A total of 627 aviation professionals graduated in a ceremony held at the newly upgraded Ethiopian Aviation University, the largest aviation education centre in Africa.
“Human capital development is one of the key pillars in Ethiopian Airlines’ growth strategy. As the largest aviation centre of excellence in the continent, we are keen to provide Africa with skilled aviation professionals,” said Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO, Mesfin Tasew.
The graduates were trainees in the University’s Pilot, Aircraft Maintenance Technician, Cabin Crew & Catering, and Commercial & Ground Services programmes. They included 228 male and 306 female aviation professionals in the following specialisations:
- 88 pilots
- 125 aircraft technicians
- 150 cabin crew
- 264 commercial trainees
Ethiopian Aviation University has been accredited by the Ethiopian Higher Education Relevance and Quality Agency to offer undergraduate and graduate degree programmes in various aviation and hospitality fields.
Currently, the university offers qualifications that include BScs in Aeronautical Engineering, Aviation Maintenance Engineering, Aviation Management & Operations; BAs in Tourism & Hospitality Management; an MSc in Data Science; and an MBA in Aviation Management. It also offers diplomas and certificate programmes for aircraft maintenance technicians; pilot, cabin crew, commercial and catering training; leadership and career development; and ICAO and Online Courses.
Ethiopian Airlines also owns training facilities in Hawassa, Dire-Dawa, Bahir-Dar and Mekelle.
Speaking during a webinar, Kamil Al Awadhi, Iata Regional VP for Africa and the Middle East, said Africa held great potential for securing the continuity of its aviation industry.
“One seventh of Planet Earth’s population is in Africa and the largest group of youth are in Africa. There is a lot of potential in human skills here and we, with our partner and stakeholders, will develop this youth for our aviation industry,” said Al Awadhi.
According to Iata, its goals for its Focus Africa: Future Skills programme for the end of Q1-2024 are to develop the future aviators on the continent, with Ethiopia in the lead.
