The Federal University of Transportation, Daura in Katsina State has unveiled a bold plan to give its students international exposure through practical training in China, Russia, and the United Kingdom.
This initiative was shared by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Umar Katsayal, during a recent media briefing at the university campus in Daura. According to him, the move is part of a wider effort to raise academic standards and align students’ learning with global best practices.
To achieve this, the university is partnering with a Chinese construction company involved in building the institution. Through this collaboration, students will benefit from a structured study model: three years of theory-based learning in Nigeria, followed by two years of hands-on training abroad.
Katsayal referenced a similar effort made between 2018 and 2019, when the Federal Government and the same Chinese firm selected students from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria—particularly those in civil and mechanical engineering—for a two-year practical programme in China. These students followed a “three plus two” model and now serve as pioneering academic staff at the university.
“The university intends for its students to spend three years studying theory domestically, followed by two years abroad in countries such as China, Russia, and the United Kingdom to complete their practical training,” he said.
Despite being a relatively new institution, the Vice-Chancellor acknowledged the university faces challenges, especially with funding. He called on the Federal Government to provide more support to address rising operational and maintenance costs.
On a brighter note, the university has now been included among the institutions eligible for TETFund support, which Katsayal believes will greatly enhance infrastructure and staff development.
He also shared plans for innovation in teaching and learning, such as smart classrooms, expanded virtual learning platforms, and sustainability projects like solar-powered facilities and green campus initiatives.
Looking ahead, the university aims to introduce new programmes in transportation security, aviation technology, smart transport systems, and sustainable urban mobility. It also plans to offer short and executive courses tailored for professionals.
Research will focus on emerging areas like autonomous vehicles and green logistics, further strengthening academic capacity and industry partnerships.
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