In a recent address at the graduation ceremony for the Next Gen Ideate (NGI) programme in Ibadan, Professor Abiodun Bankole of the University of Ibadan has strongly contested the prevailing notion that Nigerian graduates are unemployable. He asserts that the onus lies with employers who have neglected their responsibility to provide adequate training for new hires.

Speaking at the event organized by the Forerunners Welfare Foundation (FWF), Prof. Bankole, who previously served as the Dean of the Faculty of Economics and Management Sciences, emphasized that many Nigerian graduates excel in international settings, which he believes highlights the flaws in the local employment system rather than the capabilities of the graduates themselves.

"The onus is on businesses to train fresh graduates before you give them assignments in your companies," he stated, pointing out that it is contradictory for employers to label graduates as unfit while failing to invest in their development. He argued that the narrative of unemployability ignores the broader context of employer expectations and the lack of training provided to graduates.

Prof. Bankole also noted that the success of Nigerian graduates abroad serves as a testament to their potential, suggesting that the barriers they face at home are not reflective of their abilities. "The condemned Nigerian-trained graduates do excel when they travel overseas. That is where I see their failure, trying to cover their failings," he remarked.

In addition to addressing the issue of employability, Prof. Bankole encouraged the graduating students to seek internships before completing their degrees. He advised them against the expectation of immediately stepping into senior roles upon graduation, emphasizing the importance of gaining practical experience.

The graduation ceremony saw 22 students complete the NGI programme, which aims to equip young minds with the skills necessary to thrive in today's competitive job market. Dr. Ibrahim Hammed, Chairman of the FWF, praised the graduates for their resilience and dedication, stating they had undergone rigorous training to meet high standards.

Keynote speakers at the event included legal practitioner Abdurrahman Abiola Ahmad, who urged graduates to cultivate relationships and seize opportunities despite challenges, and Engineer Ibrahim Ande, who highlighted the significance of soft skills in navigating the workplace.

The FWF was established by Muslim graduates of the University of Ibadan to support less-privileged students and younger alumni, reflecting a commitment to enhancing educational opportunities and professional development for future generations. The event also featured notable attendees, including the General Secretary of the Oyo State Muslim Community, Prof. Taofeeq Yekinni, and the National President of the University of Ibadan Muslim Graduate Association, Alhajj Imran Abulmojeed.