World Aquaculture Society Launches Mentors-Mentee Program in West Africa with Inspiring Welcome Events
West Africa – May 30, 2025 – The World Aquaculture Society (WAS), African Chapter, West African Region, has officially launched its pioneering Mentors-Mentee Program for Fisheries and Aquaculture Graduate and Undergraduate students across West Africa. The two-day virtual "Welcome Party" events, held on May 29 and 30, 2025, marked the formal initiation of the program, bringing together students and seasoned professionals committed to shaping the future of aquaculture in the region.
The program kicked off with the Mentors Welcome Party on May 29, 2025, where mentors met with program organizers, shared their expectations, and received a detailed orientation on the guidelines and mentorship framework. The event created a dynamic space for mentors to align with the vision of nurturing the next generation of aquaculture leaders.
The following day, May 30, 2025, saw the enthusiastic participation of student mentees in their own Welcome Party. A major highlight of the event was the presence of Deaconess Foluke Areola, newly elected President-Elect of the World Aquaculture Society, who delivered a keynote speech underscoring the transformative power of mentorship. She shared her personal story of how mentorship shaped her journey to leadership and reaffirmed her strong commitment to supporting mentorship programs worldwide.
Also addressing the mentees was the Global Student Director of the World Aquaculture Society, Mariam Oyinade, who emphasized the importance of student involvement in the Society and encouraged new mentees to take full advantage of membership opportunities.
The event featured an impactful address by Prof. Nike Aladetohun, Chairperson of the Mentors-Mentee Program Committee, who spoke on the critical role of mentorship in developing capable and visionary leaders in the aquaculture industry.
The Pioneer Director of the WAS African Chapter, West African Region, and Executive Head of the Mentorship Program Committee, Dr. Lanre Badmus, expressed his delight at the progress made by the committee and encouraged students to approach the program with a positive attitude, an open mind, and a strong desire for growth. He also proudly introduced the President-Elect, celebrating her election and ongoing commitment to the African aquaculture sector.
During the session, the program guidelines and rules were officially presented to the mentees, and they were briefed on how mentor-mentee pairings will be conducted throughout the program.
About the Program
The Mentors-Mentee Program is an initiative of the World Aquaculture Society, African Chapter, West African Region, designed to connect aspiring aquaculture students with experienced professionals in the field. The program aims to foster personal development, professional networking, and knowledge exchange in support of sustainable aquaculture development across West Africa.
Media Contact:
Communications Team -
World Aquaculture Society – African Chapter (West African Region)
Email: warwasac@gmail.com
Website: wasacwar.com
