By Peter Omopo
The Federal University of Transportation, Daura, Katsina State, has announced plans to send its students abroad for practical training in a bid to enhance their academic experience and align with global standards in transport education.
Vice-Chancellor of the university, Professor Umar Adam, made the disclosure during a media briefing in Daura on Wednesday. He said the initiative is part of the university’s collaboration with the Chinese company handling its construction and development.
According to Adam, the plan involves adopting a “3+2” academic model where students will spend three years studying theoretical components in Nigeria before proceeding to countries such as China, Russia, and the United Kingdom for two years of hands-on practical training.
“In 2018 and 2019, the Federal Government, in partnership with the Chinese company, selected and sent students from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria—particularly from civil and mechanical engineering—for a two-year practical programme in China,” Adam explained. “Those students, after undergoing rigorous training, now serve as part of the pioneer academic team at the Federal University of Transportation, Daura.”
He noted that the same model would now be extended to students of the new institution, ensuring they receive a balanced mix of theoretical and practical education.
The Vice-Chancellor also highlighted ongoing collaborations with major local and international stakeholders, including key transportation regulatory agencies, to strengthen the university’s academic and research capacity.
The university, which was established to bridge the gap in transport-related higher education in Nigeria, is expected to become a centre of excellence in railway and general transportation studies.
