GOVERNMENT VOWS TO EMPOWER WOMEN IN AVIATION SECTOR - nbc

Описание: The government has pledged to empower women in the aviation sector, as they remain under-represented in this industry. 

President Dr, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah made the commitment at the Women in Aviation Namibia Day in Windhoek today (Fri). 

The aviation sector is widely regarded as a male-dominated industry. Statistics indicate that women only constitute about 6% of commercial pilots, 3% are in the technical roles and 20% in air traffic control.

However, for 22-year-old Mutaleni Namene and 18-year-old Avia Mary, this is a stereotype they are determined to break as they pursue careers in the field.

"What motivated me to be part of the aviation sector was mainly because it is known to be a male-dominated sector. I just wanted to prove to myself and other women out there that what I am doing is possible to do, and that motivated me to put women into more dominated industries and not only in this one."

"I am a young student pilot, and I think it's a thing of what you tell yourself, and for me, I need to build more confidence in myself and trust my instructors and that I can control an aircraft and I can represent females in this field."

President Nandi-Ndaitwah reaffirmed the government's unwavering commitment to advancing women.

In a speech delivered on her behalf by Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare, it says this is being done by strengthening and aligning national policies with regional and international frameworks that promote equal access to quality education.

"We need to track the number of women entering aviation training, advancing into leadership and driving innovation. This occasion should inspire renewed determination and strengthen partnerships between government, industry, academia and civil society. It should also remind every Namibian girl that her dreams are not bound by tradition but fuelled by opportunity."

Various stakeholders present at the occasion also reiterated their commitment, saying there is a need to ensure that women and girls actively take up their rightful place in the aviation sector. 

Dr Leake Hangala is the Board Chairperson of the Namibia Airports Company, who says, "The NAC remains committed to standing alongside our partners in committing resources, membership and advocacy to ensure that women are not only present in aviation but are empowered to thrive and lead."

Deputy Minister in the Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare Linda Mbwale adds, "Data-driven strategies must underpin our work by collecting and analysing gender information to create data; this will intensify various national programmes and implement policies that are evidence-based and impactful."

"The forthcoming NDP 6 emphasises industrialisation, skills development and human capital investment; women in aviation are integral to these priorities through targeted interventions," reiterates Minister of Works and Transport, Veikko Nekundi.

Chief Executive Officer Hellen Mwamba represented Africa Aviation.

"This number reminds us that while aviation connects continents, there is still significant work to be done to ensure that women are fully represented across the sector."

The Women in Aviation Initiative logo, which symbolises Namibia's dedication to advancing gender equality, empowerment and inclusivity within the aviation sector, was also launched.