AUST Holds 2026 SIWES Orientation Programme, Prepares Students for Industrial Training.
The African University of Science and Technology (AUST) held its 2026 Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) Orientation Programme on Friday, 30th January 2026.
The event which took place at the Raw Materials and Research Development Council Hall, African University of Science and Technology, (AUST), attracted students, faculty and members of the AUST community.
In his opening address , the President of AUST, Prof. Azikiwe Peter Onwualu, FAS, President of AUST, advised the students to rethink traditional employment paths.
He explained that waiting for paid jobs is no longer enough and urged students to embrace entrepreneurship and innovation.
Prof. Onwualu highlighted that SIWES offers a vital link between classroom learning and professional practice, helping students build networks, gain mentorship, and generate ideas for final-year projects.
He also stressed the value of project-based learning, noting that tackling real-world problems during industrial training fosters creativity and industry readiness.
In his remarks, Dr. Vitalis Anye, Dean, School of Engineering, stressed on the needs for students to critically understand the importance of the SIWES program.
He also charged the students to follow the guidelines while remaining ethical. He warned strongly against falsifying SIWES logbooks, explaining that honesty and active participation are critical to gaining genuine industry experience and developing professional competence, also stressing that they become ambassadors of AUST at whatever organization they serve.
Taking the orientation ceremony further, Mrs. Favour Nwogu, AUST’s Guidance and Counselor, spoke on career alignment as a foundation for long-term success. She advised students to choose paths that align with their skills, values, and interests, emphasizing that competence alone is insufficient. Mrs. Nwogwu highlighted the importance of attitude, discipline, professional etiquette, and work ethics—including proper dress, punctuality, conflict management, and respectful communication—as factors that distinguish successful professionals.
Dr. Gloria Ekaette, Assistant Coordinator SIWES, then expanded on the changing dynamics of the job market, showing how the combination of technical, digital, and human-centered skills is now critical. She explained that employers value digital literacy, communication, teamwork, and adaptability, while trends like digital transformation and sustainability are reshaping industries. Dr. Ekaette emphasized that SIWES is not just a training requirement but a platform for building confidence, networking, and discovering career interests.
The orientation also featured orientation session anchored by the Acting Vice President, Academic, Dr. Abdulhakeem Bello, Dr. Odette Ngasoh, Coordinator, Chemistry Unit; Mr. Daniel Israel, MD/CEO, Build2Spec Nig. Ltd; and Mr. Kingsley Ogwudu, AUSTInspire Hub Manager, who together reinforced the over-reaching message of preparation and the essence of the Industrial Training Program.
Questions on the possibility of running the IT training in foreign countries and possibly remotely were raised by students. And Prof. Onwualu responded, saying, ‘Running the industrial training outside of Nigeria is very possible, however supervision will still be carried out because AUST has networks in foreign countries.’ He also added that running the IT program remotely is welcomed, and students can apply when they get such opportunity.
Engr. Dr. Amonye, SIWES Coordinador, wrapped up the orientation by summarizing the key points of all speakers, reminding students to view SIWES as a stepping stone toward self-reliance, practical knowledge, and global competitiveness. The event was drawn to a close with a group photograph of all faculties and students present.