ITF Orientates NOUN Students on SIWES at Port Harcourt Study Centre

The Industrial Training Fund (ITF) has conducted an orientation programme for students of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Port Harcourt Study Centre, participating in the Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES).

The orientation, held on Wednesday, August 20, 2026, at the Port Harcourt Study Centre Auditorium, was aimed at acquainting the students with the objectives, requirements and expectations of the SIWES programme, as well as adequately preparing them for their industrial training experience.

The ITF officials, Mr. Ogbonna Odiniruka and Mr. Major Obinna, were received by the Centre Director, Port Harcourt Study Centre, Dr. Theresa Ucheoma Ettu, in her office before the commencement of the programme.

Dr. Ettu subsequently introduced the ITF officials to the students and delivered the opening remarks, welcoming the representatives of the Fund to the Study Centre.

She underscored the importance of SIWES in equipping students with practical workplace experience and complementing the theoretical knowledge acquired through their academic programmes.

The ITF representatives thereafter engaged the students in an interactive session, providing insights into the objectives and procedures of the SIWES programme, students' responsibilities and other relevant aspects of industrial training.

The orientation, which lasted for more than two hours, also featured an extensive question-and-answer session.

The students took advantage of the opportunity to seek clarification on various issues relating to their participation in the programme, while the ITF officials provided explanations and guidance.

At the end of the programme, the students and staff of the centre expressed appreciation to the ITF officials for what they described as an informative and enlightening session.

They commended the officials for their engagement with the students and expressed hope that similar orientation programmes would be organised in the future.

The SIWES programme is expected to provide participating students with valuable practical exposure and enhance their readiness for the world of work by bridging the gap between academic learning and workplace experience.