In a major move to enhance its academic offerings and global relevance, the Federal University of Transportation, Daura, Katsina State, has announced plans to enrol its students in international practical training programmes in China, Russia, and the United Kingdom.
Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Umar Katsayal, made this known during a media briefing held at the university premises in Daura on Thursday. He explained that the initiative forms part of the institution’s strategic collaboration with its Chinese construction partner and other global transport industry stakeholders.
According to Katsayal, the academic structure will adopt a ‘three plus two’ model — with students spending three years studying theory in Nigeria before proceeding abroad for two years of hands-on practical training.
“This model is designed to expose our students to world-class transport systems and innovations, preparing them to tackle the challenges of Nigeria’s transportation sector,” he stated.
Katsayal also recalled a similar programme implemented in 2018 and 2019, where students from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, specialising in civil and mechanical engineering, were selected and sent to China for a two-year practical programme. Many of those graduates now serve as academic pioneers within the university.
The Vice-Chancellor acknowledged the financial hurdles faced by the young institution, urging the Federal Government to provide increased funding to meet operational, infrastructural, and maintenance demands.
TETFund Support and New Programmes on the Horizon
Katsayal revealed that the Federal University of Transportation, Daura has now been listed among institutions eligible for Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) support — a development expected to improve academic infrastructure, staff training, and research capacity.
In line with global trends, the university is integrating smart technology into its curriculum, including plans for smart classrooms, expanded virtual learning platforms, and eco-friendly initiatives such as solar-powered facilities and a green campus.
New academic programmes set to launch soon include Transportation Security, Aviation Technology, Smart Transport Systems, and Sustainable Urban Mobility. Additionally, short and executive courses will be introduced to cater to transport professionals and industry executives.
Advancing Research in Smart Mobility and Green Logistics
The Vice-Chancellor emphasized the university’s commitment to pioneering research in cutting-edge fields like autonomous vehicles, green logistics, and intelligent transportation systems. Plans are also underway to bolster industry partnerships and further develop academic staff through international exposure and training.
“Our vision is to position this university as a centre of excellence in transport education and research — not just in Nigeria, but across Africa,” Katsayal affirmed.
