By Idris Umar, Zaria The Department of Polymer and Chemical Technology at the National Institute for Leather Science and Technol...
By Idris Umar, Zaria
The Department of Polymer and Chemical Technology at the National Institute for Leather Science and Technology (NILEST), Zaria, has organised a one-day educational seminar aimed at promoting awareness and understanding of Polymer and Chemical Technology among students.
The seminar, held at the institution’s Central Library, attracted newly admitted students as well as participants from 10 secondary schools across Sabon Gari Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
During the event, experts from various departments of the institute delivered presentations on practical and industrial training opportunities, modern laboratories and learning facilities, entrepreneurship and innovation programmes, Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) opportunities, and the availability of qualified lecturers and technical experts.
Speaking at the seminar, the Head of the Chemical Engineering Technology Department, Engr. Dr. Mrs. Bukola Patrick, described Chemical Engineering Technology as a practical and industry-driven field that applies scientific and engineering principles in the production and processing of chemicals and industrial products.
According to her, students enrolled in the programme are trained in chemical processing, laboratory techniques, industrial operations, quality control, petrochemical processes, safety procedures, and production technologies used across various industries.
Also speaking, the Head of the Polymer Technology Department, Dr. Abdul-Wahabb, highlighted the numerous career opportunities available in Polymer Technology and encouraged students to remain committed to their studies despite academic challenges.
Presenters at the seminar explained that graduates of Polymer Technology can pursue careers in the plastics and rubber industries, petrochemical companies, paint and adhesive production, recycling and waste-to-wealth ventures, research laboratories, manufacturing industries, and advanced materials innovation.
Some participating students expressed excitement over the knowledge gained during the seminar and pledged to pursue careers in polymer-related fields.
A teacher from Government Girls Secondary School, Samaru, identified simply as Amina, commended the initiative and urged more secondary schools to participate in similar programmes.
A lecturer at NILEST, Umar Muhammad Hamis, stressed the importance of polymer education in national development, noting that the participation of secondary school students was intended to expose them to the global relevance of polymer science and technology.
The President of the institution’s student body, Muhammad Tijjani, urged students to remain dedicated to their academic pursuits in order to contribute meaningfully to the development of Nigeria and the global community.
In his remarks, the Director of the Directorate of Polymer and Chemical Technology, Dr. Oboh Johnson, explained that Polymer Technology focuses on the study and application of materials such as plastics, rubber, fibres, and resins widely used in modern industries.
He added that students are exposed to practical training in plastic processing, rubber technology, paint production, foam production, recycling technologies, and industrial material development.
The seminar concluded successfully with participants commending the initiative as timely and impactful.
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