Federal University of Transportation, Daura Matriculates First Set of Students

The Federal University of Transportation, Daura, Katsina State, has officially matriculated its inaugural cohort of 478 students during a historic ceremony held over the weekend. This milestone event signifies a major step forward for the institution, which was established with significant support from the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), recognized by the Federal Government for its commitment to education as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives.

At the ceremony, the Minister of Transportation, Senator Said Alkali, praised CCECC for its vital role in the establishment of the university and for contributing to the success of the matriculation event. He emphasized the critical role of education in fostering national development and urged the newly admitted students to take full advantage of their educational opportunities to enhance their knowledge and positively impact the nation’s economy.

Senator Alkali also announced that the Federal University of Transportation has been earmarked for funding through the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) for the upcoming 2025 fiscal year. He clarified that, although the university's gate displays the name 'Muhammadu Buhari University of Transportation,' its official designation remains the Federal University of Transportation, Daura.

Highlighting the state’s support, Alkali expressed gratitude for the hospitality shown by Katsina State, particularly Governor Dikko Radda, which has been instrumental in the university’s establishment. He reflected on the institution's rapid progress since his visit in October 2023, noting that it began with only its vice-chancellor and no additional staff. Despite these challenges, the university successfully commenced academic activities for the 2023/2024 session.

Further emphasizing the government's dedication to higher education, Alkali revealed that President Bola Tinubu has approved financing for the university under the 2024 Appropriation Act. The pioneer vice-chancellor, Prof. Umar Adam-Katsayal, shared that the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) had allocated a quota of 500 students for the current academic session. The university received over 1,250 applications, leading to a request for an additional 10% of the quota, which JAMB granted, resulting in the admission of 478 students across 14 academic programs.

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, and Dr. Mercy Ilori, director of transport planning and coordination, who serves on the university’s Governing Council.

This matriculation ceremony marks a significant milestone for the Federal University of Transportation as it embarks on its mission to train skilled professionals for the transportation sector in Nigeria.