By Chinelo Obogo
The Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with South Sudan’s Civil Aviation Authority to enhance human capacity development in the country’s aviation industry.
The partnership was concluded following a recent visit by the Director General of South Sudan Civil Aviation Authority, John Eliana, who led a delegation of South Sudanese aviation professionals to NCAT’s facilities in Zaria, Kaduna State.
NCAT’s spokesperson, Jude Amadi said the visit came at the direct instruction of South Sudan President Salva Kiir Mayardit, reflecting the government’s commitment to developing the nation’s aviation capabilities. “The initiative aims to build essential human resources for South Sudan’s aviation sector through comprehensive training programs,” he said.
During their facility tour, the South Sudanese delegation commended NCAT’s facilities, comprehensive training curriculum, and highly qualified instructional staff. The college holds the requisite certification as with platinum status from the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).
NCAT Rector, Dr. Danjuma Ismaila, welcomed the partnership and assured the delegation of the college’s readiness to provide both technical and managerial training tailored to South Sudan’s aviation industry needs. “Our training will provide them with the competency required to launch their civil aviation sector for connectivity and to support the country’s potential in tourism development,” Dr. Ismaila stated.
Part of the agreement includes long and short-term training programs which would be conducted in Nigeria. Additionally, South Sudan has requested specific training modules to be delivered in Juba, the nation’s capital, to maximise accessibility for local aviation personnel. The partnership is expected to address critical human capacity gaps in South Sudan’s aviation sector, supporting the country’s goals of improving connectivity and developing its tourism industry.