MTU Geosciences Connects Students with Industry Titans
In its continued commitment to producing industry-ready graduates and fostering meaningful collaborations between academia and the professional world, the Department of Geosciences, Mountain Top University (MTU), recently hosted a high-impact professional webinar designed to expose students to emerging trends, opportunities, and expectations within the geosciences industry.
The event took place on Wednesday, 27 May 2026, at the College of Basic and Applied Sciences Conference Room and brought together professionals, industry leaders, and academics who shared invaluable insights aimed at equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and mindset required to excel in today’s competitive global marketplace.
Among the eminent personalities in attendance were the Vice-Chancellor of Mountain Top University, Professor Elijah Ayolabi, a prolific Professor of Applied Geophysics; Dr Jude Nwaulune, Chief Executive Officer of Eternal PLC; Mrs Olajumoke Ajayi, President of the National Association of Petroleum Explorationists (NAPE); Mr Festus Ololade Jesulana, Chief Executive Officer of Jesulana Engineering International Limited; and Mr Tim Peterson, President of the Nampet Group of Companies.
Delivering his opening address, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Elijah Ayolabi, expressed profound appreciation to the guest speakers and facilitators for their dedication to mentoring future professionals and contributing significantly to the advancement of geosciences education and practice. He reiterated the University’s unwavering commitment to producing graduates who possess not only academic excellence but also the practical competencies, innovative mindset, and professional ethics necessary for success in the workplace.
Professor Ayolabi emphasised that Mountain Top University was established to prepare students for life beyond the classroom by providing them with opportunities for industry engagement, experiential learning, and career development. He noted that strategic interactions with accomplished professionals enable students to gain first-hand knowledge of industry realities and emerging career opportunities.
The webinar featured insightful presentations and interactive sessions during which the speakers highlighted the critical competencies sought after by employers in today’s rapidly evolving professional environment. According to the industry experts, academic qualifications must be complemented by essential soft and technical skills to ensure long-term career success.
The speakers identified critical thinking, technological proficiency, innovation, technical competence, effective communication, teamwork, leadership ability, adaptability, emotional intelligence, and problem-solving skills as indispensable attributes for aspiring professionals. They encouraged students to embrace continuous learning and personal development to remain relevant and competitive in an increasingly dynamic industry.
Furthermore, the facilitators stressed that success is fundamentally driven by determination, discipline, resilience, and a strong commitment to excellence. They challenged students to cultivate a growth mindset and to remain focused on their career aspirations despite prevailing challenges and uncertainties. According to the speakers, individuals who consistently invest the required effort, energy, and dedication into their personal and professional development are more likely to achieve exceptional results.
A major highlight of the event was the presentation of educational resources to the Department of Geosciences by the National Association of Petroleum Explorationists (NAPE). The association donated a collection of books as part of its commitment to enriching the department with materials.
In another significant moment during the programme, Professor Elijah Ayolabi was honoured with a Special 25th Anniversary Certificate of Membership by NAPE. The prestigious recognition was presented by the President of the Association, Mrs Olajumoke Ajayi, in acknowledgement of his enduring contributions to the profession.
The event also featured a gesture of encouragement towards the students. In recognition of their enthusiasm, participation, and commitment to learning, Mr Festus Ololade Jesulana presented cash gifts to all students in attendance.
The webinar concluded on a highly successful note. Students left the programme with enhanced knowledge of industry expectations, valuable professional insights, and a renewed determination to pursue impactful and rewarding careers in the geosciences sector.