Students urged to chart path towards career development, entrepreneurship

Students in tertiary institutions across Nigeria have been urged to chart a path towards success in their career and entrepreneurship trajectory by developing professional capacity in pursuit of academic excellence and institutional pride.

This was the fallout of the recent Lagos State University (LASU) Career and Entrepreneurial Seminar 2024, held in collaboration with the National Young Adults and Youth Affairs of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria (CIPM), Ogun State Branch, and Lagos State University.

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Themed, ‘Navigate,’ the seminar served as a testament to the power of partnership in nurturing the academic and professional growth of the students. It also underscored the crucial role of strategic guidance in steering the trajectory of individual careers and entrepreneurial endeavours.

Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, vice chancellor, Lagos State University (LASU) in her welcome address acknowledged the importance of the seminar in fostering educational and professional growth. Her address symbolized the university’s commitment to providing students with enriching opportunities for personal and professional development.

Olusegun Mojeed, president and chairman of the governing council, CIPM, underscored the pivotal role integrity plays in shaping one’s character and professional pursuits. He also disclosed to the students that the CIPM is dedicated to fostering ethical leadership and lifelong success.

Mojeed reiterated that the Institute is committed to assuring unwavering support to the students not only throughout their academic endeavors at the university, but also extended into their professional careers.

Sola Owoeye, National Youth Pastor, RCCG, emphasized the importance of goal-setting, adaptability, continuous learning, networking, and resilience in shaping a successful future. He underscored the need for a strategic mindset, and urged the students to craft a roadmap that aligns with their aspirations.

Owoeye in a paper titled ‘Navigating the Future,’ provided a holistic roadmap for the students in attendance. He stressed the significance of staying adaptable in an ever-changing world, and urged the students to embrace continuous learning through online platforms.

He also highlighted the value of networking and building connections within professional associations, recognizing it as a pathway to future collaborations. According to him, resilience plays a crucial role in overcoming challenges and achieving sustained success.

Sean Olabode Badiru, chairman, CIPM Ogun State branch, stated that students must stay connected with God for ceaseless inspiration throughout their careers. According to him, students must personalise the SWOT analysis, by identifying their strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats to form a strategic foundation.

Speaking on the theme, ‘Building a Solid Foundation for Career Success,’ Badiru emphasized the transformation of talents into competencies that align with current and future industry demands, highlighting the significance of defining clear professional goals and aspirations.