The Michael Imoudu National Institute for Labour Studies (MINILS), Ilorin, on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, held its second matriculation ceremony for its Bachelor’s Degree Programme in Industrial Relations and Personnel Management .
The event marked another milestone in the Institute’s academic programme run in affiliation with the University of Ilorin.
In his welcome address, the Acting Director-General/Chief Executive of the Institute, Mr. Ezekiel Ayorinde, described the occasion as a significant chapter in the Institute’s development.
The Ag. DG emphasized that the degree programme not only offers students the opportunity to contribute meaningfully as future workers, but also aims to produce high-quality professionals with a deep understanding of the theories that underpin trade unionism and industrial relations which are essential tools for national development.
While noting that the matriculants represent the future of the country and a reference point towards its industrialization and economic development, Mr Ayorinde charged the students to be diligent towards achieving their aspirations and building a better life for their future.
Delivering the matriculation address on behalf of the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Egbewole, the Director of the Centre for Affiliated Institutions, Prof. Yahaya Imam, urged the students to take their studies seriously and avoid any conduct that could jeopardize their academic journey.
He cautioned against examination malpractice, overreliance on Artificial Intelligence tools, and indecent dressing, warning that such infractions carry severe penalties that could hinder their academic progress.
Earlier in a welcome address, the Director and Head of the Academic and Distance Learning Programme Department, Dr. Sylvanus S. Adamade, described the event as a sign of MINILS’ growing status as a premier centre for workers’ education.
Dr Adamade disclosed that 20 pioneer students with various classes of degree from the programme graduated in November 2024, describing the feat as an eloquent testimony of the overall progress the Insititute has made to impact Nigeria’s Industrial Relations landscape.
He further underscored the strategic direction the Institute is taking to collaborate with labour education stakeholders as one that offers the student unique opportunities to excel in their career, and urged them to take full advantage of the opportunity to pursue academic and professional excellence.