The African Aviation and Aerospace University (AAAU) has matriculated over 90 students for the 2023–2024 academic session.
Speaking at the matriculation ceremony in Abuja on Wednesday, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, stated, “It is with immense joy and pride that I stand before you today to witness the maiden matriculation of the African Aviation and Aerospace University (AAAU).
“Today, we mark the beginning of a journey that will undoubtedly shape the future of aviation and aerospace in our nation and beyond.”.
Keyamo explained that “our journey has been driven by a compelling vision to create a robust long-term manpower development plan, addressing the critical human resource gaps within the aviation sector.
“The demand for skilled professionals in aviation and aerospace is ever-growing, and I am confident that the staff and students of AAAU will eventually lead the world in research and development, paving the way for significant advancements within the industry.
“Today’s event transcends a mere matriculation; it symbolises the commencement and take-off of an institution destined for greatness.
“We have just witnessed the matriculation of 30 pioneer undergraduate students and 60 pioneer postgraduate students in various disciplines of aviation and environmental science.
“The AAAU is a brainchild of the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, conceptualised by the immediate past administration.
“Upon my appointment as Minister of Aviation last year, I met the university at its cradle, just about to commence admissions for the 2023/2024 academic session.”.
The Minister further stated that “under my watch, the university has now secured a permanent site right here on Bill Clinton Drive, where I had the honour of performing the groundbreaking ceremony before coming here.
“This site will house the construction of a Faculty of Aviation Management, two auditoriums with a collective seating capacity of 600, a School of Postgraduate Studies, a central library, and a research centre, among other key infrastructures.
“This was achievable with the approval of a take-off grant for capital projects by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu through TETFund.”
He said, “Our mission is to ensure that Nigeria not only keeps pace with global developments in aviation and aerospace but also sets new standards.
“In pursuit of this mission, we have established AAAU as a centre of excellence where cutting-edge research and innovation are not just encouraged but are the cornerstone of our academic programmes.
“The curriculum, in collaboration with international experts in the field of aviation education from renowned specialised aviation institutions, has been meticulously designed to blend theoretical knowledge with practical experience while tailored to fit our own local peculiarities, ensuring that our graduates are well-prepared to tackle the challenges of the aviation industry and beyond,” he stated.
The minister charged the students to utilise the opportunity by excelling in their respective fields.
“To our new students, you are embarking on a journey that will not only shape your future but also the future of aviation and aerospace.
“As I told you, the undergraduate students, during my previous visit to your lecture room, you are the pioneers of this great institution, and with that comes the responsibility to set high standards and maintain good morals to pave the way for those who will follow.
“As you all are encouraged to graduate with distinction in both character and learning, embrace the opportunities before you, strive for excellence, and remember that you are not just students of AAAU but ambassadors of Nigeria’s aviation and aerospace future.”.
He revealed, “I am pleased to also state here that a new Vice-Chancellor will be announced soon, following the directive of Mr President. You should be rest assured that this appointment will mark a significant step in consolidating your achievements thus far.”
The Registrar of the University, Mustapha Sheikh Abdullahi, administered the matriculation oath to the students.
Share this post
Be the first to comment on this post