Only four selected for FlyNamibia bursary

Out of 1 400 applicants for the pilot bursary programme of FlyNamibia, only four candidates were selected for the programme.

In a statement released on Monday, FlyNamibia spokesperson Elzanne McCulloch said extensive due diligence was taken to narrow down the field and ensure that only the best candidates made the final selection.

“Extensive application and interview processes led to the eventual selection of the four candidates for the pilot programme,” she said.

The candidates chosen are all Namibians aged 23 to 24.

Westair Aviation chief executive officer Henri van Schalkwyk said the goal of the programme is to deliver a 100% success rate. 

“From our side we will make sure that you have all the foundational support you need to succeed, but at the end of the day the hard work will have to come from you,” he said.

Van Schalkwyk said the system to be used to train the candidates, will include on-the-job instruction in all aspects of the aviation industry, from pilot training, cabin crew and aircraft engineering to finance and management. 

“During their three-year apprenticeship, trainees will get experience in and exposure to all aspects of the industry. 

“Parallel with their primary training, each individual will also learn how other aspects of aviation work so that, upon completion of their training and studies, they are familiar with all aspects of the business and have a better-rounded understanding of the industry,” he said.

Van Schalkwyk said pilot training is a complex process that involves mastering both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

“It can take several years and cost tens of thousands of dollars to complete. This style of training will enable candidates to have first-hand knowledge and understanding of each department that forms the foundation of aviation operations and will make them better pilots,” he said.

The bursary will cover all costs involved in the training, as well as a monthly stipend for the candidates.

Last year the Namibia Student Financial Assistance Fund (NSFAF) said it will no longer fund students pursuing aviation due to a lack of funds.

NSFAF acting chief executive officer Kennedy Kandume said the decision was prompted by the change in the amount charged and funds for aviation training.

He said NSFAF spends more than N$5,5 million per year or N$67 000 per student for aviation training.

“Through industry engagement in 2021 the institution realised that the amount we used to pay is not even enough to complete a private pilot license (PPL).

“The aviation industry charges hourly fees, unlike other fields of studies,” he said.

FlyNamibia and Westair Aviation said they hoped to advance their human capital and support the aviation industry in Namibia through enabling and producing a highly skilled workforce that can further help the industry prosper.