In its bid to reduce unemployment in Nigeria , University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Ez 37 solutions, First bank plc and other stakeholders held career fair programme for fresh graduates of University of Ibadan.
The event was held on Friday in commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the University of Ibadan held at the International Conference Centre, Ibadan, the Oyo state capital.
Speaking at the event the, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, First Bank Group, Dr Adesola Adeduntan urged graduates to create opportunities and picture a future for themselves.
He described University education as veritable tool for future challenges while he urged the students to put into use what they have learned while in school.
While he also advised youths not to depend on their course of studies while in the University but should explore other sectors.
Adeduntan added that he created an opportunity for himself in the banking industry despite having a Veterinary Medicine degree, adding that youths especially, must always think outside the box.
“Beyond showcasing the opportunities presented by the prospective employers in attendance, the career fair will help to unlock the future for these fresh graduates, thereby equipping them with tools to navigate their paths to a successful and fulfilling career.
“Seeing that you have taken the first and most important step towards shaping your future, the rest should be a journey to self-discovery for you. Don’t be afraid to try and more importantly, don’t be afraid to fail,” he said.
Speaking , Chief Executive Officer , EZ 37 Solutions limited , Adora Ayoade explained that the organisation organised the career fair in collaboration with UI in its bid to address unemployment in the country, she added that the organisation trains unemployed youths on the skills needed when they present themselves at interviews.
She added that organisation holds master class on skills and profession development and life long learning for fresh graduates in order to make the job seekers competent for the roles the organisations are looking for.
Ayoade however advised unemployed youths to acquire soft skills in addition to the certificate acquired in school
Also in his address, the Vice-Chancellor, UI, Prof. Kayode Adebowale who was represented by Prof. Oluyemisi Bamgbose urged the Nigerian graduates to always brace up for future challenges.
He said the future is always bright for the people who are determined to excel.
Speaking in the same vein, People and Culture Director, Japan Tobacco International, Mr Innocent Onnwanne, urged graduates to navigate opportunities beyond borders not necessarily relocating to another country.
He said “Navigating opportunities beyond borders means being equipped educationally, culturally, mentally and financially to grab job opportunities within and outside the country.
Also, David Afolayan, Chief Executive Officer, GIS Konsult, enjoined stakeholders to create enabling platforms for budding entrepreneurs to thrive.
According to him, it is only by creating these avenues that growth and development both personal and corporate can be achieved.
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