It is my great honour and privilege to serve as Chairman of this highly strategic Open Day organised by the Department of Clothing and Textiles Design.
Today is more than a ceremonial gathering; it is a celebration of creativity, innovation, enterprise, and the transformative power of education. This Open Day provides a unique platform for institutions to showcase their programme offerings, highlight success stories, demonstrate their wealth of experience, and exhibit their capabilities to industries, partners, investors, and other critical stakeholders.
The Clothing and Textiles industry remains one of the most vibrant sectors of the global economy. It connects culture with commerce, tradition with innovation, and creativity with industrial development. In a rapidly changing world where technology and sustainability continue to redefine production and consumption patterns, institutions such as this department play a pivotal role in preparing the next generation of designers, entrepreneurs, researchers, and industry leaders.
The significance of this event lies in its ability to bridge the gap between the classroom and the marketplace. It creates opportunities for meaningful engagement between academia and industry, enabling students and professionals to exchange ideas, explore partnerships, and identify pathways for growth and advancement.
I commend the Department of Clothing and Textiles Design for creating this platform. By opening its doors to stakeholders, the department demonstrates confidence in the quality of its programmes, the competence of its faculty, and the ingenuity of its students. Such transparency and engagement are essential ingredients for institutional excellence and societal relevance.
To our students, I encourage you to see today as an opportunity to showcase not only your skills and talents but also your vision for the future. The designs, innovations, and solutions you present today may well become tomorrow’s successful enterprises and globally recognised brands.
To our industry partners and stakeholders, your presence here underscores the importance of collaboration. The future of the textile and fashion industry depends on strong partnerships that promote innovation, skills development, entrepreneurship, and sustainable practices.
As we interact, network, and learn from one another today, let us remember that education achieves its highest purpose when knowledge is translated into practical solutions that improve lives, create employment, preserve cultural heritage, and drive economic development.
I therefore congratulate the Department of Clothing and Textiles Design for this commendable initiative and encourage all participants to maximise the opportunities this event presents.
May today’s Open Day foster new relationships, inspire fresh ideas, and strengthen the bonds between academia, industry, and society.
I introduce to you all Pareto theory (80/20) and the importance of creativity in the business of clothing and textiles design.
Thank you for your attention, and I wish us all a successful and productive event.
God bless you all.
Prepared and delivered by Chief Abiodun Oladimeji Lasile DL MnbR Orunto Baalufe Owu Kingdom Abeokuta
Thursday, 5th June, 2026
