FUPRE RECOGNISES SYLVESTER EBHONU’S COMMITMENT TO MENTORSHIP
Just last week (11th March, 2025), I had the privilege of speaking at the Federal University of Petroleum Resources (FUPRE) Alumni Career Training, organized by the Center for Career Services. The event aimed to equip graduates with basic career skills and strategies to thrive in today’s competitive job market. Few days after my presentation, at FUPRE’s 4th Convocation Ceremony, I was informed by one of the Chief Public Relations Officers of the institution – Mr. Isaac Ogbrah, that I had been presented an “Outstanding Career Mentorship Award.”
Being invited as Guest Speaker at FUPRE was already an honour. It was fulfilling for me, engaging with the brilliant minds in attendance, and their eagerness to learn justified the need for more of such programmes in Universities to bridge the gap between academia and workplaces. At the training, I shared my career metamorphosis model and other insights on leveraging digital tools, personal branding to survive today’s economy.
It’s remarkable to think that just two months ago, in January, I was also invited by the Dean of Student Affairs, Prof. (Mrs.) Chinelo A. Nwokolo, as a speaker at FUPRE’s 2024/2025 Orientation Programme for Freshers where I addressed students on the topic Responsible AI Usage in Undergraduate Studies. FUPRE’s commitment to promoting career readiness and digital literacy is truly commendable.
When I received the award, it was more than just a plaque; to me I saw a symbol of shared success and I am grateful to the Vice Chancellor Engr. Prof. Akpofureh Rim-Rukeh. This recognition is more than a personal milestone and I’d like to dedicate it to everyone out there who believes that people are gifts from God. THIS, is for all of us and THIS, is encouragement for us to keep UPSKILLING. Institutions like FUPRE, Admiralty Univerisity of Nigeria (ADUN) and few other institutions are setting the pace on what it means to prepare students for the evolving labour/job market. There is pressing need to consciously continue to put more effort in grooming employable graduates by integrating career-focused learning into our Nigerian educational system.
Here’s how I feel about this Award:
Once again, I extend my deepest appreciation to the management of FUPRE, (Mrs.) C.E. Ogwuche, the Ag. Director of the Centre for Career Services, Prof. (Mrs.) D.F. Ogeleka – Deputy Vice-Chancellor and everyone who has contributed to making these training sessions and award presented to me possible. Let’s keep pushing boundaries.
While looking forward to further engagements, collaborations, and opportunities to share knowledge that makes a great impact, if you missed my previous blog post on the FUPRE training, where you can access my slides and watch the video highlight, click here to check it out.
About Sylvester I. Ebhonu, CLN, amPAIDeF
Youtube Channel @ https://youtube.com/@thedigitallibr
From University to the Workplace: Key Lessons from FUPRE Alumni Career Training
The transition from university to the workplace is one of the most critical phases in any graduate’s life, requiring more than just a degree, but intentional preparation. To succeed in this metamorphosis from university to workplace, graduates need to be able to present their skills, leverage digital tools, and navigate or create job opportunities.
Understanding these challenges that fresh graduates face, the Center for Career Services, Federal University of Petroleum Resources (FUPRE), Delta State, organized a career training session as part of the activities leading up to the university’s 4th Convocation Ceremony. Themed ‘Strategizing for the Ease of Metamorphosis from the University to the Workplace’, this event was designed to equip alumni and final-year students with the necessary skills to navigate the job market successfully.
As the Guest Speaker, Sylvester I. Ebhonu, Head of Faculty and Satellite Campus Libraries at Admiralty University of Nigeria, Ibusa (one of the emerging Federal Universities in Nigeria), had the privilege of sharing insights on topic: ‘The Digital You: Crafting an Impressive CV and Online Presence’. Accompanied by a member of his team, Mr. Boluwatife Ojo, a TEDx Speaker and Business Developer, as well as a Corps Member at Admiralty University of Nigeria, they engaged the participants in an interactive and practical learning experience.
Training Activities and Lessons
The labour market today isn’t as it were in the past. Traditional job-hunting methods are no longer enough. Employers are increasingly looking for digitally literate candidates who have the potential to transform their businesses. According to the speakers, in today’s economy you do not necessarily even have to submit a CV before you get a gig, your digital footprint can speak for you. During the session, Mr. Ebhonu, also known as The Digital Librarian covered key strategies that can help young professionals stand out and secure better career opportunities, including:
- The importance of a strong digital footprint and personal branding
- Effective strategies for crafting compelling CVs and cover letters
- How to prepare for job interviews with confidence
- Practical AI and digital skills essential for career growth, etc.
A major highlight of the training was the Mock Interview Session, designed to provide participants with real-world interview exposure. The interview panel featured distinguished university officials, including:
One major highlight of the training was the Mock Interview Session conducted by the duo of Sylvester and Bolu, where selected participants were drilled on real-life interview scenarios. With senior university staff serving as panelists, students received constructive feedback on their interview skills, helping them refine their approach for future opportunities.
To further encourage excellence, top-performing participants were presented gifts and selected for guidance on how to gain scholarships to a premium professional certification course in business development.
Introducing the Career Metamorphosis Model
During his session, The Digital Librarian introduced his ‘Career Metamorphosis Model’, a concept inspired by his own experiences of continuous learning, reinvention, and impact. This model serves as a structured roadmap for young professionals looking to navigate their careers successfully. “It has the potential to help you develop adaptability, embrace lifelong learning, and strategically position yourself for career success”, he said.
Appreciation & Acknowledgments
The Guest Speaker specially appreciates the Vice-Chancellor, Engr. Prof. Akpofure Rim-Rukeh, and the entire management of FUPRE for the opportunity to contribute to this impactful initiative. He is also grateful to Dr. (Mrs.) C.E. Ogwuche, the Ag. Director of the Centre for Career Services, for for organizing such a transformative training; to Prof. (Mrs.) D.F. Ogeleka – Deputy Vice-Chancellor for her devoting quality time to not just grace the occasion, but share some insightful tips with the participants on job interview preparation. Special appreciation also goes to senior members of staff who were present, including:
- Prof. Joachim Ukutsemuya – Director, Center for Entrepreneurship
- Prof. (Mrs.) Omosede Osafile – Director, Sub-Degree Programmes
- Dr. Elemike E.E. – Director, Sustainable Development
- Career Coaches from different departments, including Patrick Osaze
- A representative of the Counseling Unit, and many other distinguished guests.
While the Speaker look forward to seeing the impact this initiative will have on the careers of the participants, he congratulates the graduating class of FUPRE on their upcoming 4th Convocation Ceremony! This is a beginning and not an ending. The labour market is highly competitive, but with the right strategies and mindset, you can carve a niche for yourself and thrive.
Download a complete copy of the presentation here:
Watch Highlights of the Event and Subscribe to The Digital Librarian’s Youtube Channel here: