The Alumni Connectivity and Philanthropy Department of Babcock University has organised a career development session for members of the institution’s Nova Undergraduate Class of 2026, bringing together accomplished alumni and industry professionals to prepare graduating students for the realities of the workplace.
The programme, held as part of activities marking the university’s 2026 graduation ceremonies, focused on equipping students with practical employability skills, career guidance and professional networking opportunities.
Speaking on the objective of the initiative, the Associate Vice President, Alumni Connectivity and Philanthropy, Dr Jonathan Dangana, said the university’s Career Services Unit was driving a partnership designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and workplace expectations.
According to him, the initiative seeks to expose students to real-life recruitment processes by providing direct interaction with professionals who regularly conduct employment interviews.
“It is not enough that you read and hear. We brought the interview session here. We brought professionals who would have interviewed you to sit down, listen, correct you and show you how things are done,” he said.
Dangana explained that the university’s goal is to produce graduates who are not only academically sound but also equipped with the practical skills and confidence required to secure employment and excel in their careers.
“Our flagship desire is to have Babcock students not just mentally prepared but ready for action. When you get there, you will work with confidence. Getting into the interview room is one thing; finishing the job and landing the job is what matters,” he added.
He encouraged graduating students to take advantage of the mentorship opportunity by interacting with the speakers and building professional networks, while urging undergraduates to participate in similar preparatory programmes organised by the alumni office.
“Reach out to the Alumni Office. We are always ready to help open doors and create the right connections for you,” he said.
The guest speakers shared practical advice on succeeding in today’s competitive job market.
Actor, film producer and talent manager Heavens Obule urged the students to maximise their time at the university by building meaningful relationships, developing their creativity and believing in their abilities.
“Think outside the box. God has given you the spirit of a sound mind, confidence and courage,” he said.
Chief Executive Officer and Founder of UVES, Dr Philip Babalola, stressed that employers increasingly value confidence, adaptability and technological competence alongside academic qualifications.
“Confidence will open more doors for you than intelligence. The world rewards the courageous. Learn to integrate tools like artificial intelligence into your work. You are still in control,” he advised.
Human resources practitioner Oluwadunsin Alaba encouraged the graduating students to prepare thoroughly for job interviews by researching prospective employers, understanding their curriculum vitae and presenting themselves professionally.
“Prepare, stay true to your strategy and put your best into everything you do,” he said.
Also speaking, the President of the Postgraduate Nova Class and Founder of the Girls in Charge Foundation urged the graduates to remain prayerful, humble, bold and courageous as they begin the next phase of their lives.
Speaking on behalf of the graduating class, Executive President of the Nova Class of 2026, Miss Damilola Obadan, described the session as timely and impactful.
She said the programme exposed students to practical workplace expectations, career opportunities and professional etiquette.
“They have shown us where to go, what not to do and what to do. I hope we will all make the best use of these lessons as we prepare for the world of work,” she said.