Online Reporter
Rutendo Nyeve
THE country’s aviation industry has received yet another significant endorsement, with South Korea expressing its admiration, particularly for its growing influence in global aviation. This has led to the Asian country seeking deeper collaboration, especially in aviation education and training.
Led by Mr Hyochul Park, Director of International Co-operation in the Office of Civil Aviation under the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, a delegation from South Korea recently visited Zimbabwe to participate in the Africa Indian Ocean (AFI) Week held in Victoria Falls, where they used the opportunity to foster bilateral co-operation with Zimbabwe in the aviation space.
In an exclusive interview with Zimpapers at the exhibition stand, Mr Park commended Zimbabwe’s role in shaping aviation development globally, describing the nation as a key representative of the continent in the industry.
“Zimbabwe is contributing significantly to the development of global aviation. As a representative country of Africa, I think Zimbabwe is contributing heavily to global aviation. So, I sincerely would like to express my respect,” said Mr Park.
He expressed South Korea’s commitment to supporting Zimbabwe’s aviation sector, saying his country has been offering various aviation education programmes, which it wants to further extend and collaborate with Zimbabwe.
He expressed hope that more aviation professionals from Zimbabwe would take advantage of the opportunity.
“Among the education and training programmes we are providing, there is a Master’s degree programme in aviation management. We have implemented this programme since 2021, but still, we have not seen any Zimbabwean participants. So, it would be great for us to have more chances to help Zimbabwean aviation professionals with these courses,” he said.
In addition to academic programmes, South Korea has been supporting Zimbabwe’s aviation infrastructure through advanced IT systems. Mr Park said that Zimbabwe has been using the Safety Management Information System (SMIS) and the Safety Oversight Management System (SOMS) since 2023, while pledging continued technical support.
Mr Park drew parallels between South Korea’s remarkable post-war economic transformation and the potential for African nations, including Zimbabwe, to leverage education and training for sectoral growth. He said that South Korea’s development was fuelled by a strong emphasis on skills development, a model it is eager to share.
“In 1950, we experienced the Korean War, and after that, from the ashes of the war, we tried our best to recover. We got a lot of international support from international organisations, and those development achievements we had are actually based on the Korean people’s passion for education and training.
“As South Korea, we always wished to share our know-how and experience while we developed and recovered from the ashes of the war, including in aviation as well. We are co-operating with African countries, including Zimbabwe, and part of the effort is providing education and training,” he said.
South Korea currently offers 15 specialised aviation training programmes, including courses for management-level aviation officers. Since the inception of these programmes, 36 Zimbabwean aviation professionals have participated, with two more set to join this year’s cohort. Mr Park encouraged more Zimbabweans to apply, saying the mutual benefits of strengthened aviation co-operation are key.
“As of 2024, a total of 36 aviation professionals from Zimbabwe have participated in that programme. This year, the same 15 courses are ongoing or planned for implementation soon. A total of two Zimbabwean aviation professionals were selected for the training. We hope more Zimbabwean aviation professionals will join this programme now and in the future,” he said.
The collaboration extends beyond training, with both nations working together in international aviation governance. South Korea, which has served as a member of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Council since 2022, views Zimbabwe as a vital partner in shaping global aviation policies.
“As a great partner country of South Korea, we have taken the responsibility as an ICAO Council member since 2022, together,” said Mr Park.
The South Korean Government’s recognition of Zimbabwe’s aviation progress presents a unique opportunity for local professionals to enhance their expertise through world-class training. Aviation authorities in Zimbabwe are expected to facilitate greater participation in these programmes, ensuring the nation remains at the forefront of Africa’s aviation growth.
With South Korea’s support, Zimbabwe’s aviation sector is set to reach new heights, fostering innovation, safety, and global competitiveness.
@nyeve14
