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The Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) was established in 1973 by the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) to address the issue of Nigerian graduates lacking practical skills required for employment in industries. SIWES provides higher education students with the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in a real-world setting, gain exposure to industrial equipment, and develop essential skills. It also serves as a platform for students to interact with experienced professionals, inspiring them to become valuable contributors to society. This report documents my SIWES experience at the National Root Crops Research Institute (NRCRI) in Umudike, Abia State.
The primary objective of SIWES is to bridge the gap between theoretical education and practical application, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for the demands of the workforce.
It plays a pivotal role in the education system by providing students with hands-on experience in their chosen fields, fostering a deeper understanding of course materials, and equipping them with practical skills that are essential for career success.
During my SIWES program, I had the privilege of working at the National Root Crops Research Institute (NRCRI), a renowned agricultural research institute in Nigeria.
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This experience allowed me to not only gain practical knowledge but also witness firsthand the significant contributions that research institutes like NRCRI make to the country's agricultural sector.
The National Root Crops Research Institute (NRCRI), Umudike, is one of Nigeria's 17 agricultural research institutes. It originated as a provincial experimental farm under the National Department of Agriculture and evolved into a federal entity, the Federal Agricultural Research and Training Station (FARTS), on April 1, 1972. By April 1, 1976, it became the National Root Crops Research Institute, as per the Agricultural Research Institutes Decree of 1973.
NRCRI's mission encompasses various aspects of root and tuber crop research and development, including:
The institute has made remarkable strides in its research efforts, leading to significant achievements that have contributed to Nigeria's economic development.
Notably, NRCRI's research findings have positioned Nigeria as the world's leading producer of cassava and yam, with annual production figures of 33.1 and 19 million metric tons, respectively. This track record has also earned the institute recognition on World Food Day for two consecutive years.
Among the institute's notable achievements are:
These accomplishments demonstrate the institute's commitment to research and innovation, ultimately benefiting both the agricultural sector and the nation as a whole.
Upon my arrival at NRCRI, I was warmly welcomed into the workshop environment, which served as the hub of hands-on activities and practical learning. The initial phase of my experience began with a comprehensive introduction to workshop safety protocols, emphasizing the paramount importance of adhering to safety rules and the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at all times. This emphasis on safety was indicative of the institute's commitment to providing a secure working environment for all its personnel.
Subsequently, I was introduced to the skilled and dedicated workshop staff, whose expertise and guidance would prove invaluable throughout my SIWES journey. Additionally, I familiarized myself with the various tools, machinery, and equipment housed within the workshop, each serving a specific purpose in the various projects and tasks undertaken at NRCRI.
The core of my SIWES experience revolved around the modification of a ginger cutting machine and a ginger washing machine. These machines played a crucial role in the processing of ginger, a staple crop in Nigeria with widespread economic importance.
The ginger washing machine, as its name suggests, is designed to clean freshly harvested ginger, effectively removing dirt and impurities. The ginger cutting machine, on the other hand, is tasked with the responsibility of precisely dividing matured ginger into two equal parts, facilitating further processing and utilization.
The tasks I engaged in as part of this project encompassed a wide range of skills and techniques, including:
The hand grinding machine, commonly known as an angle grinder, emerged as an indispensable tool in the workshop. Operating under the power of an electric motor, the angle grinder exhibited its versatility in cutting, grinding, and polishing various materials. It featured an abrasive disk for grinding and a thinner cut-off disc for cutting, each serving distinct purposes in the modification process.
Prudent precautions were observed when using the angle grinder to ensure safety and optimal performance:
Introducing the hand drilling machine, a versatile tool designed for creating holes in a variety of materials. To achieve precision in drilling, a center punch was employed to mark the spot where the drill bit would penetrate, preventing any deviation from the intended location. During my experience, I learned to apply just the right amount of pressure to ensure effective drilling without damaging the drill bit.
During the modification project, the need arose to join various metal components to create functional machinery. This involved employing diverse techniques such as welding, riveting, and the use of bolts and nuts. Safety measures were scrupulously followed during welding, including the use of protective facemasks to safeguard the eyes from welding sparks.
Before any work commenced, precise measurements and markings were crucial to ensure accuracy and prevent wastage of materials. Instruments such as vernier calipers, steel rules, and measuring tapes were used meticulously to achieve the desired dimensions and specifications.
The radial drilling machine, a substantial gear-headed drill press with a movable head, presented a unique advantage in drilling holes at different locations on a workpiece without the need to reposition the workpiece itself. This capability expedited the modification process and enhanced efficiency. In addition to the drilling function, the radial drilling machine featured power feed for the spindle and a coolant system, contributing to the precision and quality of the work undertaken.
Throughout the project, problem-solving skills were cultivated, and solutions were devised in response to challenges encountered during the modification of the ginger cutting and washing machines. These practical experiences not only enriched my technical knowledge but also instilled a sense of accomplishment as I witnessed the successful testing and modification of the machines to meet the desired objectives.
The relevance of my SIWES experience to my field of study, Mechanical Engineering, is paramount. It goes beyond the mere application of theoretical knowledge to practical tasks; it represents the bridge between classroom learning and real-world engineering challenges.
Mechanical Engineering is a discipline that thrives on practical application. The SIWES program reinforces the fundamental principles learned in the classroom and imparts the hands-on skills that are indispensable in the field. As a Mechanical Engineering student, this experience was instrumental in honing my ability to apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios, fostering a deeper understanding of mechanical systems and processes.
Furthermore, SIWES equips students with the practical dexterity necessary to navigate complex engineering problems. It instills a sense of confidence in handling machinery, tools, and equipment commonly used in mechanical engineering tasks. By immersing myself in the workshop environment, I not only broadened my technical expertise but also developed the essential attributes of adaptability, problem-solving, and teamwork.
In the context of Nigeria's educational landscape, where access to advanced laboratory facilities may be limited, SIWES serves as a vital component in the training of Mechanical Engineering graduates. It provides exposure to industrial-grade equipment and practices, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to contribute meaningfully to the workforce upon completion of their studies.
Moreover, SIWES offers students the opportunity to witness the practical application of engineering principles in addressing real-world challenges. This exposure enhances their ability to innovate and devise creative solutions to complex problems, a skill set that is highly valued in the engineering profession.
In conclusion, my SIWES experience at the National Root Crops Research Institute, Umudike, was a transformative journey that significantly contributed to my growth as a Mechanical Engineering student. The exposure to practical tasks, the utilization of advanced machinery, and the application of theoretical knowledge in a real-world setting enriched my educational experience and prepared me for future challenges in the field.
I developed strong working relationships with the institute's staff and my supervisor, benefiting from their guidance and expertise. The emphasis on safety in the workshop underscored the importance of maintaining a secure working environment, instilling in me a commitment to safety that will remain a cornerstone of my professional practice.
As I reflect on my SIWES experience, I am convinced that programs like SIWES are indispensable in the educational journey of aspiring engineers. The practical exposure, technical skills development, and problem-solving opportunities it offers contribute immensely to the development of well-rounded and competent engineering professionals.
Therefore, I recommend the continued implementation and enhancement of SIWES programs across educational institutions, ensuring that students across various disciplines have the opportunity to gain practical experience and prepare themselves for successful careers in their respective fields.
Industrial Work Experience Report: Agriculture. (2024, Jan 10). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/document/industrial-work-experience-report-agriculture
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