At a recent event organized by the Centre for Entrepreneurship Development at Moshood Abiola Polytechnic in Abeokuta, Mr. Seleem Adegunwa, the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Rite Foods, delivered a compelling message to the youth, advocating for the importance of entrepreneurship in tackling unemployment and enhancing the value of education. His assertion centered around the idea that national prosperity and job creation are intrinsically linked to the development of entrepreneurial skills, which can address existing challenges in society. This emphasizes the critical need for young individuals to engage in entrepreneurial practices, thus creating opportunities not only for themselves but also for their communities.
Adegunwa’s speech, delivered through Mr. Innocent Adulugba, the Corporate Communications Manager of Rite Foods, highlighted that the acquisition of industry-specific skills is essential for Nigerian youths in addition to their formal educational certificates. He articulated that the current economic climate, fraught with unemployment issues, can be positively affected through entrepreneurial endeavors. He encouraged the youth to exploit their innovative potential and practical skills to foster creativity, suggesting that entrepreneurship serves as the foundation for a thriving economy. This call to action underscores the necessity for a mindset shift among Nigerian youth, urging them to consider entrepreneurship as a viable career path.
The gathering not only recognized the achievements of outstanding entrepreneurs but also aimed to bridge the gap between the institution’s alumni and current students. This initiative, discussed by the Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, Mr. Olufemi Orunsola, emphasizes the mutual benefits of networking and mentorship. By connecting former students who have established successful careers with current entrepreneurship students, the event sought to provide guidance and inspiration. Such interaction can be instrumental in fostering a supportive environment that cultivates new ideas and entrepreneurial ventures, ultimately enhancing the overall community.
Various participants, including members of the Ojere Igbayen Social Club, shared their insights on the significance of the event. Abdul-Hafeez Atanda-Shoremi, representing the 1997 alumni set, expressed a profound sense of pride and nostalgia regarding the recognition granted to former students by their alma mater. He strongly encouraged current students to embrace the entrepreneurial spirit cultivated by the institution, positing it as a key pathway to achieving a fulfilling and prosperous life. His statements resonate with the overarching goal of the ceremony—motivating the younger generation to take bold steps toward entrepreneurship as a career choice.
Recognizing the practical application of entrepreneurial education, Mr. Akeem Salami, the CEO of Mobile Classroom Limited, showcased innovative virtual testing methods at the event. By conducting a live demonstration, Salami highlighted the importance of technology in enhancing educational experiences and indicated how such innovations can serve entrepreneurial ventures in the digital age. His participation underlines the significance of not only acquiring knowledge but also applying it in real-world contexts, thus preparing students for the demands of contemporary business landscapes.
In summary, the event organized by the Centre for Entrepreneurship Development at Moshood Abiola Polytechnic served as a pivotal platform for advocating the importance of entrepreneurship among Nigerian youths. Adegunwa’s message emphasized the need for skill development alongside formal education in addressing unemployment challenges. The collaborative efforts of alumni and current students, bolstered by live demonstrations of modern business practices, illustrated a comprehensive strategy to inspire future entrepreneurs. This collective endeavor aims to instill a sense of ambition and innovation, ensuring that the next generation is well-equipped to drive economic growth through entrepreneurship.
