South Africa's NW Government to Establish Aviation Academy

The North West government of South Africa is considering to establish an aviation academy, at the Mafikeng Airport. This will help lure learners in the province and the entire African Continent to study aviation at the academy.

Speaking during the celebration of the International Aviation Day at the Mafikeng Airport in North West Premier Edna Molewa said the only nearest academy was in Australia.

"Everyone who is interested in aviation studies there and having one here will ensure that our young people interested in aviation study close to their homes," Mr Molewa said. He said the government had been engaged in discussions with the local traditional leadership in the quest to acquire the land.

The Premier's proposal was echoed by the CEO of the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) Zakes Myeza. He said there was sufficient infrastructure in North West and believed setting up an academy would be an appropriate move.

Together with the Bisho Airport and the Northern Cape Airport, Mafikeng Airport is identified as one of the airports to serve as entry points during the World Cup showpiece.

The government has put in place plans to ensure that during the World Cup some of the officials will be accommodated at the airport to offload congestion expected at the OR Tambo international airport and Cape Town international.

It is expected that South Africa's main airport will have an additional 300 000 international passengers and approximately 50 000 officials, sponsors and other guests over the five week period in 2010.

Myeza said there was a high demand for aviation academics.

He said they would be engaging tertiary institutions to put aviation programmes high in their curriculum.

"There is a shortage of aviation professionals in the aviation community and even the ones we have are being recruited by international institutions. We encourage learners to consider aviation," said Myeza.

Learners from local schools were urged to consider taking aviation related careers. [Get full story ¦ All Africa]