The skills shortage in the aviation industry in South Africa is set to receive a welcome boost following a meeting between Minister of Transport, Sibusiso Ndebele, and the President of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Council, Mr Roberto Kobeh Gonzalez, in Pretoria earlier today, 13 August 2009.
Training and scholarships in civil aviation disciplines for South Africans was one of the key areas of discussion at the meeting.
"There is currently a world-wide skills shortage in the aviation industry and this partnership will add to several other initiatives being implemented to increase the number of skilled personnel in the industry in South Africa. However, more young people must pursue careers in aviation.
"The safety, security, efficiency and regularity of air navigation and harmonious progress of international civil aviation rely on the continuous training of aviation personnel. Therefore, assistance and cooperation in the field of specialised aviation training is of paramount importance," said Minister Ndebele.
The Department of Transport and ICAO have jointly agreed to develop and implement a training plan for South Africa. The main purpose of the training plan is to:
* provide training in Aviation Disciplines;
* assist South Africa to mobilise resources for training through trilateral arrangements with willing partners
* to ensure that the training provided augments South Africa’s capabilities in building skills in Aviation Disciplines which are conducive to the promotion of the safety, security and development of civil aviation.
Mr Gonzalez said that safety is the number one priority for ICAO. "Training is key to safety. This training initiative between ICAO and South Africa is very exciting. South Africa will indicate the areas in which they require training and ICAO will assist," said Gonzalez.
Other issues discussed at the meeting included the 2010 FIFA World Cup, aviation and climate change and aviation security.
Enquiries:
Logan Maistry
Cell: 083 644 4050
Issued by: Department of Transport
13 August 2009
