According to the founder of Topfaith University in Akwa Ibom State, Emmanuel Abraham, entrepreneurship Education in Nigerian universities can play a crucial role in combating the increasing Unemployment rate among graduates. The National Universities Commission (NUC) approved the establishment of Topfaith University in Mkpatak, Akwa Ibom State, three years ago, signalling a new era of educational opportunities in the region. During the tour of the University facilities, Abraham mentioned that the university, established as part of the Topfaith schools network, includes the Nursery/Primary, Secondary, and the newly introduced University.
With its inception just two years ago, the university aims to equip students with the skills needed to adapt to the changing landscape of education on a global scale. The institution has a range of facilities that were inspected, such as a peaceful library, Law Faculty, and fully equipped workshops for Civil, Mechanical, and Electrical Mechatronics Engineering. There are also facilities for Computer Science, Mass Communication Studio, and Science Laboratories. Additionally, there are Skill development centres like Standard Carpentry Workshops, Bakeries, and Electrical shops where students can learn about wiring and electrical installations.
Essential skills will set graduates apart from their peers.
As an economist, he highlighted the importance of entrepreneurial skills for university students, emphasising that they set them apart from their peers. He noted that the university prioritizes mindset and the ability to identify business opportunities, making it distinct in this regard. Abraham also mentioned the university’s focus on instilling moral values alongside entrepreneurship to ensure that graduates contribute positively to society. He believed that the decline in moral standards within society could be linked to insufficiently developed graduates who prioritise obtaining degrees over cultivating ethical principles.
Patrick Ebeowo, the Vice Chancellor of the University, expressed confidence in the institution’s ability to maintain its reputation as a leading educational hub in the South-South region. With top-notch facilities and a strong academic team, Ebeowo highlighted Topfaith University’s commitment to putting an end to the trend of seeking education abroad. He shared how his experience in Kenya prepared him for his role as Vice Chancellor back in Nigeria. In 2021, they received official approval from the Federal Executive Council. Their license was granted by the National Universities Commission (NUC) in April of that same year.
There are over 500 undergraduates across five Faculties and 24 Departments.
Without delay, they took action. Despite suggestions to wait, they proceeded with academic activities immediately after receiving their license, he remarked. Ebeowo disclosed that the university began with 177 students and has since grown to more than 500 undergraduates across five Faculties and 24 departments of studies, each offering a variety of courses. In two to three years, they have high hopes of being able to offer a formal Medicine and Surgery program. It’s important for the group to understand that the university is not like the private ones.
The reason for his presence here is to introduce something unique. Every Sunday, they offer a special program for their students called Leadership and Moral Education. This program aims to inspire students to consider how they can positively impact society upon graduation. Their institution is not solely focused on awarding certificates after several years of coursework; it is also dedicated to nurturing future leaders with a strong moral compass. Character is their main focus, and they are eager to improve their community. Their inaugural graduation is expected to take place next year, he announced.
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Lack of entrepreneurship skills can lead to unemployment as individuals may struggle to create their own opportunities and be reliant on traditional job markets. Without the ability to identify and pursue innovative business ideas, individuals may find themselves stuck in low-paying or unstable jobs. This lack of these skills can limit an individual’s ability to adapt to changing economic conditions and may lead to long-term frustration. Individuals may also struggle to navigate the complexities of starting and running a successful business. This can result in high failure rates for new ventures, leaving individuals without a stable source of income and contributing to overall unemployment rates.