A
TECHNICAL REPORT
ON
STUDENTS’ INDUSTRIAL WORK EXPERIENCE SCHEME (SIWES)
UNDERTAKEN
AT
GOZAK SUPERMARKET AND PHARMACY
BY
ADEFISAYO AYOMIDE DANIEL
FPI/CEM/23/F043
A TECHNICAL REPORT
ON
STUDENTS’ INDUSTRIAL WORK EXPERIENCE SCHEME (SIWES)
UNDERTAKEN AT
GOZAK SUPERMARKET AND PHARMACY
BY
ADEFISAYO AYOMIDE DANIEL
FPI/CEM/23/F043
SUBMITTED TO
THE DEPARTMENT OF COOPERATIVE ECONOMICS AND
MANAGEMENT,
SCHOOL OF BUSINESS AND MANAGEMENT STUDIES,
THE FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC, ILE-OLUJI, ONDO STATE,
NIGERIA.
IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE
AWARD OF NATIONAL DIPLOMA (ND) IN COOPERATIVE ECONOMICS
AND MANAGEMENT.
FEBRUARY, 2025
CERTIFICATION
This is to certify that Adefisayo Ayomide Daniel with Matriculation Number
FPI/CEM/23/F043 of the department of Corporative Economics And Management,
School of Business Studies, The Federal Polytechnic Ile-Oluji, Ondo State, Nigeria, did
his Four (4) months Students’ Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) at Gozak
Supermarket.
This is in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of National Diploma in
Corporative Economics and Management.
Adefisayo Ayomide Daniel …………………………….
Student Signature & Date
MR. AMAKA A.F. …………………………….
SIWES Supervisor Signature & Date
MR. IBRAHIM M. O. .........................................
HEAD OF DEPARTMENT Signature & Date
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
I appreciate God Almighty for granting me the grace and the opportunity to be alive till
this moment to complete this SIWES program successfully.
I also appreciate the Chairman and other staff of Gozak Supermarket, for taking me
under their tutelage and their patient in teaching and equipping me with diverse
managerial and knowledge in making me to have a wonderful experiences during the
period of SIWES program.
My sincere appreciation goes to the Head of the Department of Cooperative Economics
and Management Mr. Ibrahim, M. O. and all the amazing staff of Cooperative
Economics and Management Department for taking me under their tutelage and their
patient in teaching and equipping me with diverse managerial and knowledge.
Also, my Parents, Mr. and Mrs. Adefisayo who supported me financially and
physically and also in prayers, may you reap the fruit of your labour.
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 BACKGROUND OF SIWES
The Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) was established by the
Industrial Trust Fund in 1973, to solve the problem of lack of adequate practical skill
preparing for employment in industries by Nigerian graduates of Tertiary Institution.
The scheme exposes students to industrial skill necessary for a smooth transition from
the opportunity of being familiarized and exposed to the needed experience in handling
machinery and equipment, which might not be available in the educational institutions.
Participating of SIWES has become a necessary per-condition for the Award of
Certificate in specific discipline in most institution of Higher Learning in accordance
with the Education Policy of the Government.
This report was based on the relevance and importance of Student Industrial Work
Experience Scheme (SIWES) program with the aids of Industrial Trust Fund (ITF).
The task of education, our scientific, engineers and techniques does not only lay hands
on classroom learning, but also industrial based.
1.1 AIM AND OBJECTIVES OF THE SCHEME
The theory and practical skill are necessary for the technological development of
industrial work, so if we agree with this fact therefore, it means that SWIES program is
important as the classroom instruction will be relieved.
SOME OF THE OBJECTIVES OF SIWES ARE LISTED BELOW:
i. It provides opportunity for students to apply for his or her knowledge in real
work situation.
ii. It makes transaction from school to world easier.
iii. It expose student to his/her course of study industrial practice for adequate
acquisition of vital experience.
iv. To train students to be punctual and efficient in their daily endeavor.
v. To train students for specific job and vocational work.
THE TRAINING LOGBOOK
The logbook is to assist student to keep an accurate record of the training and it show
the department and section in which the student has worked and the period of times
spent in each department or section. The students must record the activities of each
working day clearly with sketches and diagram where necessary.
Student must submit the logbook to their industry based supervisor at the end of every
month throughout the period of the SWIES program. The academic staff of your
institution will check the logbook during their visit to ensure that proper training is
being received by the student and record their comments.
SOME OF THE OBJECTIVES OF THE TRAINING LOGBOOK ARE LISTED
BELOW:
The objective of Industrial Training cannot be over emphasized, it enable
students of various Higher Institutions in Nigeria, particularly in Science Department to
acquire a good knowledge in all their field of study among the benefit of Industrial
attachment to Technical ship Education in General and to the students of under-going
in particular.
This includes the following benefits:
Students are able to see all they have been taught in class.
SIWES Programme exposes to interpersonal relationship in companies and
offices both government and private set-up.
Student should know how economy the life is to make their lives through the
economy.
Students are able to acquire more knowledge of other occupation which is
different from their field of study.
It gives students the opportunity to know how to plan and execute various
techniques relating to their field of studies.
BODIES INVOLVED IN THE MANAGEMENT OF SIWES
The bodies involved in the management of SIWES are;
i. Federal government.
ii. Industrial Training Funds (ITF).
iii. Other supervising agencies which include; National University Commission
(NUC), National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) and National Council
for College of Education (NCCE).
IMPORTANCE OF SIWES TO STUDENTS
SIWES stands for Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme. It is a program
designed to expose students in tertiary institutions to practical work experience in their
field of study, typically for a period of four Months. The importance of SIWES can be
outlined as follows:
Practical Exposure: SIWES provides students with the opportunity to gain practical
experience in their chosen field. This hands-on experience helps students to understand
theoretical concepts better and apply them in real-world situations.
Skill Development: Through SIWES, students have the chance to develop important
skills relevant to their discipline. This includes technical skills, problem-solving
abilities, communication skills, teamwork, and time management skills.
Industry Relevance: SIWES helps students to understand the practical aspects of their
field and how it applies to the industry. This firsthand experience can guide students in
aligning their academic pursuits with the demands and realities of the job market.
Networking Opportunities: During SIWES, students interact with professionals in
their field, which can lead to valuable networking opportunities. These connections can
be beneficial for future job prospects, mentorship, and gaining insights into the
industry.
Employability: SIWES enhances students' employability by providing them with
relevant work experience. Employers often prefer candidates with practical experience,
and SIWES provides students with a platform to acquire this experience before entering
the workforce.
Career Exploration: SIWES allows students to explore different career paths within
their field of study. By working in various departments or roles during their industrial
training, students can better understand their interests and strengths, helping them make
informed career decisions.
Personal Development: Beyond academic and professional skills, SIWES also
contributes to students' personal development. They learn to adapt to work
environments, manage responsibilities, and develop a sense of professionalism and
work ethic.
Curriculum Enhancement: SIWES serves as a bridge between academic learning and
practical application. Feedback from SIWES placements can help educational
institutions update and enhance their curriculum to better meet the needs of the
industry.
1.4 BRIEF HISTORY OF GOZAK SUPERMARKET & PHARMACY
Gozak Supermarket & Pharmacy, located in Akure Garage, Ondo city, Ondo State,
was established in July 2020. Despite being a relatively new establishment, it has
rapidly gained popularity and become a prominent shopping destination in the area.
The supermarket and pharmacy were founded with the vision of providing convenient
and comprehensive shopping options for the residents of Akure Garage and its
surrounding communities. The founders recognized the need for a reliable and well-
stocked store that offers a wide range of products, including groceries, household
essentials, and pharmaceutical supplies. Since its inception, Gozak Supermarket &
Pharmacy has prioritized customer satisfaction and has strived to create a welcoming
and pleasant shopping environment. The store features a clean and organized layout,
making it easy for customers to navigate through the aisles and find what they need.
The staff members are known for their friendly and helpful nature, ensuring that
customers receive excellent service.
Gozak Supermarket & Pharmacy takes pride in sourcing products from reputable
suppliers, ensuring that customers have access to high-quality goods. The supermarket
section offers a diverse selection of fresh produce, packaged foods, beverages, and
other household items. The pharmacy section provides a wide range of prescription
and over-the-counter medications, as well as health and wellness products, catering to
the healthcare needs of the community. Through effective management and a
commitment to meeting the evolving needs of its customers, Gozak Supermarket &
Pharmacy has experienced steady growth and success since its establishment. It has
become a trusted and reliable destination for shopping and pharmaceutical needs in
Akure Garage, contributing to the local economy and serving as a valuable resource
for the community.
2.3 ORGANOGRAM OF GOZAK PHARMACY AND SUPERMARKET
Figure 1.1: Organizational Chart of the Company
CHAPTER TWO
DESCRIPTION OF WORK DONE
During my SIWES (Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme) placement, I was
privileged to work in the Sales Department of Gozak Pharmacy and Supermarket, a
vibrant and customer-centric environment. This opportunity enabled me to bridge the
gap between academic theories and practical applications in sales and retail
management. My time at Gozak was pivotal in enhancing my professional
competencies, fostering my understanding of business operations, and cultivating
valuable interpersonal and problem-solving skills.
In my role, I actively engaged with customers, contributed to inventory management,
and supported merchandising initiatives, which collectively deepened my insight into
the retail industry. These experiences were instrumental in shaping my appreciation of
the dynamic nature of sales operations and the importance of customer satisfaction in
achieving organizational goals.
2.1 INTRODUCTION TO SALES DEPARTMENT
The Sales Department is a cornerstone of any organization, as it directly drives revenue
and sustains business growth. At Gozak Pharmacy and Supermarket, the Sales
Department plays a pivotal role in fostering lasting customer relationships, promoting a
diverse range of products, and achieving sales objectives while upholding exceptional
service standards.
Key Responsibilities of the Sales Department
1. Customer Acquisition and Retention: Attracting new customers while
maintaining the loyalty of existing clientele.
2. Relationship Building: Establishing trust and rapport with customers to
enhance satisfaction and repeat patronage.
3. Promotion and Sales: Employing effective marketing and communication
channels to meet customer needs and organizational goals.
At Gozak Pharmacy and Supermarket, the Sales Department serves as the bridge
between the company’s offerings and customer expectations, ensuring seamless
product availability, effective promotions, and efficient service delivery.
FUNCTIONS OF THE SALES DEPARTMENT AT GOZAK PHARMACY AND
SUPERMARKET
The department performs diverse functions that align with the company’s mission of
delivering value to its customers:
1. Customer Service Counter:
i. Serves as the first point of contact for customers.
ii. Addresses inquiries regarding product availability, pricing, promotions,
returns, and loyalty programs.
iii. Prioritizes customer satisfaction through prompt and professional
assistance.
2. Product Placement and Merchandising:
i. Strategically displays products to attract attention and optimize customer
experience.
ii. Ensures shelves are well-organized, accurately labeled, and visually
appealing.
3. Product Knowledge and Assistance:
i. Offers detailed product information to help customers make informed
decisions.
ii. Provides tailored recommendations based on individual customer needs.
4. Inventory Management:
i. Monitors stock levels to prevent overstocking or stockouts.
ii. Identifies slow-moving, out-of-stock, or expiring items and
communicates with the procurement team for timely replenishment.
5. Customer Feedback and Satisfaction:
i. Collects feedback through direct interactions, suggestion boxes, and
surveys.
ii. Implements feedback to enhance services and resolve customer
complaints effectively.
EXPERIENCE GAINED IN THE SALES DEPARTMENT
My placement at Gozak Pharmacy and Supermarket was rich in practical learning
experiences that contributed significantly to my personal and professional
development. Key areas of growth included:
1. Customer Interaction and Service Skills: Strengthened my ability to engage
with diverse customer demographics, effectively addressed customer needs,
handled complaints, and provided personalized assistance.
2. Product Knowledge: Acquired comprehensive knowledge of the store’s diverse
product portfolio, gained confidence in making product recommendations and
providing accurate information.
3. Visual Merchandising: Developed skills in organizing shelves and creating
visually engaging displays, and ensured that product labeling and pricing were
accurate and up to date.
4. Cashiering and Point-of-Sale (POS) Operations: Handled cash transactions and
utilized POS systems for processing payments, and demonstrated multitasking
and attention to detail in a fast-paced environment.
5. Teamwork and Collaboration: Worked collaboratively with colleagues to
address challenges and ensure smooth operations, and actively participated in
restocking activities, event planning, and managing peak shopping hours.
CHAPTER THREE
CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE ORGANIZATION
During my placement, I contributed to the Sales Department's overall success in several
key areas:
1. Enhancing Customer Experience:
1. Assisted customers in locating products and offered tailored product
recommendations.
2. Responded to inquiries and resolved complaints promptly, leading to improved
customer satisfaction.
2. Improving Product Display and Merchandising:
1. Designed eye-catching displays and ensured products were well-organized with
accurate labeling.
2. Promoted key items strategically, increasing sales and customer interest.
3. Supporting Inventory Management:
1. Monitored inventory levels, conducted stock counts, and flagged items nearing
expiration.
2. Contributed to reducing wastage and ensuring stock availability through
efficient inventory practices.
4. Fostering Teamwork and Collaboration:
1. Collaborated effectively with team members to address operational challenges.
2. Maintained a positive and productive working environment, contributing to the
department’s efficiency.
This placement not only enriched my understanding of sales operations but also
equipped me with practical skills that I am confident will prove invaluable in my future
endeavors.
CHAPTER FOUR
SUMAARY, RECOMMENDATIONS AND CONCLUSION
4.1 SUMMARY
My experience in the sales department during the SIWES period was highly enriching
and educational. I gained practical insights into various aspects of retail operations,
including customer service, product management, merchandising, and cashiering. The
skills and knowledge acquired during this internship will undoubtedly be beneficial in
my academic and professional journey. I am grateful for the opportunity provided by
Gozak Supermarket to learn and grow in a real-world work environment.
4.2 RECOMMENDATION
I recommend that:
1) The Industrial Training Fund (ITF) should organize a programme throughout
the nation to enlighten companies and the general public on the purpose and
benefits of SIWES programme.
2) ITF should give general procedure on how student on SIWES should be trained
and not for student to be used in the manner not relating to the field of study.
3) Students yet to embark on SIWES programme should be enlightened on the
challenges of the corporate world. The ministry should employ more highly
trained computer literates.
4) Industrial Training Fund should make provision for the creation of offices in
various states where they do not have offices, because student and staff might
find it difficult going to long distance. This will also help promote the attitude
of student’s award scheme, when they know ITF is their backyard.
4.3 CONCLUSION
Practical training establishment is an indispensable part of course structure, this
exposes student to various technologies and other skills that are related to their field of
study and famous experience when not addressed, could render all the effort of
education meaningless.
Meanwhile, I was thought in the school both practical and theory about the
administrative duties and computer but emphasis was laid for me to know more
Finally, the SIWES was very interesting.
REFERENCES
ITF (2004). Information and guidelines for Students Industrial Work Experience
Scheme: Reviewed, Jos, Nigeria.
The Federal Polytechnic Ile Oluji Siwes handbook
Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme Work logbook