The Federal University of Transportation, Daura, is set to launch an international practical training programme that will send its students to China and Russia for hands-on experience as part of their academic curriculum.
The university‘s Vice Chancellor, Professor Umar Adam-Katsayal, made this known on Wednesday in Daura while presenting his two-year scorecard to journalists.
He said the plan was already in motion through a strategic partnership with the Chinese company currently handling the university‘s construction.
“In 2018 and 2019, the Federal Government, in collaboration with the same company, selected and trained engineering students from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, who went to China for a two-year practical after completing their theory courses at home,” he said.
He noted that some of those students are now among the university’s pioneer academic staff and are helping to prepare current students for the proposed international training scheme.
According to the vice-chancellor, the model will see students spend three years in Nigeria studying theoretical concepts, followed by two years abroad, split between China and Russia, for practical application.
Prof. Adam-Katsayal also highlighted other milestones, including the university‘s recent inclusion among institutions eligible for TETFund support, which he said would significantly boost academic infrastructure and staff development.
He added that the university has collaborated with local and international institutions, including major transport regulatory agencies, to enhance the quality of education and research.
Looking ahead, the vice chancellor disclosed that the university would be expanding its campus infrastructure to include new lecture halls, laboratories, workshops, and accommodation facilities.
“We’re integrating modern technology in our teaching with plans to introduce smart classrooms and virtual learning platforms,” he said.
Sustainability is also a key focus, with initiatives like solar-powered facilities and a green campus environment underway.
New academic programmes are set to be introduced in areas such as transportation security, aviation technology, intelligent transport systems, and sustainable urban mobility. In addition, short and executive courses will soon be launched to cater to the needs of working professionals.
The university plans to intensify research in cutting-edge areas, including autonomous vehicles and green logistics.
Despite these strides, Prof. Adam-Katsayal admitted the institution faces serious funding challenges. “We urgently need additional resources to cope with the rising costs of running and maintaining infrastructure,” he said.
The Federal University of Transportation Daura is Nigeria‘s first institution dedicated to transport education and research. It supported the country‘s growing transportation needs and technological advancements.
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