Preparing professionals with practical, future-focused skills remains at the heart of the African University of Science and Technology’s mission in advancing lifelong learning and capacity development.

In furtherance of this commitment, the University’s Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Unit successfully concluded four professional certificate programmes in Project Management, Construction Management, Resource Mobilisation,Grantsmanship and Grant Management, and the Creator’s Shoe Certificate Course (A Creative Masterclass in Content Creation).

Addressing participants during the various programmes, the President of AUST, Professor Peter Azikiwe Onwualu, FAS, underscored the importance of continuous learning, collaboration, and professional networking, noting that “expertise and competence should always be valued above hierarchy.” He encouraged participants to apply the knowledge acquired in their workplaces and remain committed to lifelong learning.

The programmes equipped participants with practical, industry-relevant skills in project delivery, construction management, grant acquisition and administration, as well as digital content creation, videography, video editing, storytelling, and the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the creative industry. The training combined interactive lectures with hands on practical sessions, capstone projects, field visits, and final assessments to enhance participants’ professional competence.

The CPD Coordinator, Dr Prisca Nneka Onuoha, also introduced participants to other Continuing Professional Development opportunities at AUST, including programmes in Agribusiness, Coding and Robotics, Cisco Certification, and other specialised courses, while encouraging them to continue investing in lifelong learning.

Participants praised the quality of instruction, the practical approach of the facilitators, and the valuable networking opportunities provided throughout the programmes. Graduates of the Construction Management course also received tuition discounts on eligible AUST PhD and CPD programmes, while participants in the Creator’s Shoe Masterclass demonstrated their newly acquired skills through practical video production projects.

The successful completion of the four programmes further reflects AUST’s commitment to delivering industry driven professional development initiatives that equip individuals with the knowledge, practical skills, and innovative mindset required to excel in today’s rapidly evolving world.