NCAT RETAINS ITS CERTIFICATION FROM THE ICAO AND NCAA 01-11-24
By Sadiq Aminu The Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT) has successfully retained its certification from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
Acting Rector, NCAT, Mr. Joseph Imalighwe in a chat with newsmen in Lagos said, the recertification affirms the college’s adherence to international aviation training standards.
He expressed pride in the achievement, highlighting the institution’s transition from traditional to digital training methods.
According to him, NCAT is actively collaborating with other training institutions and universities to enhance its curriculum.
The NCAT Rector appealed to the federal government for increased funding to support capital projects and maintain the college’s status as an ICAO TrainAir Plus Training Centre of Excellence.
He maintained that adequate funding would help to address infrastructure deficits, acquire essential equipment, and provide training for instructors.
“We want the federal government to increase our annual budget, we need lecture theatres, offices, meeting rooms, hostels.
Mr. Imalighwe also announced the establishment of the Airport Emergency Training (AET) School to provide specialized training in firefighting and emergency procedures.
Despite significant strides in the past year, NCAT faces challenges such as inadequate facilities, high operational costs, staff attrition and grappling with land encroachment, security concerns, and aging infrastructure.
Regarding the inactive Boeing 737 simulator, the Rector confirmed that the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development has dispatched experts to assess and repair the equipment and once certified by the NCAA, the simulator would be operational.
“The Boeing 737 simulator, the minister has sent some people to come and evaluate it, they will soon start work on it, it will be functioning once NCAA certifies it because initially they said they needed training on it to be able to do the certification.”
He commended the support of the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development and the cooperation of NCAT staff.
The college’s recent achievements include the acquisition of Zaria Hotel for accommodation and the ongoing construction of a 150-room guest house.