CHAPTER ONE

1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 DEFINITION OF SIWES

SIWES stands for Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme. It is the accepted skills training

program, which forms part of the approved minimum Academic standards in the various degree

programs for all Nigerian tertiary Universities (N.U.C 1996). SIWES goes a long way inputting

to test the level of knowledge a student has acquired during the industrial training program. It is

an effort to bridge the gap existing between theory and other practices of architecture,

engineering and technology, sciences, agriculture, and other professional educational programs

in Nigerian tertiary institutions. It is aimed at exposing students to machines and equipment and

professional work methods in industries and other organizations. The scheme is a tripartite

program, involving the students, the universities, and the industries (employers of labor). It

allows students to familiarize themselves and expose themselves to the knowledge and

experience needed in handling equipment that is not readily available in their various institutions.

Before the establishment of this scheme, employers believed that the theoretical education in

tertiary institutions was not adequate enough to meet most of the needs of employers of labor.

1.2 HISTORY OF SIWES

Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) was established in 1971 by decree47

with the aim of promoting and encouraging the acquisition of skills in the private and public

industries. Its relevance in education system cannot be over emphasized as it develops the

student to become skilled and experience professionalism in their various disciplines. It enables

students to appreciate the basic concept involved in their field of study. It is also an effort to

bridge the gap existing between theory and practical, in the sense that it exposes students to real

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industrial work experience. SIWES, which involves the University authorities and the industrial

sector, runs for 24weeks for students in the fourth academic year in universities. The scheme was

organized by the Federal Government and jointly coordinated by the Industrial Training

Fund(ITF) and the Nigeria Universities Commission (NUC).The importance of the training

scheme

justified as it is a research field, which enables students to be totally in-depth in finding the

working culture, practice and tools in their various areas of specialization.

1.3 OBJECTIVES OF THE SCHEME

1. To provide an avenue for students in the Nigerian Universities to acquire industrial skills and

experience in their various field of study.

2. To prepare students for the work situation they are likely to meet after graduation.

3. To expose students to work methods and techniques in handling equipment and machinery

that may not be readily available in the universities.

4. To make transition from the university to the world of work and thus enhance student’s

contacts for future job placements.

5. To provide students with the opportunity to apply the theoretical knowledge they had gain in

school to real-life work situation, thereby bridging the gap between university work and actual

practice.

6. To enlist and strengthen employers involvement in the entire education process of preparing

university undergraduate for employment in the industry.

7. To provide students with an opportunity to apply their theoretical knowledge in real work

situation, thereby bridging the gap between University work and actual practice.

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8. To serve as opportunity for self- actualization for students thus making positive

and commendable contribution within the scope of his/her knowledge.

1.4 RELEVANCE AND JUSTIFICATION OF SIWES

One of the significant features of advanced industrial societies is the degree to which they have

achieved progress in the field of science and technology. This had enabled the citizens to enjoy a

good standard of living, which exceeds that of the developing Countries. Thus, formal education

comprising of field or industrial work is vital for the production of graduates with

increasingly specialized skill. Therefore, Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES)

is relevant for;

1. Improvement of science and technological education

2. Skilled manpower development

3. Creation of a community with increased standard of living

4. Development of critical and scientific approach to problems and their solutions.

5. New innovations in the field of science and technology. As a matter of fact, the student

industrial work experience scheme (SIWES) is a promotion for the growth of science and

technology, Engineering, Agriculture, Medical, Management, and other professional program in

the Nigerian tertiary Institution.

1.5 ORGANIZATION PROFILE

western region of Nigeria. It is located along Oyemekun road, in Akure, the state capital of Ondo

State. It is headed by Mr. Saka Yusuf Ogunleye who is the present commissioner in the state. In

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the ministry, there are various departments and offices such as the “Highway Department”,

“Geotechnical Department”, “Structure and Material laboratories”, “Electrical Department”,

“Mechanical Department”, “Civil Engineering Departments” and many more. During this period,

I was exposed to some of these departments and their works. I was also on the field for practical

works whenever I need to be.

1.6 ORGANIZATION STRUCTURE

Fig 1.0: Organizational structure of Ondo State Ministry of Works and Infrastructure

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 CHAPTER TWO

SECTIONAL ACTIVITIES AND WORK DONE

2.0 WORK CARRIED OUT DURING SIWES.

During my four months of industrial attachment at Ondo State Ministry of Works and

Infrastructure, Akure, Ondo State. I was introduced to various activities which are:

Rehabilitation of a Line drains, Patching and Maintenance of Road, Grading and Desiltation of

Drains and Culvert, Carting away of silt and debris that are removed from the drains and Culvert.

2.1 EQUIPMENTS/MACHINERY USED IN SITE

Excavators are heavy construction machines equipped with a boom, bucket, and rotating cab.

They are used for digging trenches, foundations, and large-scale earthmoving projects. They can

also be used in forestry, demolition, and mining operations.

Fig 2.1: Excavators

2. Bulldozers

Bulldozers are powerful tracked or wheeled machines with a large metal blade in the front. They

are mainly used for pushing large quantities of soil, sand, rubble, or other materials during

construction and land clearing. Bulldozers can also be fitted with rippers at the back to break up

hard surfaces.

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Fig 2.2 Bulldozers

3. Grader

Graders, also known as motor graders, are used in road construction and maintenance. They have

a long adjustable blade positioned between the front and rear wheels, which is used to create a

smooth and level surface. Graders are essential for preparing roads before paving.

Fig 2.3: Grader

4. Rollers

Rollers, or road rollers, are used for compacting soil, gravel, asphalt, or other materials to create

a stable base for roads, foundations, and structures. They come in different types, including

smooth drum rollers, pneumatic rollers, and vibratory rollers.

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Fig 2.4: Roller

5. Concrete Mixer

A concrete mixer is a machine used to mix cement, sand, gravel, and water to form concrete. It

can be a portable drum mixer, a truck-mounted mixer (transit mixer), or a stationary mixer used

in batching plants.

Fig 2.5: Concrete Mixer

6. Backhoe Loader

A backhoe loader is a versatile construction machine with a front loader bucket and a rear-

mounted hydraulic backhoe. It is commonly used for digging, trenching, lifting, and material

handling in construction and agriculture.

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Fig 2.6: Backhoe Loader

7. Paver

A paver, or asphalt paver, is a machine used to lay asphalt on roads, bridges, and parking lots. It

ensures a smooth and even layer before compacting with a roller. Pavers are essential for road

construction and maintenance.

Fig 2.7: Asphalt Paver

people, and goods from one place to another. It is an essential part of transportation

infrastructure, providing connectivity between different locations.

2.2.1 Components of Road Structure

Road Structure Cross Section is composed of the following components:

Crown

Camber

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Surface/Wearing Course

Kerbs

Shoulder

Drainage

Base Course

Sub-base

Formation level

Sub Grade

Plate 1.0: Road cross section

Plate 2.1: Road cross section

2.3 EARTH WORKS

earth materials to prepare the site for the construction of the road. Earthworks are essential in

road construction because they provide a stable foundation for the road, improve drainage, and

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prevent erosion. Earthworks play a crucial role in road construction as they provide a stable

foundation for the road, improve drainage, and prevent erosion. The various components of

earthworks, such as excavation, cutting and filling, grading, compaction, and drainage, must be

carefully planned and executed to ensure that the road is safe, stable, and durable.

2.3.1 COMPONENT OF EARTH WORKS

EXCAVATION: Excavation is the process of removing soil, rock, or other materials from the

site of the road construction. This process involves the use of heavy machinery, such as

excavators, bulldozers, and graders. Excavation is essential to prepare the site for the road

construction and to ensure that the road has a level foundation.

CUTTING AND FILLING: Cutting and filling involve the removal of soil from one area of the

road construction site and its placement in another area. This process is essential in areas where

the road needs to be elevated, and the soil needs to be moved to create a level foundation.

Cutting and filling also help to ensure that the road has a consistent gradient.

GRADING: Grading involves the use of graders to level the soil surface to ensure that it is even

and smooth. Grading helps to prevent soil erosion and improves the stability of the road

foundation.

COMPACTION: Compaction is the process of compressing the soil to improve its strength and

stability. This process involves the use of heavy machinery, such as rollers, to compress the soil

and ensure that it is well compacted.

DRAINAGE: Drainage is essential in road construction to prevent water from accumulating on

the road surface, which can cause erosion and damage to the road. Drainage systems, such as

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culverts and ditches, are installed during the earthworks process to ensure that water is directed

away from the road surface.

2.3.2 Process of Asphalt Laying for Pothole Repair

proper adhesion, and a smooth road surface. This process typically includes assessment,

preparation, cleaning, application of tack coat, asphalt placement, compaction, and finishing.

Assessment and Marking: The first step in pothole repair is assessing the damaged area to

determine the extent of the deterioration. Engineers or road maintenance workers evaluate the

depth and width of the pothole to decide on the best repair approach. If the pothole is too deep or

has underlying structural damage, additional measures such as base repairs may be necessary.

The area surrounding the pothole is often marked to guide the cutting process.

Cutting and Excavation: To create a solid foundation for the new asphalt, the pothole is cut into

a rectangular or square shape using a saw or jackhammer. This process removes loose edges and

weak sections around the pothole, ensuring a stable and well-defined repair area. The depth of

the cut depends on the severity of the damage, but typically, it extends a few inches beyond the

affected area to reach stable pavement.

Cleaning and Surface Preparation: Once the pothole has been cut, it must be thoroughly

cleaned to remove dirt, debris, loose asphalt, and water. This is done using air blowers, brooms,

or high-pressure air. If moisture is present, the area is dried with a heat lance or torch to ensure

proper bonding of the new asphalt. Proper cleaning prevents contamination and improves

adhesion between the old and new asphalt layers.

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Application of Tack Coat: A tack coat (a thin layer of bitumen or asphalt emulsion) is applied

to the edges and base of the pothole. The purpose of the tack coat is to enhance adhesion

between the old and new asphalt, reducing the risk of future delamination. It acts as a bonding

agent that helps create a seamless integration of the repaired section with the existing pavement.

Asphalt Placement: Hot mix asphalt (HMA) or cold mix asphalt is then placed into the pothole.

If hot mix asphalt is used, it is transported to the site at a high temperature and poured into the

prepared pothole in layers. The asphalt should be slightly overfilled to compensate for

compaction. For deep potholes, the material is added in layers, with each layer being compacted

before adding the next. Cold mix asphalt is an alternative used for temporary or emergency

repairs and does not require heating.

Compaction: Proper compaction is essential to ensure the durability of the repaired area. A

vibratory plate compactor, hand tamper, or roller is used to compress the asphalt, eliminating air

voids and increasing the material’s density. Compaction must be done uniformly to prevent

premature failure. It also helps the repaired area blend smoothly with the surrounding pavement,

providing a level surface for traffic.

Finishing and Curing: After compaction, the surface is checked to ensure it is flush with the

surrounding pavement. Excess asphalt is removed, and edges are sealed with an asphalt sealer or

crack filler to prevent water infiltration. If necessary, a layer of sand or fine aggregate is applied

to improve traction and prevent sticking. The newly laid asphalt is allowed to cool and harden

before opening the road to traffic.

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2.4 DRAINAGE SYSTEM

One of the most important aspects of the design of a road is the provision made for protecting the

road from surface water or ground water. If water is allowed to enter the structure of the road, the

pavement will be weakened and it will be much more susceptible to damage by traffic. Water

can enter the road as a result of rain penetrating the surface or as a result of the infiltration of

ground water.

The road surface must be constructed with a sufficient camber or crossfall to shed rainwater

quickly and the formation of the road must be raised above the level of the local water table to

prevent it being affected by ground water.

Water can also have a harmful effect on shoulders, slopes, ditches and other features. High water

velocities can cause erosion which, when severe, can lead to the road being cut. Alternatively,

low velocities in drainage facilities can lead to silt being deposited which, in turn, can lead to a

blockage. Blockages often result in further erosion.

A good road drainage system, which is properly maintained, is vital to the successful operation

of a road. It has four main functions:

 To convey rainwater from the surface of the carriageway to outfalls

 To control the level of the water table in the subgrade beneath the carriageway

 To intercept ground and surface water flowing towards the road

 To convey water across the line of the road in a controlled fashion.

The first three functions are performed by side drains and the fourth by culverts, drifts and

bridges.

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2.4.1 A CULVERT

A culvert is an opening through an embankment used for the conveyance of water by mean of

pipe or an enclosed channel, or it is a transverse and totally enclosed drain under a road or

railway. It is typically embedded so as to be surrounded by soil. A culvert may be made from

pipe, reinforced concrete or other material. A structure that carries water above land is known as

aqueduct.

Culverts are commonly used both as cross-drains for ditch relief and to pass water under a road

as natural drainage and stream. A culvert may be a bridge – like structure design to allow vehicle

or pedestrian traffic to cross over the water way while allowing the adequate passage for the

water.

2.4.2 DESILATION OF DRAINS AND CULVERTS

Desiltation of drains and culverts is the process of removing accumulated silt, debris, and other

obstructions to restore the free flow of water. This is crucial in preventing flooding, improving

drainage efficiency, and maintaining infrastructure integrity. The desiltation process involves

several systematic steps, including assessment, planning, excavation, removal of silt, disposal,

and maintenance measures.

Assessment and Inspection: Before desilting begins, a thorough assessment of the drainage

system is conducted. Engineers or maintenance personnel inspect the drains and culverts to

determine the extent of siltation, blockages, and structural damage. This inspection is carried out

using visual checks, measuring instruments, or, in the case of underground culverts, remote

cameras. The assessment helps in planning the appropriate desilting method, whether manual,

mechanical, or hydraulic.

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Planning and Preparation: Once the inspection is completed, a desilting plan is developed. This

includes identifying the necessary equipment, workforce, and safety measures. Proper planning

ensures that desilting is done efficiently with minimal disruption to traffic and surrounding areas.

Temporary road diversions or barricades may be set up to facilitate safe operations, especially

when dealing with major drains along roads.

3. Excavation and Silt Removal

The desilting process begins with the removal of accumulated silt, sediments, and debris from

the drains and culverts. Depending on the size and depth of the drain, different methods are used:

 Manual Desilting: In small drains, laborers use shovels, rakes, and buckets to remove silt

manually. This method is suitable for areas with limited access.

 Mechanical Desilting: Large drains and culverts require the use of excavators, backhoes,

or suction trucks to remove silt efficiently. High-pressure jetting machines may also be

used to break down hardened sediments before extraction.

 Hydraulic Flushing: For underground culverts and pipelines, high-pressure water jets are

employed to flush out sediments. The loosened material is then vacuumed using suction

machines.

Collection and Disposal of Silt: Once the silt and debris are removed, they must be collected and

transported to designated disposal sites.

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 CHAPTER THREE

3.0 TERMINOLOGIES USED DURING SIWES

 Subgrade – The natural soil or prepared layer that serves as the foundation for the road.

 Base Course – A layer of material (such as crushed stone) placed above the subgrade to

provide stability and support for the pavement.

 Pavement – The topmost surface layer of a road, designed to withstand traffic loads and

provide a smooth driving surface.

 Camber – The slight convex curvature of a road surface to facilitate water drainage.

 Culvert – A structure that allows water to flow beneath a road, railway, or embankment.

 Drainage Ditch – A trench or channel designed to collect and direct surface water away

from the road.

 Gutter – A shallow channel at the edge of a road for collecting and directing runoff water.

 Embankment – A raised structure of compacted soil or rock used to support a road above

natural ground level.

 Catch Basin – A drainage structure with an inlet designed to capture runoff water and

direct it into underground pipes.

 Bitumen – A black, sticky substance used in road construction as a binder for asphalt

pavements.

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 CHAPTER FOUR

4.0 SUMMARY CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

4.1 Summary

This report estimate the nature of the S.I.W.E.S program carried out in the Ondo State Ministry

of Works and Infrastructure the program shows the relevance of the scheme as well as the factors

limiting the actualization of the S.I.W.E.S. objectives. However, the following were made from

the program.

4.2 Conclusion

This report estimate the nature of the S.I.W.E.S program showing the relevance of the scheme as

well as the factors limiting the actualization of the S.I.W.E.S. I was exposed to all practical

aspect of Civil Engineering profession. I was introduced to various activities which are: Road

Repair and maintenance I was opportune to partake of all the practices and all the departments.

4.3 Recommendations

The following recommendations were based on the program and as solution to the identified

problems.

 The various bodies involved in the management of the SIWES program should work in hand

with the various industries ahead of turn so as to minimize or reduce the high level of refusal

of to accept student for their industrial training participation.

 Issuing Of Logbooks/It Letter On Time: The logbook used by the student during the

Industrial period and it letter should be issued to the student at the end of 1 st semester exam

against the end of 2nd semester examination as these will afford the student enough time to

search for place that are relevant to their field of study.

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 Proper supervision of the exercise by the various bodies involved in the co-ordination of the

SIWES exercise i.e. Federal Government, I.T.F. should come together to provide a smooth

operation of S.I.W.E.S. exercise. The bodies should make efforts to ensure the student

attached to organization are properly supervised and funded to ensure that what they are

doing is in line with the objectives of S.I.W.E.S. exercise.

 Employment of expert: the various institution should endeavor to employ experts in the area

of student carrier development to manage the student industrial placement centers.

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