NEW: Training on aviation safety begins

Online Reporter

THE Aviation Training Academy of Zimbabwe (ATAZ) has launched the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) English Language Proficiency Interlocutor/Rater Initial Training course for pilots and air traffic controllers in Harare as part of efforts to enhance aviation safety and prevent accidents caused by miscommunication.
The training aims to ensure that aviation personnel fully understand and convey critical instructions, especially during high-stress scenarios, where clarity can be the difference between safety and disaster.
This milestone follows ATAZ’s growing recognition on the global stage.
In November last year, the academy received ICAO TrainAir Plus certification, and in February this year, it was awarded ICAO TrainAir Plus Bronze Membership, affirming its adherence to international standards and commitment to quality training.
Located at the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport, ATAZ was established by the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe (CAAZ) to serve as a premier training hub for aviation professionals.
The academy offers a range of courses, including aviation security, safety management systems and dangerous goods handling.
On Tuesday, CAAZ director-general Mr George Mashababe officially opened the English Language Proficiency Interlocutor training course, which is being attended by eight participants.
Seven of the trainees are from the CAAZ Directorate of Flight Safety and Standards, while the eighth is a senior manager from the Zambia Civil Aviation Authority.
The course is being facilitated by Mr Daniel Shiferaw Lemma, an ICAO-certified instructor from the Ethiopian Aviation University.
Speaking at the launch, Mr Mashababe said: “Today, we open the doors to our maiden ICAO TRAINAIR PLUS Programme (TPP) course, English Language Proficiency Interlocutor, as a proud member of the global ICAO TPP family.”
He recounted the academy’s journey, noting that ATAZ was conceived in 2012 to address skills gaps and the growing demand for world-class aviation training in Zimbabwe and the region.
After years of planning and investment, the institution became operational in 2021, with its official launch in 2023 presided over by Transport and Infrastructural Development MInister Felix Mhona.
“Today, as an ICAO TPP member, ATAZ is privileged to host at least three ICAO-approved courses this year: English Language Proficiency Interlocutor; Safety Management Systems for Practitioners; and the State Safety Programme.
“It is a befitting honour, that our maiden course is the English Language Proficiency Interlocutor, a foundational programme that sets the tone for our commitment to excellence,” he said.