The Chairman of the Industry Advisory Board (IAB), Faculty of Engineering, Adeleke University, Ede, Mr Ibraheem Bello, has pledged to strengthen collaboration between academia and industry to improve the quality of engineering education and produce graduates equipped for the global workforce.
Bello made the commitment in a statement issued on Thursday in Osogbo following his inauguration as chairman of the board.
According to the statement, the former Chairman of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Ibadan Branch, described his appointment as a call to service and expressed gratitude to the university’s management for the confidence reposed in him.
He promised to discharge his responsibilities with diligence, professionalism, transparency and integrity.
Speaking on the inauguration theme, “Bridging Industry Gaps, Advancing Educational Excellence, and Celebrating Academic Milestone,” Bello stressed that stronger partnerships between universities and industry are essential for driving technological innovation, advancing research and supporting national development.
He explained that the Industry Advisory Board would serve as a strategic bridge between academic learning and practical industry experience, ensuring that engineering graduates possess the knowledge and skills required to compete in an increasingly globalised economy.
Bello said the board would focus on deepening collaboration between the Faculty of Engineering and relevant industries while promoting curriculum development that reflects emerging technologies and global best practices.
He added that the board would encourage research partnerships, foster innovation, support the commercialisation of research outcomes, and expand internship, mentorship and career development opportunities for students.
The IAB chairman also underscored the importance of promoting entrepreneurship among engineering students to enhance their employability and contribute to economic growth.
According to him, Nigeria’s drive for sustainable development in infrastructure, energy, transportation, manufacturing and digital technology depends on universities producing graduates who are not only academically competent but also innovative, entrepreneurial and ethically grounded.
Bello reaffirmed his commitment to working closely with the university management, faculty, industry stakeholders and members of the advisory board to advance Adeleke University’s vision of academic excellence and stronger industry relevance.
Source:NAN
