The Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA), in partnership with AirServ Limited and Uganda Airlines, hosted the second edition of Girls in Aviation Day at the authority’s head office in Entebbe to inspire and empower young girls to pursue careers in aviation.
The event highlights included panel discussions where Industry experts shared insights and experiences, providing a platform for girls to learn about aviation careers as well as the airport facility tour that enabled participants to get a behind-the-scenes look at airport operations, including a tour of the airside facilities.
Speaking at the opening, Olive B. Lumonya, the UCAA’s Deputy Director General who is also the Vice Chairperson of African Women in Aviation Association under African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC) reaffirmed UCAA’s commitment to advancing the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) Next Generation of Aviation Professionals (NGAP) Programme which focuses on attracting, educating, training, and retaining young professionals; promoting gender equality in aviation; and encouraging global collaboration through various programs, summits, and initiatives.
She said that such events are vital because they bring together young girls from across the country who are interested in aviation careers and serve as a source of inspiration.
“We are intentional about supporting this programme and creating platforms that encourage many young people to pursue their dreams in aviation. I am glad that industry players like Airserv have come on board to take the lead,” she noted.
In addition, she explained that UCAA has, over the years, recognised the significant contributions of women by highlighting the different roles they undertake in the aviation industry, saying, “The Authority has enhanced efforts toward bridging the gender gap. Today, 32% of our employees are female, and we aim to continue building on this progress.”
The UCAA’s Deputy Director General also encouraged the young ones to not limit themselves to one path because the aviation industry provides the space to explore a wide range of skills and interests.
“The advent of technology in aviation has come with more opportunities, such as the use of drones and advanced air mobility systems, among others, which will all need young and vibrant minds like yours,” Lumonya said.
She also highlighted that entering a field where women are still the minority can be challenging, but aviation thrives on determination and resilience qualities you already possess and therefore encouraged the young ones to take advantage of mentorship programs such as this and seek out scholarships that specifically support young women in aviation.
“You could also join a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) program, or connect with women already working in aviation. These opportunities will provide the guidance you need to excel. The key is to remain persistent and, above all, believe in yourself,” she concluded.
According to the Scheduling and Marketing Manager at Air Serv Limited, Robina Nalumu, the event seeks to bridge the gender gap in the aviation industry by encouraging girls to explore various career paths.
In addition, she pointed out raising awareness about the diverse career opportunities available in aviation, equipping girls with the knowledge and confidence to pursue their interests in aviation and fostering a more inclusive and diverse aviation industry.
The event brought together passionate girls from schools across the country, including Mt. St. Mary’s College Namagunga, MerryLand International, Olea Primary School, St. Peter’s S.S., Hope Senior School, St. Mark High School, and Gayaza High School, among others, to learn, connect, and dream big.
Ivy Nabbosa Luggya a student from Mt. St. Mary’s College Namagunga, noted that interacting with people from the careers they want to join was amazing, stating, “As a girl child and as a student in this country, from this experience, I have been inspired and I have a sure footing of where I want to go, though I am not very sure. I have very strange direction but now I know the path to take, what it’s going to take to get there, and I know what it’s going to look like when I’m there.”
By hosting this event, UCAA and AirServ are taking steps to create a more inclusive aviation sector and inspire the next generation of female aviation professionals.
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