The Federal University of Transportation, Daura, Katsina State, has officially matriculated its first set of 478 students during a maiden ceremony held over the weekend.
The institution was developed with the support of the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC). The company received praise from the Federal Government for its commitment to the university as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).
Speaking at the event, the minister of transportation, Senator Said Alkali, applauded CCECC for its multifaceted support in establishing the university and contributing to the success of the matriculation ceremony.
He emphasised the importance of education in driving national development and urged the students to fully utilise the opportunity to enhance their knowledge and contribute to the nation’s economy.
Senator Alkali also highlighted that the Federal University of Transportation has been earmarked for funding through the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) for the 2025 fiscal year.
He noted that despite the university’s gate bearing the name ‘Muhammadu Buhari University of Transportation,’ its official designation remains the Federal University of Transportation, Daura.
The minister praised Katsina State’s hospitality, particularly Governor Dikko Radda, for supporting the university’s establishment.
Reflecting on the progress made since his visit in October 2023, Alkali recounted that the institution was initially staffed only by its vice-chancellor, with no other personnel. Despite these challenges, the university managed to kickstart academic activities for the 2023/2024 session.
He further expressed the government’s appreciation to CCECC for its efforts in the university’s first development phase. He urged the company to continue supporting the institution as it embarks on the second phase of its expansion.
Additionally, Alkali disclosed that President Bola Tinubu had approved the university’s financing under the 2024 Appropriation Act, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to higher education.
The university’s pioneer vice-chancellor, Prof. Umar Adam-Katsayal, revealed that JAMB had approved a quota of 500 students for the 2023/2024 academic session.
The university received over 1,250 applications, prompting a request for an additional 10% of the approved quota, which JAMB granted. Ultimately, 478 students were admitted across 14 academic programmes.
Minister Alkali represented President Bola Tinubu, who serves as a visitor to the institution, at the event.
Other notable attendees included Adeoye Adeleye, permanent secretary of the Federal Ministry of Transportation, the Guest of Honour, and Dr Mercy Ilori, director of transport planning and coordination in the ministry, who serves on the university’s Governing Council.
The matriculation marks a significant milestone for the university as it begins its mission to train skilled professionals in the transportation sector.
