Kenya Airways (KQ) has partnered with London Metropolitan University to establish a quality aviation training institution at Pride Center in Nairobi in a move meant to strengthen Africa region aviation sector.
Speaking during the launch and signing of Memorandum of Understanding, Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Education Julius Ogamba said the collaboration aims to enhance the skills of Kenya Airways employees and equip the broader public with specialized competencies that increases their employability in a highly competitive global market.
The CS, who witnessed the agreement on Friday at KQ’s Pride Centre in Nairobi, emphasized that the inauguration is a significant milestone in Kenya and the region’s aviation sector since Kenya is strategically positioned as a regional aviation hub.
Ogamba however, noted that the country faces a critical shortage of aviation training institutions, particularly in the technical and vocational space.
“This collaboration represents a critical step in addressing the current skills gap in Kenya’s aviation industry while strengthening our ability to compete in the global aerospace economy,” the CS emphasized.
CS Ogamba reiterated that the historic partnership between KQ and the London Metropolitan University is a timely intervention that will provide training opportunities to aspiring aviation professionals and set the stage for the provision of globally recognized aviation qualifications.
He reiterated that as the demand for skilled aviation professionals continues to grow, it is imperative that the government strengthens local capacity to produce qualified pilots, engineers and aviation management experts which will be bridged by the partnership between KQ and the London Metropolitan University.
“The country lacks a dedicated university-level aviation degree program which leaves many aspiring aviation professionals with limited opportunities to advance their studies locally,” he noted.
The CS also applauded the Kenya Airways’ Pride Centre which is an International Air Transport Association (IATA)-certified for playing a pivotal role in aviation training since its establishment in 2007, since the institution continues to set standards in aviation education.
Additionally, he stressed that a well-trained workforce is at the heart of this vision particularly in sectors that drive economic growth such as aviation, transport, and logistics.
“By expanding access to world-class aviation education, this partnership will contribute directly to Kenya’s goal of becoming a middle-income economy with a globally competitive workforce by 2030,” he said adding that Kenya’s Vision 2030 prioritizes industrialization and economic transformation.
The CS further commended KQ and the London Metropolitan University for forging the partnership, and assured that the Ministry of Education will offer support in creating an enabling policy environment to foster the growth of aviation education in Kenya.
He also underscored the collective efforts will define the future of aviation training and ensure that Kenya remains at the forefront of the aviation industry in Africa and beyond.
The Principal Secretary (PS), State Department for Foreign Affairs Dr. Korir Sing’oei said the launch has come at a time when Kenya Airways is focused on transforming itself as the Pride of Africa by strengthening specialized programs in airline, airport and aviation management as well as aircraft engineering management.
Sing’oei who made the remarks in a speech read on his behalf by the Director, Economic Affairs and Commercial Diplomacy Amb. Joseph Masila, added that the government will continue to play a vital role in aviation regulation and policy formulation which is crucial in ensuring that everybody has access to quality education and training.
“Such inclusivity ensures that the entire aviation ecosystem benefits from a highly skilled workforce, ultimately strengthening Kenya’s position as a regional and global aviation leader,” stated PS Sing’oei.
The London Metropolitan University Vice-Chancellor Julie Hall said she is proud that the University has partnered with KQ and expressed confidence that the training that will be offered will open door to many in the aviation field and urged Kenyans to seize the opportunity.
“With the support of the Ministry of Education, I feel very excited and proud to be the Vice Chancellor at a University leading this partnership,” said Hall.
Kenya Airways Group Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Allan Kilavuka reiterated that Pride Center boasts offering not only theoretical courses but also practical training that will make the institution more futuristic.
“As we sign this Memorandum of Understanding, let us remember that it signifies our commitment to the future of quality aviation in this region,” stated the CEO.
By Clinton Ng’iela
