The first group of aviation technicians from Cameroon trained by Denel have started with practical on-the-job training within the aerospace and defence technology group. Speaking at an awards ceremony for the 58 students who were enrolled at the Denel Technical Academy, Mr Michael Kgobe, CEO of Denel Aviation, said the company is extending its footprint on the African continent. “We have the proven products, the systems and the technical resources to strengthen the capacity of African Defence Forces and a strong record of support to peace-keeping operations in various theatres on the Continent,” he said. The Cameroonian students have successfully completed their theoretical training at the Denel Technical Academy and will, eventually, be qualified as artisans and technicians in the aviation sector. A second group of 62 students started their training in January. Mr Kgobe said the extension of the training programme clearly demonstrates the confidence that the African continent places in the quality of training provided by Denel and will open the doors to similar cooperation with more sister countries. “The Denel Technical Academy is rapidly growing into a continent-wide institution of higher learning with a growing number of students from across the Continent attending the courses we offer,” he said. The awards function held at the Denel campus in Kempton Park was attended by the Chief of Air Force Staff of Cameroon, Brigadier General Jean-Calvin Momha; Chief of the South African Air Force, Lieutenant General Zimpande Fabian Msimang and officials from the Cameroon High commission. In his key note address, Lt General Msimang congratulated Denel and the Cameroon Air Force on the collaboration which affirms the strategic role of Denel on the Continent. Ends For further information, contact: Vuyelwa Qinga (Ms) Group Head: Corporate Communications & Public Affairs Cell: +27 (0) 79 511 6257 Tel: +27 (0) 12 671 2662 email: vuyelwaq@denel.co.za
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