NCAT Zaria Graduates Air Traffic Control Cadets
In a significant stride towards enhancing aviation communication and safety standards across African airspace, the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria, in collaboration with the African School of Meteorology and Civil Aviation (EAMAC), Niamey, Republic of Niger, has successfully graduated 23 Air Traffic Control cadets tutored on intensive six-week Aviation English Language Course (AVEL-21).
The Rector and Chief Executive Officer of NCAT, Dr. Danjuma Adamu Ismaila, officially declared the programme open in line with the International Civil Aviation Organization(ICAO) training procedures recently. The specialized AVEL immersion programme was designed to equip Air Navigation Service (ANS) professionals from non-English speaking countries with ICAO Level 4 Operational Proficiency in English language communication — a critical requirement for effective communication in international airspace.
Details available on the course indicated that beyond classroom sessions, the curriculum covered key aspects of air navigation service operations, combining language immersion with practical exposure. Participants were immersed in real-time simulation exercises, interactive language labs, and practical modules tailored to aviation-specific scenarios.
At the closing ceremony of the course, one of the graduating cadets, Jamilou, spoke emotionally about his experience during the course, describing the transformative nature of the programme as both rigorous and rewarding.”From our arrival in Abuja, we were welcomed and immediately engaged in two weeks of theoretical courses held at Vichi Gates Hotel and Suites, accompanied with three weeks practical sessions at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport,” he said.”He also noted that, “we rotated through several critical operational units such as Aeronautical Information Services (AIS), the Control Tower, Radar, Ground Control, among others. It was an eye-opening experience that allowed us to see how effective communication is essential to safe and efficient air traffic operations.”
Jamilou expressed deep appreciation for the training and the professionalism of the instructors, noting that the course significantly boosted his confidence and technical vocabulary in English. However, he also pointed out an area in need of improvement.”While the academic and practical components were excellent, one issue we faced was the lack of a swift medical response team at the hotel where we were accommodated. Health and safety should be as prioritized as the training itself,” he added.
Jamilou also extended heartfelt gratitude to the training faculty and coordinators who supported them throughout the course.”I want to sincerely thank entire NCAT staff, the staff at Abuja Airport, and specifically to Mrs. Maiwada, Mr. Sunny, Mr. Sagir, Mrs. Quansah, Mr. NasiruMuazu, the Dean of ATS/COMM School, and all the personnel whose unwavering commitment, experience, and coordination made this programme successful. Your guidance and professionalism have left a lasting impression on us, and we are truly grateful.”
NCAT’s collaboration with EAMAC underscores a strong regional commitment to enhancing aviation safety and operational standards through cross-border training initiatives. Graduates of the course are now equipped to operate in international airspace with improved communication capabilities, enhancing safety and operational efficiency in their respective home countries.
Speaking during the graduation ceremony, Dr. Danjuma emphasized the importance of effective communication in the aviation sector, stating:“This programme is a testament to NCAT’s commitment to regional cooperation and capacity building in aviation safety. It represents a key investment in the future of African aviation. By equipping and strengthening cadets with the language tools and operational insight they need, we are directly contributing to safer skies and more effective coordination across borders. Specifically, strengthening the foundation of safe airspace operations across Africa.”
Dr. Danjuma also praised the cadets’ dedication and emphasized the significance of the programme, which reflects the commitment of both leading institutions in aviation training on the continent to fostering regional cooperation and raising operational standards in aviation.
With their new certifications and hands-on experience, the graduates are expected to return to their respective countries with renewed capability to manage air traffic with improved clarity, confidence, and compliance with international standards.
The graduation event was attended by aviation stakeholders and representatives from both NCAT and EAMAC, who lauded the success of the programme and reaffirmed their commitment to continued collaboration.
