University of Ibadan Hosts Career Trade Fair to Boost Student Employability
The University of Ibadan (UI) recently organized a successful career trade fair, bringing together students and graduates with leading Nigerian industries. The event took place at The International Conference Center in Ibadan on Friday and aimed to provide participants with real work experience, mentorship, and job opportunities.
Professor Olutoyin Fashae, the convener of the event and Head of the Geography Department, emphasized that the fair was created to help fresh graduates and students interact with industries. This interaction is intended to prepare them for future challenges in the job market. She also highlighted that the university plans to integrate industry input into its curriculum, allowing professionals to teach certain topics while students are still in school.
Fashae encouraged participants to take full advantage of the networking opportunities available. She noted that some attendees might use this platform to develop strategies for securing partnerships or job placements. “It is my great pleasure to welcome you to the University of Ibadan Career Fair 2025, themed ‘Tech, Talent and Tomorrow: Preparing Nigerian Youth for Global Opportunities,’” she said.
She added that the fair has evolved beyond being just a meeting ground for job seekers and employers. It now serves as a networking hub where students can connect, collaborate, and grow together. Fashae expressed gratitude to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research, Innovation and Strategic Partnerships, Professor Oluyemisi A. Bamgbose, members of the planning committee, and all participating companies. She acknowledged their contributions in giving students real exposure to industry expectations.
Fashae proposed that the university’s collaboration with industries should extend beyond the annual fair. She suggested inviting professionals to teach specific course topics and mentor students. Additionally, she recommended strengthening internship programs to ensure graduates gain practical, hands-on experience before leaving the university.
Commitment to Bridging Academia and Industry
Professor Kayode Adebowale, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, spoke about the importance of the fair in empowering young Nigerians to thrive in a rapidly changing global workforce. He stated that the theme of this year’s event, “Tech, Talent and Tomorrow: Preparing Nigerian Youth for Global Opportunities,” reflects the institution’s vision of innovation meeting education, and learning translating into employability and leadership.
Adebowale explained that the event offers students a unique opportunity to connect with top employers, explore internships and job opportunities, and build networks that will shape their professional futures. He reaffirmed the university’s commitment to bridging the gap between academia and industry by ensuring that graduates possess not only knowledge but also the skills, creativity, and confidence needed to compete globally.
He emphasized that the world of work is evolving quickly due to technology and global interconnectivity. As Nigeria’s premier university, he stressed the importance of preparing students to be active contributors and global citizens rather than mere observers of change.
Empowering Graduates for a Global Future
Professor Oluyemisi Bamgbose, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research, Innovation and Strategic Partnerships, highlighted the role of the fair in empowering graduates to become creators of knowledge, drivers of innovation, and champions of inclusive development in a globalized economy. She noted that the partnership between industries and the university reflects a shared belief that youth advancement leads to a stronger nation and a more prosperous world.
Bamgbose urged students to embrace courage, adaptability, digital competencies, creativity, and a spirit of lifelong learning. She reiterated that the theme of this year’s fair captures the pulse of a world shaped by innovation, which is the architect of modern economies.
Insights from Industry Leaders
Olusegun Alebiosu, CEO of First Bank Plc, addressed students on the importance of hard work and talent. He emphasized that talent without hard work will remain underutilized. Alebiosu, who was represented by his technical adviser, Akinsope Roberts, noted that the pace of innovation is accelerating and that people must stay close to the times.
He described talent as the currency of tomorrow and urged students to actualize their leadership potential. He added that leadership is the bridge between talent and opportunity. Alebiosu also encouraged students to be punctual and resilient in achieving success, stating that Nigerian youths are leaders of today, not just tomorrow.
He highlighted the significance of Africa’s growing workforce, noting that by 2030, Africa will have the largest workforce in the world. This presents both a blessing and a responsibility to equip the continent, particularly Nigeria, to participate in the global economy.
Participation from Leading Organizations
Several prominent organizations participated in the fair, including First Bank, Aradel Holdings, GB Foods, Dangote Group, MTN Nigeria Telecommunications, and Airtel Nigeria Telecommunications. These companies provided valuable insights and opportunities for students and graduates.