By Mahdi Waziri Isa
The Federal University of Transportation, Daura (FUTD) has made a significant impact at the Russian-African Network of Transport University (RANTU) summit held in Moscow, Russia.
The two-day event, which took place from October 21-22, 2024, brought together 19 transport educational institutions from Russia and African universities specializing in transportation programs.
The network seeks to develop a sustainable transport environment, train qualified personnel, and provide scientific and expert support for joint initiatives in transport infrastructure.
In a press release signed by the Chief Information and Communication Officer of the University, Umar Usman, Hon. Prof. Umar Adam Katsayal, Vice-Chancellor of FUTD, delivered a presentation titled “Russian-African Network Transport University Project: Commitment of the Federal University of Transportation, Daura – Nigeria.”
According to Prof. Katsayal, “The University’s research focuses on transportation systems optimization; transport infrastructure development; logistics and supply chain management; transport policy and planning; and intelligent transportation systems.” Other research areas include environmental sustainability, public transport systems, transport safety and security, human capital development, and innovation in transportation technology and entrepreneurship.
Prof. Katsayal noted that the University faces challenges such as infrastructure development, shortage of skilled personnel in the areas of transport technology, limited research funding, rapid technological advancement, and integration of technology and digital divide.
The University is open to collaborations with intending partners in areas including emerging technologies and green energy, intelligent transport systems, transport security, public transportation access, logistics management, health and safety in transportation, smart pipeline systems, and data management systems.
On FUTD’s commitment to RANTU, Prof. Katsayal emphasized that “The University is committed to curriculum mapping and development; staff and student exchange programs; joint graduate top-up programs; joint research and publications; capacity building and training; as well as joint construction and consulting projects in African countries.”
The university was represented at the event by Vice-Chancellor Hon. Prof. Umar Adam Katsayal and Director Academic Planning and Monitoring, Prof. Ahmad Abubakar.