•A Strategic Move to Bridge the Skills Gap in the Aviation Industry
In a groundbreaking partnership aimed at strengthening Kenya’s aviation sector, Kenya Airways (KQ) has joined forces with London Metropolitan University to establish a premier aviation training institution at KQ’s Pride Centre in Nairobi.
The collaboration is set to revolutionize aviation education in the region, addressing the critical shortage of skilled professionals while enhancing Kenya’s position as a regional aviation hub.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was formally signed on Friday, February 21, 2025, at the Pride Centre in Embakasi, Nairobi.
The ceremony was attended by Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Education, Julius Ogamba, Kenya Airways Chief Executive Officer Allan Kilavuka, and London Metropolitan University Vice-Chancellor Julie Hall, among other industry leaders.
A Major Milestone for Kenya’s Aviation Sector
Speaking at the event, CS Julius Ogamba highlighted the strategic importance of the partnership, noting that it marks a significant milestone for Kenya and the broader African aviation industry.
He emphasized that while Kenya plays a pivotal role in regional air transport, the country faces a severe shortage of advanced aviation training institutions, particularly in the technical and vocational education space.
“This collaboration represents a critical step in addressing the current skills gap in Kenya’s aviation industry while strengthening our ability to compete in the global aerospace economy,” Ogamba stated.
He further noted that Kenya lacks a dedicated university-level aviation degree program, forcing many aspiring aviation professionals to seek education abroad or rely on limited local training options.
This partnership is expected to change that landscape by providing internationally recognized aviation qualifications that will be accessible within the country.
Empowering the Next Generation of Aviation Professionals
The partnership will leverage Kenya Airways’ extensive industry experience and London Metropolitan University’s academic excellence to offer world-class aviation training.
With over 100 courses already available at KQ’s Pride Training Centre, the new collaboration is set to expand opportunities for aspiring pilots, engineers, cabin crew, and aviation management professionals.
Group MD & CEO of Kenya Airways, Allan Kilavuka, described the partnership as a game-changer for Africa’s aviation industry.
“We’re combining KQ’s expertise with London Met’s excellence to empower our people, drive innovation, and shape the future of our industry,” Kilavuka stated.
In a statement posted on Kenya Airways’ official social media pages, the airline reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing the next generation of aviation leaders.
“We have signed a landmark MoU with London Metropolitan University, paving the way for cutting-edge aviation education. This partnership will upskill talent, enhance career growth, and strengthen Africa’s aviation industry,” the statement read.
Supporting Kenya’s Vision 2030 and Economic Growth
CS Ogamba reiterated that a highly skilled workforce is essential for Kenya’s economic growth, particularly in key sectors such as aviation, transport, and logistics. He emphasized that by expanding access to globally competitive aviation education, the partnership aligns with Kenya’s Vision 2030—a national blueprint aimed at transforming Kenya into a middle-income economy through industrialization and job creation.
“By expanding access to world-class aviation education, this partnership will contribute directly to Kenya’s goal of becoming a middle-income economy with a globally competitive workforce by 2030,” Ogamba said.
He also assured that the Ministry of Education would provide full support in creating an enabling policy environment to foster the growth of aviation education in the country.
Pride Centre: A Hub for Aviation Excellence
Since its establishment in 2007, Kenya Airways’ Pride Centre has been at the forefront of aviation training in Africa. The institution, certified by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), has continuously set high standards in aviation education. This new collaboration is expected to further cement its reputation as a premier training hub for the continent.
CS Ogamba commended Kenya Airways for its proactive approach in bridging the aviation skills gap and urged other stakeholders to invest in similar initiatives.
“The collective efforts of KQ, London Metropolitan University, and the government will define the future of aviation training and ensure that Kenya remains at the forefront of the aviation industry in Africa and beyond,” he concluded.
A Bright Future for Kenyan Aviation
As demand for skilled aviation professionals continues to grow, this partnership between Kenya Airways and London Metropolitan University is a timely intervention.
It not only enhances career growth for aviation professionals but also strengthens Africa’s aviation industry, ensuring it remains competitive in the global market.
With this initiative, Kenya Airways is not only investing in the future of aviation but also reinforcing Kenya’s role as a leading player in the industry, both regionally and internationally.
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