The Ascent Club has teamed up with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC), Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company (SNEPCo), and the University of Lagos to prepare students for life beyond the classroom through the 2025 Ascent Career Clinic.
Held under the theme “Career Readiness Skills for the Real World,” the event brought together top industry professionals, business leaders, and HR experts to mentor more than 100 students on essential workplace skills, networking, and personal development.
Founder of The Ascent Club and visibility expert, Dr. Glory Edozien, explained that the initiative was born out of a need to help students transition smoothly from academic life to professional environments.
“Our goal is to close the gap between what students learn in school and what is expected in the workplace. Through this programme, we’re equipping them with both technical knowledge and soft skills that foster employability,” she said.
Edozien noted that 20 participants have been chosen for a six-month mentorship with executives across diverse industries to help them gain firsthand exposure to real-world challenges and expectations.
Speaking during the event, Areje Adegoke, Asset and Business Opportunity Manager for Deep Water Non-Operated Ventures, urged students to take initiative in building their careers by combining theory with practical learning.
“Students should be intentional about growth — find mentors, build competence, and align their classroom experience with the evolving demands of the workplace,” Adegoke advised.
Moniepoint’s Human Resource Business Partner, Chiazagom Anisiebo, also emphasized the importance of crafting compelling résumés, improving interview skills, and building a strong professional presence on LinkedIn.
The event featured a “Mentor’s Den” session where senior professionals shared insights on leadership, communication, and career progression. Among them were Edith Lawson of NNPC’s NUIMS, Deborah David of Powergas, Omolola Ani of Seplat, and Abiola Longe, CEO of HCDC Limited.
Edozien added that the collaboration with NNPC and SNEPCo reflects a shared commitment to nurturing the next generation of young African professionals through continuous mentorship and career guidance.
She expressed optimism that the Ascent Career Clinic would become an annual platform for developing talent and strengthening the link between academia and industry.
