Abuja: Some students and lecturers of the University of Abuja have described the Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) as crucial in bridging the gap between classroom learning and workplace practice. In separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), they advocated improved funding and supervision for the scheme to maximise its benefits.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the students said the scheme equipped them with technical skills, workplace ethics, and confidence that lectures alone could not provide. Ms. Laura Fumen, a 300-level Journalism and Media Studies student, expressed that SIWES had transformed her academic knowledge into practical experience, allowing her to experience first-hand what she had been learning in the classroom.
Fumen highlighted the practical experience she gained in video editing and television transmission, noting a lack of access to a personal computer as a significant challenge. She urged educational institutions and stakeholders to provide functional computers to strengthen journalism students’ digital media skills.
Similarly, Mr. Nicholas Samuel, a 400-level Electrical and Electronics Engineering student, shared his experiences at Univolt Technologies, Gwagwalada. He gained hands-on experience in installing solar power systems, CCTV systems, and home automation technologies. Samuel emphasized the financial difficulties related to transportation, accommodation, and feeding during the training, appealing for government stipends to ease the burden.
Mr. Dogara Prince, a 400-level Quantity Surveying student, noted that the scheme significantly strengthened the practical aspect of his education. He called for increased site visits and better financial support to overcome the challenges of mastering practical construction work.
Mr. Ola-Falayi Oluwamayokun, a 300-level Mathematics student, described his enriching experience at the International Centre of Applied Mathematical Modelling and Data Analytics. He acquired valuable digital competencies, particularly in data analysis, but cited the demanding schedule as a challenge, advocating for monthly financial support.
Meanwhile, Mr. Ahmed Shuaibu, a lecturer at the University of Abuja, emphasized SIWES as a vital component of tertiary education. He highlighted challenges such as securing quality placements, inappropriate work assignments, and financial constraints. Shuaibu urged for stronger partnerships between universities and industries to ensure relevant placements and adequate funding for the scheme.