IMT ENUGU HOLDS STUDENTS LEADERSHIP TRAINING 2024, FOCUSING ON NIGERIAN STUDENTS IN A CHANGING SOCIETY

Today, The Institute of Management and Technology (IMT), Enugu, organized a transformative Students Leadership Training 2024 at the IMT International Conference Centre, attracting students, faculty, and respected speakers for a day focused on leadership in a rapidly evolving society. Under the theme, "Nigerian Students in a Contemporary Society," the program emphasized the challenges, responsibilities, and opportunities facing students in modern Nigeria, encouraging them to take proactive roles as the future leaders of the nation.

The training, which began promptly at 10 a.m., drew a diverse audience of students keen to understand their roles in the societal landscape, as well as to develop leadership skills that are essential for personal and national progress. The event was graced by notable speakers, including Mrs. Ifeoma Nnamani, Director of the Centre for Memories in Enugu; Mr. Okoani Elochukwu Onyema, Director of the Black Jaguar Book Club, Enugu; and Dr. Emeka Patrick Ejim, Deputy Rector of IMT, each of whom brought a wealth of insight to the gathering.

Prof. Goze S. Ogbodo, the Rector of IMT and Chief Host of the event, delivered the opening remarks. In his address, Prof. Ogbodo expressed pride in the students’ eagerness to learn and develop as leaders, underscoring the importance of self-awareness and responsibility in today’s dynamic society. He highlighted IMT’s commitment to not only academic excellence but also to fostering well-rounded individuals who are prepared to tackle societal challenges with resilience and vision.

“This event is more than a leadership training; it is a platform for molding the future leaders of Nigeria,” Prof. Ogbodo stated. “Our students are stepping into a world that demands innovative thinking, cultural awareness, and ethical integrity. IMT is dedicated to equipping them with these qualities, guiding them to become the vanguards of positive change.”

Dr. Emeka Patrick Ejim, Deputy Rector of IMT, served as one of the keynote speakers. In his thought-provoking speech, Dr. Ejim stressed the importance of adaptability and critical thinking for young leaders in Nigeria. He emphasized that today’s students are faced with both unprecedented opportunities and unique challenges, making it essential for them to acquire skills that allow them to navigate the complexities of contemporary society. “Leadership today requires more than just knowledge; it demands empathy, resilience, and a commitment to societal development,” he noted.

Guest speaker Mrs. Ifeoma Nnamani, Director of the Centre for Memories, spoke passionately about the need for students to preserve and understand Nigeria’s history and cultural heritage. She explained that a strong sense of identity and an appreciation of one’s roots are foundational to effective leadership. “Leadership is not just about leading people forward; it’s also about understanding where we come from and the values that define us as a people,” she said, urging students to cultivate a deep appreciation for Nigeria’s cultural legacy.

Okoani Elochukwu Onyema, Director of the Black Jaguar Book Club, provided a compelling perspective on the role of literacy and self-education in shaping one’s worldview and leadership style. He encouraged students to become lifelong learners, emphasizing that books and knowledge are critical tools for developing informed and visionary leaders. “In a society that’s constantly evolving, leaders must be readers, thinkers, and doers,” Onyema stated, inspiring the students to broaden their horizons through reading and intellectual exploration.

Also present at the event was Dr. Jude Okenwa, Director of Student Affairs, who expressed the institution’s continued support for student leadership initiatives. Dr. Okenwa highlighted the crucial role of student engagement in fostering a vibrant and progressive academic community, encouraging students to actively participate in leadership roles within the campus and beyond.

Throughout the training, the speakers addressed key topics that resonated deeply with the students, including the importance of integrity in leadership, the value of cultural understanding, and the power of resilience. Interactive sessions allowed students to engage directly with the speakers, asking questions and sharing their own perspectives on the future of Nigerian leadership. These discussions provided a platform for students to voice their aspirations and concerns, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.

The Students Leadership Training 2024 event concluded with a call to action from Prof. Ogbodo, who urged the students to carry the lessons they learned into their daily lives, using them as guiding principles for personal growth and societal contribution. As the event drew to a close, it was evident that the training had left an indelible mark on the students, equipping them with knowledge and inspiration to lead in today’s contemporary Nigerian society.

This landmark event at IMT reaffirms the institution's dedication to not only fostering academic success but also nurturing a new generation of capable, ethical, and culturally grounded leaders. With the support of IMT’s visionary leadership and its distinguished guest speakers, the students left the conference with a renewed sense of purpose and the tools needed to navigate and shape the future of Nigeria.