The Grade 8 and 9 learners from Weston High were graced with a visit by members of the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA).
The visit was conducted by Kgomotso Malema, communications officer of the SACAA, and Kwanela Sombela, flight operations inspector and pilot at SACAA. This took place on Thursday (4 August) at the school.
The purpose of the visit was to give learners more insight and a broader perspective to what different careers are being offered within aviation. Malema highlighted what an important time it is for these learners to learn more about the different careers as they are heading closer to choosing their subjects, based on their career choices.
In her speech Malema focused on the various careers, their roles and what one needs to qualify. She touched on the roles of aeronautical engineers, aircraft maintenance engineers, air traffic controllers, pilots and cabin crew. The learners also heard more about Sombela’s career, the qualifications he obtained and his experiences over the years. Sombela emphasised to the learners that hard work and discipline goes a long way.
The learners also had an opportunity to ask questions and engage with the members.
For many it was a first time seeing a pilot in real life. Ethan Joseph, a Grade 8 learner, told Weslander that the visit was impressive and he learned a lot. Mogamat Swartz, a Grade 9 learner, said the question and answer session was insightful and while learning, it was also fun. “Who knows, one day we can also become pilots. We need more of these sessions shared with every learner in the school.”
