The Aviation Pathways Programme is a collaboration between the South African Institution of Mechanical Engineering (SAIMechE) and the Central University of Technology (CUT). It aims to provide mechanical and electrical engineering students with a structured journey into aviation.

It’s a pathway to advance towards professional pathways such as aircraft maintenance technicians or engineers (mechanical and avionics), design and manufacturing, as well as other related aerospace careers.

This unique partnership was born from a student’s idea. An organiser named Nicolas Ratlala recognised the need for greater student engagement with the aviation industry. He is a mechanical engineering student at CUT and a former aircraft maintenance theory student who also holds a drone pilot licence.

Nicolas Ratlala with Thabo Makgoba and Ayanda Bolitye, fellow students at SAIMechE. Photo: Nicolas Ratlala

“I attended an event organised by them where they introduced themselves, and they suggested that if anyone had an idea that could elevate students of CUT and somehow bring opportunities to them, they should come forward. That is when I suggested the idea: what if I start an organisation, or rather a programme, to introduce aviation to our students?” said Ratlala.

The programme will be measured by its ability to create tangible opportunities for students. This includes raising awareness among key industry players such as the South African Civil Aviation Authority, airlines, and flight schools.

According to Ratlala, through educational workshops, guest lectures and technical sessions, the programme will facilitate connections that could potentially lead to bursaries, internships and sponsorships. The programme plans to engage approximately 70 mechanical and electrical engineering students studying in relevant fields.

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Looking beyond the 3 September launch, the long-term vision is to foster a new generation of skilled, job-ready professionals.

“If all goes well, our students will be equipped with bursaries and will have secured internships after graduating in mechanical or electrical engineering, which will give them a better chance of finding employment in aviation.

“They will have the skills and the necessary knowledge to excel in aviation, and they will understand how to navigate the industry.”

His biggest hope for aviation in South Africa is that the country reaches the level of global leaders such as the USA and China. “On the list of aviation success, we rank quite low… if South Africa could just level up.

“That’s where this programme comes in – it’s a foundation, a strong foundation for that success. It means we’re preparing the future aviation workforce to ensure an upward trajectory that boosts both the industry and its success in South Africa.”

OFM News/Refilwe Bekane  cvs