The Rector, Kwara State Polytechnic, Engr. Dr. Abdul Jimoh Mohammed, has described the Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) as a vital part of technical and vocational education which bridges the gap between classroom theory and practical workplace experience.
Engr. Abdul stated this while declaring open the 2025/2026 pre-SIWES Orientation Programme for National Diploma I full-time and part-time students of the Polytechnic.
Represented by the Deputy Rector Administration, Dr. (Mrs.) Felicia Olabisi Awolola, the Rector noted that SIWES gives students the chance to acquire relevant skills, competencies and professional exposure needed to excel in their chosen careers.
He urged students to take the scheme seriously by paying close attention during the orientation, adding that the lectures and presentations will guide them throughout their industrial attachment.
Engr. Abdul advised them not to allow distractions or challenges to stop them, stressing that SIWES is a critical requirement for their academic and professional growth.
He advised the students to be good ambassadors of Polytechnic wherever they are posted.
Officials from the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), and other resource persons also spoke at the event. They explained the dos and don’ts of the scheme to the students which includes placement procedures, workplace ethics, and punctuality.
They also talked about discipline, safety rules, and proper documentation of industrial experience.
The programme was well attended by the Polytechnic Management team, Deputy Directors, Heads of Departments, SIWES Coordinators from the various Institutes and other staff of the Polytechnic.