In a groundbreaking move that shatters stereotypes, the Dangote Cement Plc, Transport division, has witnessed a fourfold increase in the enrollment of female truck drivers at the renowned Dangote Articulated Truck Driving School. This pioneering institution, situated in Obajana, Kogi State, marks a historic milestone for Nigeria.
With the commencement of the 2023 Batch A session, the Dangote Articulated Truck Driving School has warmly welcomed 50 fresh trainee drivers, including 10 determined and trailblazing female participants. Mr. Ajay Singh, Divisional Director of Transport, highlighted the exceptional nature of this initiative and emphasized the strict adherence to rules and regulations governing road usage.
To ensure the highest standards of training, the academy has partnered with both the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and the esteemed Fantique Driving Training Centre of South Africa. Mr. Singh emphasized the exemplary performance of female drivers in past assessments, where they consistently demonstrated exceptional caution and secured numerous accolades within the company.
Mr. Daniel Marcus Akuso, the school manager, shed light on the diverse range of courses offered at the institution. Trainees are exposed to subjects such as Civic Education, English, Mathematics, Defensive Driving, Truck Handling, Maintenance Technology, DCT Administration Procedures, Root Cause Analysis, Health and Science, and Road Signs and Codes.
Engr Mukhtar Umar, the deputy Road Commandant (OC Instructor) of the FRSC attached to the Dangote Driving School, highlighted the crucial role his agency plays in training and certifying both experienced drivers and newly recruited trainees. The curriculum includes comprehensive instruction on defensive driving, road signs, driver responsibilities, and driving culture, culminating in the certification of successful graduates.
Participants of the program, such as Oshile Victoria, a 30-year-old Economics graduate, expressed immense gratitude for the opportunity. Describing her selection as a stroke of luck, she eagerly anticipates embarking on this transformative journey. Another trainee, a 35-year-old from Katsina State, described the experience as a dream come true, while Fatima Haruna Adamu, a 27-year-old aspiring army recruit, sees the driving school as a means to fulfill her aspirations, firmly believing in breaking gender barriers.
The executive secretary of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), Professor Idris Bugaje, affirmed the partnership between the NBTE and Dangote Cement Plc in executing the school’s progressive program. This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to empowering individuals and fostering gender inclusivity in the field of professional driving.
As the Dangote Truck Driving School paves the way for a new generation of skilled drivers, it not only equips trainees with the necessary skills but also nurtures a culture of diversity, empowerment, and road safety. With each mile traveled, these remarkable women are redefining boundaries and proving that what a person can achieve knows no gender limits.