Cape Town - In an inspiring effort to empower the youth from previously under-represented communities, a group of 20 students from Mitchell's Plain, Elsies River, Eerste River, Khayelitsha, Kuils River, and Mfuleni recently received their Drone Pilot certificates.
The cohort, part of the Youth Media Movement (YMM) programme, was given a unique opportunity to visit Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) in Cape Town, gaining insight into the aviation sector and the pivotal role technology plays in its future.
The ground-breaking drone programme was made possible through a partnership between YMM, which is dedicated to youth empowerment through innovation and technology, and the Media, Information and Communication Technologies Sector Education and Training Authority (MICT SETA).
At the helm of YMM is Marshall Nelson, an experienced drone pilot with a professional SACAA RPAS Operator Certificate. He oversees the programme, teaching youth not only to operate drones but also to build, repair, and understand the technological aspects underpinning modern aviation.
“RPAS certification is not just a certification; it's a gateway to a world of opportunities,” Nelson stated emphatically. “Our objective is to empower young people with the essential skills and confidence to thrive in the fast-growing drone industry.”
Under Nelson's guidance, students received hands-on training in a variety of subjects crucial for drone operations, including air law, meteorology, human factors, safety protocols, and compliance with aviation regulations.
The curriculum is engineered to pave the way for careers in the rapidly expanding drone and aviation industries.
Last week, this cohort of aspiring drone pilots had the privilege of visiting ACSA, where they engaged directly with aviation leaders. Although strict protocols prevented them from taking photographs inside restricted areas, the students were able to observe the inner workings of air traffic control and navigation services.
“At ACSA, students observed firsthand how drones are enhancing airport operations,” Nelson explained. “They witnessed demonstrations showcasing drone applications in infrastructure inspections, runway safety, and wildlife control.”
The visit served to underscore the critical role of technology in increasing both efficiency and safety at airports, complex environments where precise operations are paramount.
In another part of the day, students interacted with professionals from Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS), gaining a robust understanding of airspace management and the integration of drones within the broader national and international flight networks. Insights into navigation technologies and Unmanned Traffic Management (UTM) systems further illustrated the exciting possibilities lying ahead in careers related to airspace technology.
Additionally, the students were introduced to the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA), where they were educated on the regulatory framework governing drone operations in the country.
This informative session covered safety regulations, certification processes, and international standards, reinforcing the importance of compliance and professionalism in the aviation sector.
Feedback from the students about their experiences has been overwhelmingly positive.
Cassandra Willemse, a 24-year-old from Elsies River, expressed her enthusiasm: “I'm still buzzing from the incredible experience I had completing the remote pilot license course. The insights I gained into the industry were incredible, and I connected deeply with my classmates.”
Another student, Thukeacia Calsey Rhode, 26, from Eastridge, Mitchell's Plain, noted, “Our visit to ACSA was very educational; it took us down memory lane and explained how they have become the top Airport.”
Her remarks highlight the importance of practical exposure in education, as each student is motivated to contribute their skills back to their communities.
ACSA echoed this sentiment, stating their commitment to supporting educational initiatives that nurture understanding and inspire future aviation professionals.
“These visits equip students with the practical knowledge and skills needed to excel in the aviation industry,” they emphasized. The organisation also elaborated on crucial safety measures, underscoring the significance of obstacle limitation surfaces and mitigating drone-related risks in aviation.
Ultimately, the Youth Media Movement's innovative approach to skills development in technologies linked to the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) is shaping a brighter future for students in underprivileged communities, proving once again that investment in education holds the key to progress and empowerment.