Cabo Verde has set its sights on becoming a leading regional center for civil aviation training within the next five years. The ambitious plan was unveiled by Mário Gomes, President of the Civil Aviation Agency, during a meeting on the implementation of the Civil Aviation Academy in partnership with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). This initiative aims to position Cabo Verde as a key player in the region for training civil aviation professionals.
The first phase of the project will focus on evaluating the country's current infrastructure, inspectors, manuals, and courses. This assessment will be conducted in collaboration with ICAO to create a comprehensive action plan for the Academy's implementation. According to Mário Gomes, the evaluation process will cover various aspects, including technical capabilities of inspectors, manuals, and courses that will be developed between 2026 and 2028.
The project also seeks to address the need to retain experienced professionals in the sector within Cabo Verde. By establishing the academy, the country aims to not only maintain but also develop the skills of senior technicians, turning them into instructors. This approach will expand the country's training base and provide a broader selection of qualified technicians in the market.
The initial implementation cycle of the project is slated for completion by 2028. Mário Gomes emphasized that the civil aviation sector will require nearly two million technicians over the next decade, underscoring the urgency of training professionals in Cabo Verde. The country's strategic location and commitment to quality training are expected to make it an attractive hub for regional aviation training.
The Civil Aviation Academy, with ICAO's quality seal, is expected to play a pivotal role in addressing the growing demand for skilled aviation professionals. By 2027, Cabo Verde plans to commence specific training programs in civil aviation areas. This year, 2026, will be dedicated to training the project managers and instructors who will lead these initiatives.
The long-term vision for the academy includes establishing Cabo Verde as a reference center for regional aviation training. This would enable the country to train technicians from across the region in various areas of civil aviation. The project aligns with the country's broader strategy to enhance its presence and influence in the regional aviation sector.
As Cabo Verde moves forward with its plans, the involvement of ICAO and the focus on quality training are seen as critical factors in achieving its goals. The country's efforts to become a leading provider of aviation training are expected to have a positive impact on the sector, both locally and regionally.
Key points
- Cabo Verde aims to become a regional reference center for civil aviation training within the next five years.
- The project involves a partnership with ICAO to establish the Civil Aviation Academy.
- The sector is expected to need nearly two million technicians over the next decade.
