Meteorological institute Katsina matriculates 114 pioneer students

The Meteorological Institute of Science and Technology (MIST), Katsina has matriculated its first set of students.

Briefing journalists on the sideline of the event, the Minister of Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika, said the essence of establishing the institute in Katsina, was in response to the need to increase human resources in the area of meteorology which was neglected and misunderstood for a long time.

“It is an area which cut across healthcare, education, construction, marine, civil aviation, military aviation and all those other aspects of life, including farming, culture and so on,” he said.

“MIST has been established with a vision to be an Instruction of Excellence for Effective Capacity Development in Meteorology and Climate Sciences.

“Its mission is to provide quality training and tailored research experience in meteorological, hydrological and climate-related sciences for indigenous and international community of atmospheric scientists,” Sirika said.

The minister also gave gladdening news on the planned Pan-African Aviation University which he said was coming up next session.

“Permit me to share with you here the ongoing effort by the Federal Ministry of Aviation toward the establishment of a Pan-African Aviation University with the aim of closing existing and future capacity gaps within aviation and aerospace as a critical sector of national and global developments.

“The African Aviation and Aerospace University (AAAU) will produce world-class experts/graduates in aviation and aerospace science to service the increasing demand for aviation courses for pilots and aeronautical professionals that can compete globally in the aviation business,” he said.

He thanked the Katsina State government for providing the structure where the institute took off and called on the government and the host community to give the institute their maximum support to attain its overall aim.

A total of 114 students were matriculated during the event which was well attended by government functionaries, traditional leaders as well as parents and friends of the new intakes.