INFLUENCE OF SIWES ON ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OF OFFICE TECHNOLOGY AND MANAGEMENT (OTM) STUDENTS (A CASE STUDY OF THE FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC, EDE OSUN STATE)

Abstract The Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) has been an integral component of technical education, designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical skills for students in vocational fields such as Office Technology and Management (OTM). This study explores the influence of SIWES on the academic performance of OTM students, focusing on how industry exposure contributes to skill acquisition, academic understanding, and professional preparedness. It also investigates the challenges faced by students during their SIWES experiences and evaluates the effectiveness of institutional and industrial support systems. The study employed a descriptive survey research design. Structured questionnaires were distributed to 51 secretaries in Federal Polytechnic, Ede. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (i.e Arithmetic mean and Standard deviation). The findings reveal that SIWES significantly improves students' understanding of theoretical concepts, enhances their practical skills, and boosts their confidence and motivation for academic excellence. However, challenges such as inadequate supervision, financial difficulties, and mismatched placements were identified as impediments to maximizing the benefits of SIWES. The study concludes that SIWES is a vital educational program that substantially enhances academic performance and professional readiness among OTM students. It recommends increased funding, better coordination between institutions and industry, and improved mentorship to address the identified challenges. Strengthening these aspects will ensure that SIWES continues to provide a robust platform for students to integrate academic knowledge with workplace demands, ultimately preparing them for successful careers in Office Technology and Management.