Today, the 14th August 2024, the Department of Food Science and Technology at Ebonyi State University hosts its annual Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) defense, marking a significant milestone in the academic journey of her 4th year students. The event, which took place at CAS campus, the mother faculty the Ebonyi university, saw students presenting their practical experiences gained during their six months industrial attachments to a panel of academic staff and industry experts.The SIWES program is a critical component of the students’ education, offering them the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in various sectors of the food industry, including food processing, quality control, and research and development. The defense serves as a platform for students to showcase their ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges, a key indicator of their readiness to enter the professional world.During the defense, students detailed their work experiences, highlighting the skills they acquired and the challenges they encountered while working in different food science and technology companies and industries. Many of the students shared innovative solutions they developed to tackle practical issues in their workplaces, reflecting the high level of training they received at the university.
One of the standout presentations came from Ekene Mathew, who completed his industrial training at Ebony Agro industry limited. While speaking, he impressed the panel with his project on modern Rice processing which he successfully implemented during his attachment. His presentation was praised for it’s depth of research and practical application, demonstrating the potential impact of his work on the industry.
Prof. Mrs Helen A. Joshua, Head of the Department of Food Science and Technology, commended the students for their dedication and professionalism during their industrial training. “The SIWES defense is not just an academic exercise; it’s a testament to the quality of education our students receive and their ability to contribute meaningfully to the food science industry,” She also emphasized the importance of practical experience in complementing academic knowledge,noting that the department remains committed to producing well-rounded graduates equipped to meet the demands of the industry.
Other lecturers who attended the defense expressed their admiration for the students’ work, noting that the level of innovation and problem-solving skills displayed was highly commendable.
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