Nigerian aviation college upgrades facilities, secures global accreditation despite funding woes

The Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT) in Zaria has achieved significant upgrades and international accreditations, demonstrating resilience despite ongoing funding challenges. Rector Danjuma Ismaila detailed the institution's extensive reforms aimed at restoring NCAT to global standards.

Ismaila stated that the college inherited a system needing substantial improvements. His administration has since focused on enhancing infrastructure and academic programs. Key achievements include rehabilitating student hostels and classrooms to meet international standards. NCAT has maintained its Platinum Membership and Centre of Excellence status and secured accreditation from the U.S.-based Aviation Accreditation Board International.

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We inherited a system that required significant reforms and upgrades. Since coming on board, we have focused on improving our infrastructure and strengthening our academic programmes to align with international best practices.

Further bolstering its credentials, NCAT gained membership in the National Council for Management Development, allowing it to offer recognized management programs. It also restored its affiliation with the International Air Transport Association, enabling the delivery of globally recognized IATA-certified courses. The college also became a beneficiary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund after accreditation by the National Board for Technical Education, a development expected to boost infrastructure and training.

The institution is actively working towards European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) certification. Ismaila explained that EASA certification would provide NCAT graduates, including pilots and air traffic controllers, with dual certification, significantly enhancing their global employability without requiring additional licensing in many countries. Additionally, the college is nearing the certification of its Boeing 737 Next Generation full-flight simulator for commercial operations, which would be the first of its kind in Nigeria, strengthening pilot training and generating new revenue streams.

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When we achieve EASA certification, our graduates, including pilots and air traffic controllers, will receive dual certification, making them employable across the world without undergoing additional licensing requirements in many countries.