Patrick Chitumba in Gweru
GRADUATES of the Number 70 Pilot Training Course and Regular Officer Cadet programme have been challenged to uphold integrity, discipline and professional excellence as they begin their careers in the Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ).
President Mnangagwa is today expected to preside over the Number 70 Pilot Training Course Wings Presentation and Commissioning Parade at Josiah Tungamirai Air Force Base in Gweru, where newly trained pilots will be formally inducted into the AFZ.
Ten trainee pilots, comprising nine men and one woman, are expected to receive their wings from President Mnangagwa.
Speaking on the sidelines of the ceremony, Josiah Tungamirai Air Force Base Deputy Commander Group Captain Tinofara George Shumba said the graduates had demonstrated resilience, courage and determination by successfully completing their demanding training.
He said the graduates had every reason to be proud of their achievement, having excelled physically, intellectually, professionally and ethically.
“To the graduands of Number 70 Pilot Training Course and Regular Officer Cadet, in you I see men and women of integrity, service and excellence. You have made us proud. You can take enormous pride in all the hard work that brought you to this day,” he said.
Group Captain Shumba said the nation had high expectations of the newly trained officers, given the significant investment made in developing their skills and preparing them for leadership responsibilities.
He said the training had tested the candidates’ abilities and character, with only the most dedicated managing to complete the programme.
“Only the best can survive to the end. Today you have risen to every challenge, overcome every single obstacle and proven yourselves worthy of the bars that will soon adorn your uniform and the wings that will adorn your chests,” he said.
Group Captain Shumba said the graduates possessed the sharp intellect, strong character, inner strength and courage needed to confront threats to Zimbabwe’s peace and security.
He urged them to remain committed to the values of service and excellence as they discharged their duties, saying the country expected them to justify the investment made in their training through dedicated and professional service.
