The University of Ibadan is set to host its 3rd SME Fair, themed ‘Beyond Borders’, on November 1st-2nd. This event is part of the university’s 75th-anniversary celebrations and aims to foster collaboration between academia and industry.
Associate Professor Ruth Adio-Moses, the Convener of the Fair, highlighted its purpose: “The aim of the Fair is to bring the gown and town together and it is meant to expose our students to entrepreneurial development and strategic partnership.” The Fair will provide opportunities for product advertisement, promotion, networking, workshops, panel discussions, pitch competitions, and much more.
Professor Adio-Moses called on Nigerians, organizations, and the Oyo State government to join hands with the University of Ibadan in sponsoring the Fair, making it accessible to all participants. She emphasized that the Fair is a platform for innovation and urged collective support to ensure its success.
Mr. Fasola, a member of the 3rd SME Fair Committee, highlighted the transformative potential of SMEs. He emphasized that many ingenious ideas from students and lecturers can be harnessed for societal benefit. The university envisions an Innovative Hub where concepts can be developed, and industries can seek solutions through collaborative research.
Mrs. Okutinyang of BLG Events, the Consultant for the 3rd SME Fair, encouraged sponsorship for this significant project. She added, “There will be entrepreneurs who will share their success stories for others to learn from. Aside from the sessions, there will be fun, music and a whole lot of activities.”
The SME Fair promises a dynamic platform for knowledge exchange, innovation, and business development, uniting academia, industry experts, and entrepreneurs for fruitful collaboration.
