The Staff Training and Development Unit of the University of Lagos (ST&DU, UNILAG) has commenced a seven-day capacity-building programme for members of staff recommended for conversion to the Administrative, Executive, and Technical cadres.
The programme, themed: Filling the Gaps, Boosting Capacity, began with an Opening Session on Monday, March 9, 2026, at the Faculty of Life Sciences Boardroom, UNILAG, Akoka.
Designed to enhance participants’ professional competence and deepen their understanding of workplace responsibilities as they transition into new roles, the programme features two days of classroom sessions followed by four days of job shadowing and departmental immersion across relevant units of the University.
Orientation for Participants
Welcoming participants to the programme, Director of ST&DU, UNILAG, Mrs. Aderonke Asiwaju, explained that the classroom training would run for two days before participants proceed to job-shadowing assignments in various University departments from March 11 to March 16, 2026.
She added that participants will re-convene at the Faculty of Life Sciences Boardroom after the immersion exercise for assessment and testing. Based on their performance, University Management will determine those to be invited for the final interview stage.
Mrs. Asiwaju encouraged participants to take full advantage of the opportunity and wished them a productive and rewarding learning experience.
Conversion Programme Enters Second Phase
In his remarks, the Deputy Registrar, Human Resources Management Directorate (HRMD, UNILAG), Mr. Afolabi Yusuf, noted that the training marks the second phase of the staff conversion process for selected members of staff.
According to him, the programme is designed to assess participants’ competence, professionalism, and readiness for the responsibilities associated with their prospective roles. He therefore urged participants to approach the training with seriousness, dedication, and a commitment to professional growth.
Session on Professionalism and Workplace Ethics
The training programme commenced with a presentation on Professionalism, Work Ethics and Workplace Attitude, facilitated by the Director of Property Development and Investment (PDI), Mrs. Yetunde Ogunlewe.
During the session, Mrs. Ogunlewe enlightened participants on the principles of professionalism across various fields of work. Her presentation addressed key topics including the features of professionalism, elements of work ethics, attitudinal change, workplace conduct, and strategies for addressing negative workplace attitudes.
She emphasised the importance of fostering a conducive work environment and upholding civic responsibility in the discharge of duties. According to her, professionalism in the workplace is reflected through productivity, efficiency, teamwork, responsibility, transparency, and fairness.
Mrs. Ogunlewe also outlined core competencies required of professional employees, including effective communication, ICT proficiency, record-keeping, teamwork, and report writing. She further highlighted expected workplace behaviours such as punctuality, regularity, accountability, and compliance with institutional regulations, noting that these qualities are essential for achieving organisational objectives.
Programme Highlights
Other sessions scheduled for the training programme include:
- Competency-Based Interviewing Skills – Mr. Afolabi Yusuf, Deputy Registrar, HRMD
- Navigating Role Transitions: Mastering the Shift to New Responsibilities – Mrs. Toyin Owootori, Principal Assistant Registrar, Council Affairs
- Building Relationships and Interpersonal Skills – Mrs. Janet Aregbesola, Principal Assistant Registrar, Counselling Unit
- Effective Communication in the Workplace – Mr. Seyi Sanya, Principal Assistant Registrar, Council Affairs
- Enhancing Job Roles with Digital Literacy and Artificial Intelligence – Mr. Abiodun Olatubosun, ABS-CITS
Commitment to Excellence
The training initiative reflects the University’s commitment to strengthening institutional capacity by equipping staff with the knowledge, skills, and professional orientation required to thrive in their new roles. Through a blend of structured learning and practical workplace exposure, the programme aims to prepare participants for higher responsibilities while supporting the continued pursuit of excellence at the University of Lagos.
Report: Oluwatoyin Ojo-Alo
Photogaph: Samuel Dosumu
