adminManyame Air Base yesterday, Chief of Staff Operations Air Vice Marshal Elson Moyo said organisations the world over thrive because of continuous staff training programmes.
“It is the Air Force of Zimbabwe’s wish that, should resources be quickly available, this diploma awarding school would be developed into a degree awarding institution.
“Plans are already underway for such an undertaking, but we do not have specific timelines on the implementation because of resources. Our officers and men continue to be shining beacons in the region where there are seconded to help regional air forces in training technicians.
“This has produced the best minds seconded to the South African Air Force and Air Zimbabwe where they are spearheading training.
“We also entered into an agreement with Namibia and Malawi where our officers are embarking on pilot and technician exchange programmes,” he said.
He commended the graduates for their resilience and dedication during their four years of learning under a difficult economic environment.
“I would like to commend your high degree of dedication, commitment and enthusiasm despite a number of constraints you encountered.
“The illegal sanctions imposed on the country created a number of challenges for the school which include insufficient training aids and shortage of aircraft spares. All these affected your on the job training in the squadrons.
“Do not forget that the safety of aircraft and the lives of your other colleagues aboard the aircraft depend upon your skills and judgment, thus you need to maintain highest standards of honest and a desire to continue learning,” he added.
The technicians were taught among other things, engines, air electronics, instruments, aircraft armaments, aircraft trimming and safety equipment and airframes.
The course started with 82 students and 16 were females.
Ten students dropped out after they failed to measure up to the course’s demands.
Online Reporter