By Ikenna Nwokedi
The Nigeria Universities’ Engineering Student Association (NUESA) UNIZIK, Faculty of Engineering, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, have commenced skills acquisition training for Undergraduate students of the Faculty aimed at empowering her academic products to be self-reliant upon graduation from the Institution.
Speaking during an official event to kickoff the programme held at the Chisco Institute for Logistics and Supply Chain Management Auditorium on Tuesday, 24th June, 2025, the Dean of the Faculty, Engr. Prof. Ugochukwu Okonkwo stated that the programme was in fulfillment of his vision and commitment towards imbibing experiential learning and producing graduates who are well equipped both in learning, character and hands-on experiences to add value to themselves and to the society.
Prof. Okonkwo disclosed that the skills acquisition training has nine training hubs which are lucrative when learned properly with the training being the first phase which will be expanded further as it will be part of the SIWES package for 200 level students who will start going for SIWES from 200 level in line with the CCMAS curriculum. The Dean further disclosed that the trainers are people with the requisite capacity drawn from within and outside the University. The scholar advised the students to make the best of the training in order to contribute their quota to societal growth.
In his remarks, the Director of Chisco Institute of Logistics and Supply Chain Management, Engr. Dr. Tochukwu Onyeyili who gave his support also noted that self discovery, discipline and focus on academic excellence are critical factors needed for a student to excel in an ivory tower and set the tone for success in the real world outside the University. Dr. Onyeyili tasked the trainees to work towards overcoming identified academic development challenges so as to attain self development by inculcating the positive values.
In a note of appreciation, the President of NUESA (UNIZIK Chapter), Comr. Victor Anusionu appreciated the Dean of the Faculty for his exceptional leadership and unwavering support while also extending his gratitude to the students who enrolled for the skill acquisition programme. Also speaking, NUESA Sec. Gen. who anchored the programme, Comr. Chinwendu C. Ojukwu encouraged the students to prioritize skill acquisition and seize opportunities for growth and self development.
The colourful event also featured a tour of the different training hubs by the Dean and his Team as well.