SIWES Directors, Coordinators Brainstorm On Student Industrial Training Challenges In Plateau

Directors and coordinators of the Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) gathered in Pankshin, Plateau State, to deliberate on challenges affecting the effective implementation of the programme in tertiary institutions.

The meeting, held at the Federal University of Education (FUE), Pankshin, was chaired by the Head of Training at the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), Jos Area Office, Mrs Bolanle Yusuf.

Yusuf said the quarterly engagement was convened to address issues affecting SIWES planning, coordination, implementation, and execution across participating institutions.

“We are here to brainstorm on issues that affect SIWES planning, coordination, implementation, and execution in our institutions of learning,” she said.

“When we brainstorm, we try to find solutions to any issues affecting the programme because any issues affecting SIWES affect our students.

“Our findings will be reported back to the ITF and to the Federal Government so that those issues will be tackled at that level,” she added.

She explained that the SIWES programme was designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical experience, exposing students to real-life workplace environments to enhance their competence after graduation.

The Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Education, Pankshin, Prof. Noel Wannang, welcomed participants from various institutions across Plateau State, expressing appreciation to the ITF for supporting the take-off and smooth operation of SIWES in the institution.

He said the programme plays a critical role in simplifying academic theories through practical exposure, describing the ITF as a key contributor to shaping students’ skills and future prospects.

The registrar of the institution, Mr Longtong Yadok, also welcomed participants and wished them fruitful deliberations.

The ITF used the occasion to present awards to some SIWES coordinators across different institutions in recognition of outstanding performance.

Speaking on behalf of the recipients, Mr Danwanzam Goteng expressed appreciation for the recognition, promising continued commitment to improving the effectiveness of the programme.