Airlink Takes Flight with Generous Donation to Gauteng Schools
In a significant move for aviation education, Southern African airline Airlink has donated a retired Embraer 135 regional jet to the Gauteng Department of Basic Education (GDE). This aircraft will serve as a practical teaching tool for students enrolled in aviation courses at the Rhodesfield Engineering School of Specialisation (SOS) in Kempton Park.
The Embraer 135, which boasts an impressive record with over 30,000 flights, is set to be a game-changer for aspiring aviators. The GDE’s Engineering SOS initiative aims to tackle engineering skills shortages in the region, a crucial step towards advancing Gauteng’s economic development.
Highlighting a commitment to diversity and empowerment, Airlink is also covering the two-year placement of two newly qualified aircraft maintenance technicians at the school, both of whom are talented young black women who honed their skills through apprenticeships at Airlink’s maintenance facility at O.R. Tambo International Airport. This initiative not only supports educational growth but also promotes gender equality within the aviation sector.
“The aircraft will be an invaluable teaching aid for our Grade 11 and 12 learners taking aviation as their eighth matric subject. This year, we have 45 learners, most of them hailing from Tembisa,” shared Caroline Ngxanga, Acting Principal of Rhodesfield Engineering SOS. This tangible resource enhances hands-on learning opportunities, making it easier for students to connect theoretical knowledge with real-world applications.
Matome Chiloane, Gauteng MEC for Education, Sports, Arts, Culture and Recreation, applauded the donation, expressing that such initiatives enrich educational experiences not only for students at Rhodesfield but also for those at other schools across the province. The potential ripple effect of this contribution is immense, inspiring a new generation of aviation professionals.
Airlink’s CEO, de Villiers Engelbrecht, emphasized that this initiative reflects the airline’s dedication to fostering aviation education. “By placing a real aircraft in learners’ hands and providing qualified engineers as trainers, we can help bridge the gap between theory and practical experience,” he stated. Though some components were removed to support Airlink’s active fleet, the airline has also committed to donating spare parts to the school regularly, ensuring ongoing support for the program.
The ERJ135 is not just an aircraft; it is a symbol of opportunity, aspiration, and the future of South African aviation. With a seating capacity of 37 passengers and a range of 2,400 km, this aircraft offers students a unique window into the world of aviation, enriching their educational journey.
This impressive initiative by Airlink serves as a shining example of how corporate contributions can have a lasting impact on education and skills development in the region. #SouthAfrica #Education #Aviation #BusinessNews #Tourism #WorldNews
