Computer Science students from the College of Education (COE), Zing, Taraba State, gained firsthand exposure to advanced ICT infrastructure during an educational field trip to the American University of Nigeria (AUN), Yola, on the 23rd September, 2026 connecting classroom theory with the technologies used to operate a modern university.
The visit introduced the delegation to AUN’s technology ecosystem, including satellite communications, enterprise networking, hardware and software management, cybersecurity, digital communication systems, and electronic library services.
The delegation was welcomed by AUN IT Director Mr. Abdul Murtala and Network Manager Mr. Daniel Waziri. Mr. Murtala encouraged the students to embrace continuous learning and make the most of opportunities to gain practical knowledge.
“The facilities and technologies you see across our campus reflect the standard of quality expected at a global university,” Mr. Murtala said. “Maintaining this level of infrastructure takes immense dedication and capital investment. I encourage you to take full advantage of this exposure, appreciate the vital role modern technology plays in higher education, and let this experience inspire and motivate your academic pursuits.”
Mr. Waziri explained that AUN’s smart-campus model goes beyond providing internet connectivity and computers, with interconnected systems supporting teaching, administration, communication, and campus operations.
“At AUN, operating a ‘smart campus’ goes far beyond having fast internet or computers,” Mr. Waziri said. “It is about building an interconnected ecosystem where technology actively solves human and institutional problems. Whether through satellite communications, centralized database management, digital library networks, or campus security systems, our infrastructure supports seamless learning and security.”
The visitors toured several of AUN’s technical facilities, beginning with the Communication Units and Communication Room, where they observed systems used to support information sharing across the University. They then visited the SATCOM Center to learn about satellite communications and its role in maintaining reliable connectivity.
At Admin II, the group explored the Hardware/Software Unit and Network Unit, where technical staff demonstrated system diagnostics, hardware maintenance, software deployment, troubleshooting, enterprise networking, wireless connectivity, internet access management, and cybersecurity practices.
The tour concluded at the University Library, where the visitors learned how physical collections are complemented by electronic databases and online library services, giving students and faculty access to academic resources beyond the physical library.
The tour provided the visiting students with a clearer understanding of how concepts learned in the classroom are applied in a technology-driven university environment.
“My experience here showed me how a Metropolitan Area Network works practically,” said Senu Justin, one of the visiting students. “We saw how people work online, apply for admissions, view security camera networks, and access library cataloging remotely. AUN has truly adapted to the global digital era.”
The visit also impressed the faculty members accompanying the delegation. Mr. Olumile Mathew Theophilus, a Computer Science lecturer at COE Zing, praised AUN’s infrastructure and the practical learning opportunities the visit provided.
“AUN is a great institution,” Mr. Olumile said. “The experience we got today was massive. There are facilities I saw here today that I have never seen in my entire life. The infrastructure operates on a much higher grade. It has been a deeply educating experience for us all.”
The field trip gave the COE Zing delegation a closer look at how ICT systems support teaching, administration, communication, security, and access to information at a modern university, while helping students better understand the technologies and skills shaping today’s IT environment.
Report by Jummai Paul