By Denira Gounden

Young people from across KwaZulu-Natal gathered at Pietermaritzburg Airport on 26 June 2026 for the Fuze Aviation Academy Career Day, where they explored career opportunities within the aviation sector and received information on education, training and funding opportunities available through the Post-School Education and Training (PSET) system.

Hosted by Fuze Aviation Academy, the career day brought together government departments, aviation professionals and industry stakeholders to expose learners to the diverse career pathways available in aviation while demonstrating how the sector contributes to healthcare, law enforcement, national security and economic development.

Among the exhibitors was the National Skills Fund (NSF) which engaged learners and parents on its mandate and provided information on skills development programmes, bursaries and scholarships available through its strategic partners. Through the exhibition, learners were encouraged to remain committed to their studies and explore opportunities that would prepare them for meaningful participation in South Africa’s economy.

Pilot and Operations Manager of Fuze Aviation Academy, Mrs Tintswalo Ngcobo, said the academy believes career exposure should begin long before learners complete school, explaining that introducing learners to aviation from Grade 8 provides sufficient time to develop the academic foundation, practical skills and confidence required for careers within the industry. She said, “We believe that exposing learners to aviation from an early age gives them the opportunity to develop the knowledge, practical skills and confidence needed to pursue successful careers in the aviation industry,” adding that sustained exposure enables learners to make informed career decisions while preparing them for future employment opportunities.

The role of aviation in protecting communities was highlighted by Brigadier Colonel Sibiya Tyu of the South African Police Service (SAPS), who encouraged learners to recognise that the industry offers far more than opportunities to become pilots. He said, “The aviation sector is inclusive and offers opportunities for everyone. Whether your passion is flying, engineering, technology or public service, there is a place for you. Your background should never determine your future,” before explaining how aviation strengthens policing through aerial surveillance, search and rescue operations and crime prevention initiatives that help keep South Africans safe.

Demonstrating aviation’s contribution to healthcare, Executive of the South African National Blood Service (SANBS), Mr Khulekani Zuma, explained that aviation remains a critical component of emergency medical services, particularly in rural communities. He said, “Aviation enables us to transport blood products quickly to patients in need, reducing response times and improving access to critical healthcare services where every minute counts,” highlighting the role aviation plays in saving lives through rapid response capabilities.

Learners also gained valuable insight into the work of the South African Air Force, where Captain BP Makama outlined its responsibility in safeguarding South Africa’s borders and combating illegal activities such as human trafficking and drug smuggling. Encouraging learners to remain focused on their aspirations, he reminded them to “aim for the stars so that even if you fall, you land on a cloud so when you fall, you land safely on the ground,” emphasising that determination, discipline and hard work remain essential ingredients for success regardless of one’s background.

Throughout the day, learners visited the NSF exhibition stand to engage with officials and learn more about funding opportunities available through the Fund and its strategic partners. The engagement strengthened awareness of education and training opportunities within the PSET system and reinforced the NSF’s commitment to improving access to skills development that equips young people with the knowledge and competencies required to participate meaningfully in the labour market.