.
He implored NEM Insurance and other corporate bodies to actively participate in curriculum reviews and drafting.
This is to ensure that what is taught aligns with the expectations of today’s job market.
Abdul also advocated for a mentoring programme called “A Day with the Professionals or CEOs”.
This is a forum where industry experts would spend a day with students to provide insights into their fields.
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They will also share professional experiences and offer guidance.
“This initiative will inspire our students and also help build strong relationships between academia and the corporate world,” he said.
The Rector stressed the importance of the insurance industry and the need to train young professionals who can contribute to the sector. He, however, called for the creation of start-up hubs in the College.
“The hub, he said, would serve as incubators for innovative ideas and skills development for both staff and students.
“There should also be start-up kits for such students and staff,” TheNEwsZenith quotes the Rector as saying.
Responding, the Managing Director/CEO of NEM Insurance, Mr Andrew Ikekua, expressed appreciation to the college for the visit and vision.
Ikekua praised the College’s forward-thinking approach and affirmed NEM’s willingness to partner with the institution.
“At NEM, we are deeply committed to supporting initiatives that promote education and industry growth.
“We will build on this partnership to make it stronger and more impactful,” TheNEwsZenith quotes NEM boss as saying.
He further assured the Rector and his team that NEM would actively support the proposed exchange programmes.
According to him, the programme aims to provide students with practical exposure to the insurance sector. He sought for mutually beneficial relationship between the two institutions.
The CEO noted that such collaborations would enhance both academic and industry performance. (TNZ)
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