Thanda Ndlovu, a security officer, passed the stringent South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACCA) examinations on 1 September 2023, to become a drone pilot – the first female Unisa security officer to do so.

Thanda Ndlovu

Drones are increasingly becoming a crime-fighting tool, with features that allow real-time surveillance outside the reach of stationary cameras. They are able to reach terrains not possible to patrol on foot, and as such they are able to provide advance warning of wrong-doing and deter criminals before they commit their acts. This became the bedrock inspiration of Ndlovu’s passion for drones in fighting crime.

Beyond the reach of cameras

Ndlovu, who joined the university in 2017 as a CCTV (closed-circuit television) operator at the Science (Florida) Campus, says her motivation for being a drone pilot is through observing that it will make her job easier and more efficient. She says that drones have access to areas which have no cameras, and where it is difficult or impossible for officers to patrol physically.

She adds that operating a drone will enable her to patrol, chase after suspects and gather evidence to be used in court, in order to provide a safe environment for Unisa staff members and students.

"Drones," says Ndlovu, "act as alternative crime prevention method. They are the future." She explains that once suspects see the drone hovering above them, they will know they are being watched and will definitely run or stop in their tracks. She continues, "In cases where a suspect has been spotted, a drone can easily follow the person while in communication with officers who are giving chase on the ground."

Regarding her future plans as a drone pilot, Ndlovu says she would love to teach kids and the unemployed youth about drones to get them off the streets and stay away from drugs and crime. She continues: "They need to understand that they can easily get employed or start their own businesses with this skill. The opportunities are endless."

Taking drone piloting to new heights

Exceeded expectations

"The drone industry is growing rapidly, not just in South Africa, but internationally, and although most drone operators are doing it as a leisure activity, more and more people are doing official training/certification to ensure compliance with CAA and thus put Thanda in the forefront," says Dewald Herman, from Protection Services, who supervises the CCTV control room. "Furthermore, it opens opportunities to her in the private sector, should she want to enhance her career."

"Thanda is a very warm and friendly person, and it was easy for us to support her as colleagues and assist her in the training," says Benard van Zyl, Security Systems Specialist from Protection Services. Commenting on Ndlovu’s passion during the course of her training, van Zyl explains that she was very dedicated and took the programme very seriously.

He remarks that from the first day on the programme Ndlovu participated enthusiastically and never stopped smiling. He continues: "We supported and motivated her in all aspects of the programme, keeping her spirits up when the practical flying did not go as well as she hoped for on the day. She never lost focus or became despondent. We are still supporting her remotely with the Florida RPL (Remote Pilot Licence) craft firmware updates."

Van Zyl further explains that the RPL or UAS (Unmanned Aircraft System) training, as it is referred to, contributes greatly to the university as a tool in different aspects, not limited to security. He states that UAS pilots might be able to assist in matters such as videography of labour or student action, aerial photography for corporate communication and marketing, and aerial imagery of Unisa property and functions.

No such thing as a males-only industry

On her advice towards women interested in drone piloting, Ndlovu states that with hard work, dedication and determination, it is all possible. She continues: "I believe there is no such thing as a male-dominated industry or a man’s job. Just tell yourself that you need this, and you are going to do it, therefore, if Ndlovu can do it, so can I."

In her conclusion, Ndlovu expresses her appreciation to the university for giving her the opportunity to learn invaluable skills in drone piloting. She remarks: "I thank Unisa for such a wonderful opportunity by giving me a skill that will forever be mine, and if I may add, it was at no cost to me at all." She hopes that the university will extend this invitation to other women, especially in the Protection Services Department. 

* By Godfrey Madibane, Acting Journalist, Department of Institutional Advancement