AfDB and Rwanda Launch Pioneering Aviation Skills Center to Boost Workforce Competency

Saturday, February 17, 2024

The African Development Bank Group (AfDB), in collaboration with the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), has initiated the Centre of Excellence for Aviation Skills (CEAS) Project. This five-year initiative, valued at US$ 26.6 million, aims to cultivate a workforce equipped with the skills necessary to adhere to both national and international aviation training standards, catering to the sector’s demand.

The primary focus of the project is to enhance the institutional capabilities for delivering high-quality training that aligns with international standards, through securing accreditation and certification from recognized accrediting bodies such as EASA. It seeks to expand the number of domestically trained and certified aviation professionals through superior training programs, while also bolstering institutional training capacities and frameworks in line with global aviation best practices.

Aligned with the ambitions of Rwanda’s National Vision 2050, the project underscores the importance of fundamental skills and competencies for Rwanda’s progression to an upper middle-income status by 2035 and a high-income status by 2050.

Additionally, the initiative supports the African Union Agenda 2063, particularly Goal 2, which aims for an Africa that boasts well-educated citizens and a skills revolution driven by science, technology, and innovation.

Commenting on the project, AfDB Country Manager Aissa Touré said:

“Centre of Excellence for Aviation Skills is anchored on the Bank’s Rwanda Country Strategy Paper, CSP (2022-2026) and aligned with priority area 2 which is geared at improving skills and financial capabilities to foster private sector and productivity-led growth. The project further contributes to the attainment of SDG9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure.

RDB Chief Executive Officer Francis Gatare said:

“This unique investment will usher in a new era of opportunity and progress for Rwanda’s aviation sector. By establishing a cutting-edge center of excellence, we are not only building infrastructure; we are nurturing talent, fostering innovation, and charting a course towards sustainable development. We are optimistic the center will position Rwanda as a beacon of excellence in the skies of Africa and beyond, propelling the economy to new heights.”

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