As Federal Polytechnic Ilaro Becomes FUTI, Management Upskills Lecturers on Effective Teaching and Classroom Management

The Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, now Federal University of Technology Ilaro, has reaffirmed its commitment to academic excellence with the successful organisation of an intensive capacity-building programme for academic staff on modern pedagogy, effective teaching strategies, and classroom management.

The training, which held on Tuesday, 13 January 2026, was organised by the Directorate of Training and Development under the UNESCO–NBTE Centre and took place at the Raheem Oloyo International Conference Centre within the institution. The programme was designed to enhance instructional quality, improve student learning outcomes, and align teaching practices with global best standards in higher education.

In his opening address, the Rector, Dr. Mukail Aremu Akinde, FCA, FCIT, ACIS, charged academic staff, particularly newly recruited lecturers, to demonstrate total commitment to their responsibilities and uphold the institution’s long-standing culture of excellence. He emphasized that professionalism, discipline, and dedication remain non-negotiable standards within the institution.

The Rector warned against complacency and poor work ethics, noting that the institution would not condone laxity or lackadaisical attitudes. He stated that appropriate sanctions await any staff member who fails to meet expected academic and professional standards. At the same time, he highlighted that the institution operates a robust reward system that recognizes and celebrates outstanding performance, innovation, and dedication to duty.

The first sessions of the training were facilitated by Prof. Lanre Adepoju of Obafemi Awolowo University, who delivered a comprehensive presentation on effective lesson planning and delivery strategies. He emphasized the importance of structured lesson design, clarity of learning objectives, and purposeful content delivery in improving student comprehension and engagement.

Prof. Adepoju later facilitated a second session on interactive and participatory teaching methods, where he underscored the need for learner-centered approaches. He encouraged lecturers to adopt teaching methods that promote active student participation, critical thinking, collaboration, and long-term knowledge retention.

Another key facilitator, Dr. Mrs. O. E. Oduntan of the Federal Polytechnic Ilaro, delivered an insightful presentation on managing classroom dynamics and maintaining a conducive learning environment. She explained that classroom management goes beyond discipline, describing it as a silent curriculum that shapes students’ attitudes, behavior, motivation, and overall learning experience.

In her second presentation, she focused on the assessment of students’ learning outcomes and constructive feedback mechanisms. She highlighted how timely, clear, and developmental feedback enhances academic performance, supports continuous improvement, and strengthens the teaching and learning process.

Earlier in his remarks, the outgoing Acting Director of Training and Development, Dr. Olasunkanmi Olapeju, expressed appreciation to the institution’s management for its consistent support and forward-thinking approach to academic development. He noted that the training would significantly improve instructional delivery and reinforce quality assurance in teaching across faculties and departments.

The programme attracted wide participation, with members of the institution’s management, Deans, Directors, and a large number of academic staff in attendance. Participants described the training as timely and impactful, especially as the institution transitions into a full-fledged university of technology.

The training stands as a clear demonstration of FUTI’s proactive investment in staff development, academic excellence, and quality education delivery, ensuring that students benefit from inclusive, innovative, and globally competitive teaching practices.