News & Media
Women drone pilots continue their journey in the skies
The commercial drone industry in South Africa is expanding rapidly, with significant adoption across various sectors. The mining industry leads in utilizing drone technology for security and stockpile surveillance. However, drones are increasingly being used in medical deliveries, film and entertainment, and precision farming in agriculture.
Back, from left: Nontobeko Nomvula, Happiness Godora, Khanyisile Shivambu, Neliswa Songca, Suzanna Nyathi (Administrator: Inhlanyelo Hub), Nozipho Nale, Rotalajeso Sekano, Masana Mtileni, Nomsa Nkabinde (Executive Assistant: Inhlanyelo Hub) Front, from left: Prof Annemarie Davis (Project Leader: Inhlanyelo Hub Drone Divas Programme), Prof Raphael Mpofu (CEO: Inhlanyelo Hub) and Dr Tapiwa Muzata (Project Manager: Inhlanyelo Hub)
#DroneDivas commenced with the Advanced Drone Diva Programme, which offers specialized training for operating unmanned aerial vehicles beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS). This advanced training enables pilots to manage flights without maintaining direct, unaided visual contact with their drones, ensuring they can handle separation and collision avoidance responsibilities effectively.
Beyond technical skills, the women in the programme will receive comprehensive training on the South African drone industry. They will also participate in an Ide8tion workshop, designed to foster innovation and practical application of their skills. The training culminates in a five-day boot camp focused on developing a minimum viable product, leveraging the knowledge and capabilities acquired through their pilot license qualification.
The programme kicked off its latest phase on June 26, 2024, marking another milestone in the journey of these pioneering women. The first day of training dealt with the drone industry, and the second day focused on developing business ideas. The initiative not only enhances their technical skills, but also empowers them to contribute meaningfully to the growing drone industry in South Africa.
From left: Nontobeko Nomvula, Happiness Godora, Khanyisile Shivambu, Neliswa Songca, Nozipho Nale, Rotalajeso Sekano, Masana Mtileni
The drone pilots have expressed enthusiasm about their experiences. Happiness Godora shared that the Ide8tion training helped her to prepare her business idea for a drone-related start-up. Another drone pilot, Nozipho Nale commented on the value of combining the business development training with the drone programme. She is already imagining the possibilities of using thermogenic drones in security and policing.
As these women take to the skies, they exemplify the increasing diversity in the field and the broadening scope of drone applications across various industries. The Inhlanyelo Hub Drone Diva Programme is a testament to the potential of women in technology and their crucial role in shaping the future of the drone sector in South Africa.
The Advanced Drone Diva Programme is funded through strategic project funds within the Inhlanyelo Hub NPC.
For more information on the Inhlanyelo Hub, visit www.inhlanyelohub.com.
*Submitted by the Inhlanyelo Hub
Publish date: 2024/07/01
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