Oluwafeyisayo Adebanjo

On Monday 11th November, 2024, the University of Ibadan held a Career Fair in commemoration of the 2024 Convocation and Foundation Day Ceremonies.

The event which was majorly sponsored by Aradel Holdings was held in the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan with the theme – Global Career Pathways: Empowering University of Ibadan Alumni for Success that empowered fresh graduates to navigate their place in the market space.

Addressing the topic, various speeches were delivered by different personalities who were mostly alumni of the University of Ibadan. In an address speech by the Chairman of the Occasion, Mr. Kayode Adebiyi, Managing Director, FanMilk Nigeria PLC, advised students to put God first in all they do, embrace failure by failing forward, take chances and embrace mentorship for guidance. “Do not aspire to make a living alone but to make a difference,” he asserts.

The keynote address was delivered by Engineer Adegbite Falade, Managing Director/CEO, Aradel Holdings, who claimed to provoke the mind of the participants rather than giving prescriptions. He emphasised on building a strong network, of which he is a testament of. He asserts that a career is a life journey and greatness does not happen by chance.

Mr. Abayomi M. Ali, Manufacturing Director, Unilever Nigeria PLC during his speech titled-My Professional Journey recounted his journey from a student in the prestigious school to his present position. He advocated for passion in what participants find doing and gave twenty-four nuggets to help them in their career journey.

Notably, in the panel discussion, Professor Oyedunni S. Arulogun,Vice Chancellor, Chrisland University, Abeokuta, Mr. Olumide Adeniji, Human Resources Director, FanMilk Nigeria PLC, Mrs. Seyi Soyemi, Law Pavilion and Mrs. Oyebimpe Adesola, MTN representative explored the topic – Navigating the Global Job Markets: Strategies for UI Alumni to thrive in a competitive world. They encouraged participants to learn the advancement of the technology world to overcome the challenges faced by fresh graduates in the market space. Mr. Olutide advised them to pay attention to details when applying for jobs to overcome competition, volunteering for experiences and having the right attitude to learning. Students are encouraged to take up courses on Coursera, LinkedIn, YouTube and other social media platforms for the knowledge and certification to leverage on in the market space. 

In the end, Professor Adeyinka G. Falusi, founder of Sickle Cell Hope Alive Foundation(SCHAF) gave a brief health talk to discuss the Sickle Cell Scenario: Effecting a Dynamic Change in Nigeria. She emphasised on the prevention, care, and cure of the disease thus calling participants to action to know their genotype, spreading the awareness, reducing stigmatization, volunteering for research and essential programmes among many others.

The event was graced by many dignitaries among which are Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, mni, FAS, represented byDeputy Vice-Chancellor Academic, Professor Aderonke Bayeroju,  Professor Oluyemisi A. Bamgbose, SAN, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research, Innovation and Strategic Partnership, Professor Adejoke Adepelu, UI Public Relation Officer, Mr. Ganiu O. Saliu, Registrar, Mr. Kayode Adebiyi, Managing Director, FanMilk Nigeria PLC, Professor Oyedunni S. Arulogun,Vice Chancellor, Chrisland University, Abeokuta, Dr. Olutoyin A. Fashae, Convener, UI Career Fair 2024, Engineer Adegbite Falade, Managing Director/CEO, Aradel Holdings, Mr. Abayomi M. Ali, Manufacturing Director, Unilever Nigeria PLC, Mrs. Oluwafeyikemi Niyi-Oluyinka, Members of the Governing Council, Deans of Faculties and other parastatals.

The occasion was sponsored by Aradel Holdings, Fanmilk, Unilever, Law Pavilion, Salvage, Total Health Care and many more with fair booths at the venue.

The 2024 Convocation and Foundation Day Ceremonies which began on Tuesday 5 November continues to Monday 18 November, 2024.