UNILAG deepens entrepreneurial learning  for freshers 

Speaking during the opening session, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Development Services), Prof.  Foluso Ebun Afolabi Lesi, emphasised the urgency of addressing Nigeria’s growing unemployment challenge.

According to him, one of the country’s most pressing concerns is the rising number of unemployed graduates despite the steady output of tertiary institutions. He noted that stakeholders have repeatedly expressed concern about the widening gap between the number of graduates produced annually and the employment opportunities available.

Within this context, he explained, the University is deliberately positioning entrepreneurship education as a practical instrument for change, encouraging students to think beyond traditional employment pathways and explore opportunities in enterprise creation and innovation.

On the second day of the programme, the Vice Chancellor Prof.  Folasade  Ogunsola encouraged students to cultivate adaptability and commitment to lifelong learning as they prepare to navigate an ever-changing world.

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Addressing participants on Tuesday, March 3,  Prof. Ogunsola urged the newly admitted students to embrace the challenge of acquiring new skills that will enable them remain relevant in an increasingly dynamic global environment.

She drew attention to Nigeria’s vast youth population, observing that nearly two million of them are currently enrolled in tertiary institutions. Many of these graduates, she noted, may face limited employment opportunities upon graduation. In light of this reality, she emphasised that entrepreneurship and job creation must increasingly become viable pathways for young people.

According to her, the prevailing socio-economic landscape leaves little room for individuals who are unwilling to adapt, innovate or contribute meaningfully to societal transformation. She therefore encouraged students to take full advantage of the numerous opportunities available within the university to broaden their competencies and sharpen their entrepreneurial mindset.

"Whether you dream of launching a tech start-up or building a small business, this programme will provide you with the support and guidance you need.”

The Vice Chancellor also highlighted the institution’s commitment to expanding platforms that promote learning, innovation and enterprise development among students. Through initiatives coordinated by the ESDC, she added that the university continues to develop programmes and partnerships that support skill acquisition, innovation and business incubation.

Prof.Ogunsola also expressed appreciation to corporate partners and stakeholders supporting the initiative for helping the University expose students to real-world business experiences.

 Director of the ESDC, Prof. Sunday Adebisi, underscored the critical importance of entrepreneurship education in a country with a rapidly growing youth population.

He described Nigeria as a nation with enormous potential for innovation and start-up growth, driven by its vibrant culture, creative talent and expanding digital economy.

However, he pointed out that while universities continue to produce highly skilled graduates, a noticeable gap still exists between academic education and the practical competencies required to successfully build and sustain a business venture.

Programmes such as EIBIC and other entrepreneurship initiatives within the school, he noted, are designed to bridge this gap by exposing students early to entrepreneurial thinking, innovation and real-world problem-solving.