Experts at the Osun State University, Okuku Campus, have advised students and lecturers to develop stronger adaptability skills as technology continues to reshape workplaces. This was the focus of the first national conference organised by the Department of Employment Relations and Human Resource Development.
Acting Head of Department, Dr. Zaccheaus Olufunminiyi Olonode, said the event was aimed at preparing students, lecturers and HR professionals for the demands of disruptive technologies. He noted that students must be ready to learn, unlearn and relearn as workplace expectations change quickly.
Dr. Olonode added that the conference also challenged lecturers to move beyond traditional teaching and embrace technology in their work. He said the department was established to drive research and contribute to national and global HR conversations.
The Provost of the College of Management and Social Sciences, Prof. Ishola Oyelekan Ayantunji, described the conference as historic, noting that it was the first of its kind at the department level. He said the event exposed students to new ideas from experts across the country, adding that technological change should be seen as an opportunity to adjust, not a threat.
Prof. Ayantunji stressed that artificial intelligence will not remove jobs but will change the skills needed for them. He said roles that depend on emotional intelligence cannot be replaced by machines.
Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Dr. Toyin Solomon Olaniyan, appreciated the university’s support and said the conference highlighted the essential role of humans in organisations. He explained that machines cannot function without human guidance.
The conference featured keynote speeches, panel sessions and discussions on digital skills, HR innovation, workplace inclusion and emerging trends in employment relations.
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