Acting Rector of NCAT Appeals for Increased Funding
… says Boeing 737 simulator to commence operations soon
The Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria, Kaduna State, has received recertification from the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
This milestone underscores the institution’s adherence to global aviation training standards.
The Acting Rector of NCAT, Mr Joseph Shaka Imalighwe, described the achievement as a testament to the college’s commitment to excellence.
He outlined his vision of transitioning NCAT from traditional to digital training models, working in collaboration with other training institutions and universities to enhance the curriculum.
Mr Imalighwe appealed to the Federal Government and the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development to increase budgetary allocations to NCAT.
He stressed that the college’s status as an ICAO TrainAir Plus Training Centre of Excellence demands substantial resources to maintain and upgrade its facilities.
“The college needs more funding to complete critical capital projects, including lecture theatres, offices, hostels, and ICT equipment,” he stated.
He also emphasised the necessity of purchasing a dedicated fire tender for the recently established Airport Emergency Training (AET) School and acquiring about 200 computers for the ICT Centre.
Achievements Amid Challenges
Despite significant strides, including the establishment of the AET School and collaboration with the Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG), Mr Imalighwe highlighted several challenges facing NCAT.
These include inadequate training facilities, such as classrooms and hostels, high aviation gasoline costs, a shortage of specialised instructors due to industry attrition, encroachment on college land, and ageing infrastructure.
“Our annual budget envelope of N3 billion is insufficient to address the ongoing projects, which exceed three times that amount. Increased funding is crucial to achieving our objectives and elevating the college to greater heights,” he explained.
Addressing the status of NCAT’s Boeing 737 simulator, which has been inactive for some time, Mr Imalighwe revealed that the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo, has sent experts to evaluate the simulator.
“They will soon commence work on it, and once the NCAA certifies it, the simulator will be fully operational,” he assured.
He also noted the college’s recent purchase of Zaria Hotel to address accommodation shortages. Renovation works have commenced, and a contractor has been engaged to build a 150-room guest facility to supplement the inadequate hostel capacity.
Commendation for Cooperation
The Rector commended the Minister of Aviation for his support and collaboration, which he said has facilitated many of the college’s achievements. He also praised the management and staff of NCAT for their dedication.
“The ICAO Centre of Excellence regional officials recently recertified us after three years, and they had high praise for the college. Similarly, NCAA recertified us a week later, reflecting smooth collaboration with these organisations,” he stated.
Looking ahead, Mr Imalighwe affirmed the college’s commitment to sustaining its progress, improving training facilities, and addressing the challenges impeding its growth. “NCAT is on a trajectory to become a global leader in aviation training,” he said.
