NCAT Upgrades Facilities, Secures Global Accreditations To Boost Aviation Training
The Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria, has upgraded its training facilities and secured key international accreditations as part of efforts to strengthen its position as a globally competitive aviation training institution.
The Rector of NCAT, Dr. Danjuma Adamu Ismaila, disclosed this during a media briefing in Zaria, stating that the college had embarked on extensive rehabilitation of its infrastructure despite funding constraints.
According to him, students’ hostels, classrooms and other critical facilities have been renovated and upgraded to meet international standards, while the institution has enhanced its academic programmes to align with global best practices.
“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,” Ismaila said.
He noted that the improvements have enabled the college to retain its Platinum Membership and Centre of Excellence status, while also securing accreditation from the United States-based Aviation Accreditation Board International (AABI).
The rector added that NCAT has regained its affiliation with the International Air Transport Association (IATA), allowing it to offer internationally recognised IATA-certified courses.
The institution has also obtained membership of the National Council for Management Development (NCMD) to run recognised management programmes.
Ismaila further revealed that the college became eligible for intervention funds from the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) after receiving accreditation from the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), describing the development as a major boost to infrastructure development and manpower training.
He said NCAT is also pursuing certification by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which would enable its graduates to obtain internationally recognised licences.
“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,” he said.
The rector also disclosed that the college is close to certifying its Boeing 737 Next Generation (B737-NG) full-flight simulator for commercial operations. He said the simulator, the only one of its kind in Nigeria, is expected to enhance pilot training and generate additional revenue for the institution.
Despite the achievements, Ismaila identified inadequate funding as a major challenge facing the college. He disclosed that one of its TBM training aircraft is currently grounded due to insufficient funds for maintenance and reactivation.
He also expressed concern over the growing demand for aviation training, noting that NCAT currently admits only about 25 pilot trainees every six months because of limited training capacity.
