The Landmark University Center for Research, Innovation and Discoveries (LUCRID) in collaboration with the Department of Sociology, Landmark University on Friday 28th January, 2022, organized the 16th webinar series to mentor students and other young scholars in the social sciences and other related fields on career opportunities. The webinar which has its theme as “Career Opportunities for the 21st Century Social Scientists” addressed the participants on ways to develop agility in accomplishing tasks, build capacity and excellently deliver in the world of works as well as leveraging new career opportunities. 

In her opening remarks, the acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Charity Aremu noted that 21st-century research is all-encompassing and demands critical thinking, adequate knowledge and proffering solution. According to her, competence comes from the combination of knowledge, skills and experience, and for this to be achieved, there must be a process of learning, unlearning and relearning. Furthermore, she stated that competence is the capacity to use scientific knowledge, to identify questions and to draw evidence-based conclusions in order to understand and help make decisions about the natural world and the changes made to it through human activity. 

Professor Aremu indicated that social science research has made important contributions to population policy, and the effectiveness of planning programmes, increasing the quality of life through inquisitiveness and a variety of functions for the benefit of society. She thereafter urged students to maximize the numerous advantages in the field to develop competencies required for topmost career attainment and fulfilment in the 21st century. 

Presenting his papers, the guest speaker, Mr Kolawole Oladejo encouraged participants to harness opportunities that would get them into the roles they fit conveniently. Mr Oladejo who is currently an MBA fellow at the Pennsylvania state university in United State shared from his wealth of experience in banking as the Lead, Data Analyst and Business Intelligence in Wema Bank Plc, and Head of Service, Innovation and Measurement in First City Monument Bank (FCMB), Nigeria with about ten years experience before relocating to the United States. He encouraged participants to acquire and/or develop necessary skills in and outside of their fields which he said would be the backbone of any job secured by their certificates. “Your skill will separate you from the crowd; showcase yourself if you are sure of your skills. The biggest connection you need now is the internet, not social media. Be inquisitive, be dependable, build network and ensure your skills add value especially convenience,” Mr Oladejo asserted.  

The Head of the Department of Sociology, Dr Barnabas Obasaju in his remarks stated that the webinar was organized for the students to know some of the opportunities that are outside and the best way to take advantage of the opportunities. Dr Obasaju also urged the students to upgrade and learn necessary skills, identify areas of competencies and build on what has been shared in the course of the presentation.