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By Sunday Ani
The second matriculation ceremony of the Eastwing Aviation Institute, recently held at its Enugu campus, formally admitted a new cohort of students into its aviation programmes.
In his remarks, the Founder and Provost of the Institute, Dr. Christopher Edeh, described the occasion as a great opportunity to witness the next generation of aviation professionals take off on their academic journey.
He recalled the journey of the institute, noting that it was founded in 2012 in Lagos as a small training centre, but celebrated its expansion to Enugu in 2024. “Today, Eastwing Aviation Institute is approved by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and accredited by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE),” he said.
He added that the institute now offers a national diploma in aircraft engineering and maintenance technology.
Dr. Edeh encouraged students to be steadfast, disciplined and proud of their career choice, saying, “Aviation will take you around the world. Be proud of your path and work hard; discipline is key to your success here,” he advised.
Delivering the matriculation lecture, titled, “Building an Aerial Future in Aviation via Excellent Training and Discipline,” Deputy Provost of the Institute, Dr. Segun Babalola, emphasised the importance of combining training, discipline and vision in shaping future aviation experts. “Three things are involved: building the future, giving students excellent training, and instilling discipline,” he said.
He spoke about the evolution of aviation, from its early beginnings to modern aircraft technologies, highlighting innovations, such as lighter aircraft engines with greater horsepower and four-axis flight director equipment.
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He stressed that Eastwing’s curriculum trains students to conduct preventive maintenance, not just repairs. “An airplane doesn’t have to be faulty before you act. Routine maintenance is the hallmark of professionalism,” he noted.
He also noted that the structure of the training programme involves a two-year diploma with 16 weeks of industrial training after the first year and a one-year industrial experience after the second.
He urged students to be punctual and dedicated, reminding them that gold does not shine until it passes through fire.
Prof Gordian Mbah, representing Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), commended the founder and the management of the institute for their vision and commitment.
He described the institution as small in appearance but vast in quality, and applauded its outreach to other universities to strengthen academic collaboration.
He encouraged students to work hard and uphold the discipline expected in the aviation field.
Also addressing the gathering, Mrs. Mercy Amechi, standing in for the regional manager of the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), Enugu, told the students that their new status demanded responsibility and independence. She emphasised discipline and punctuality, urging them to be good ambassadors of their families, community and the institute. “You are now responsible for yourselves. Be on time, take your training seriously and make your alma mater proud,” she said.
