The journey towards fostering a robust link between academia and industry has been a defining aspect of my tenure as the Rector of Yaba College of Technology (Yabatech). I have always envisioned an institution that does not only impart theoretical knowledge but also ensures that our graduates are equipped with the necessary skills to thrive in the global workforce. The recent event, ‘A Day with Industry Partners,’ is a testament to our commitment to bridging the gap between education and industry. It was an opportunity for key stakeholders in various industries to interact with the academia, share insights, and develop strategies to enhance youth employment and enterprise development. This initiative was not born out of chance but out of a deliberate effort to create an ecosystem where innovation and practical experience thrive. At Yabatech, we have taken significant strides to ensure our students are exposed to real-world applications of their knowledge. Our Centre for Linkages, Partnership, and International Relations plays a crucial role in facilitating collaborations that provide our students with internship opportunities, entrepreneurship development, and access to international best practices. Our efforts have yielded remarkable results. The recognition of our students and staff for their outstanding innovations in waste-to-wealth initiatives during the event was a moment of pride for me. It reinforced the belief that with the right support and opportunities, our students can compete globally and drive transformative change in our society. Collaboration with esteemed institutions and industry partners such as the Foresight Institute of Research and Translation (FIRAT) in Rwanda, Semicolon Africa, and UNICEF has further strengthened our resolve to continuously improve our curriculum and research capabilities. Through these partnerships, we are exploring biomanufacturing projects, modern mechanic village initiatives, and digital literacy programs that will significantly benefit our students and the wider community. One of the most crucial aspects of our engagements is ensuring that the skills our students acquire align with the demands of the labor market. The global workforce is rapidly evolving, and Nigeria must not be left behind. Our students must be prepared to meet the highest standards of competence, creativity, and innovation. Moving forward, Yabatech remains committed to deepening academia-industry linkages, fostering research collaborations, and driving skill-based training that will empower our students to become future leaders and problem solvers. Our ultimate goal is to produce graduates who are not only employable but who can also create employment, thereby contributing to the socio-economic development of our nation. I am deeply grateful to all our industry partners, members of the governing council, and academic staff who continue to support this vision. Together, we will build an institution that remains a beacon of excellence in technical and vocational education in Nigeria and beyond. Dr. Ibraheem Abdul Rector, Yaba College of Technology https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1HJbJDwCYH/