Young Aviators & STEM program IFly Aviation and Rolls-Royce
Introduction
In 2020, IFly Aviation, in partnership with Rolls-Royce, held an event called “Young Aviators & STEM program” at Nakasero Secondary School in Uganda. During this day, several workshops were held where students had the opportunity to learn about the principles of flight and aircraft engines. This opportunity provided a valuable educational experience, encouraging young people to explore careers in aeronautical and aerospace fields, promoting interest in STEM, and inspiring the next generation of aviators.
Purpose of the best practice/guidance
The Young Aviators & STEM program provided a unique experience, especially as it is a needy region of the country. Contact with people associated with training centers made the experience more immersive.
In addition to sparking students’ interest in the industry, this program also aims to draw the attention of organizations to the development of this sector in the country.
Intended audience
The audience were the students from the Nakasero Secondary School, in Uganda. On the occasion, two hundred students participated in the activities.
Description/How the event happened
They were exposed to motivational talks, including insights into aviation and the various opportunities. The students had a flight simulator session where they got exposed to a computer-based flight simulator to experience firsthand what happens in the cockpit during flight.
The event was complimented by engine building project workshop, an initiative of the Rolls Royce STEM program. Through this activity, students got to build a 3D model Trent engine, the likes of which powers the Boeing 787 Dreamliner and Airbus A350, two of the most popular aircraft used by airlines around the world.
Impacts / Outcomes
These initiatives have a positive impact on Ugandan youth by raising awareness of opportunities in aviation and STEM and promoting inclusive and diverse participation in these sectors.
IFly Aviation, as an African STEM-focused brand, seeks to expose underserved communities through education, connecting young people to opportunities in these fields, equipping them with the skills needed for careers in these fields, and promoting a more diverse and representative industry.
In addition, initiatives such as STEM and robotics clubs in Ugandan schools have sparked young people’s interest in science and technology, providing hands-on experience and encouraging creativity and innovation.
Lessons learned
The Young Aviators & STEM programme, organised by IFly Aviation in partnership with Rolls-Royce, held in Uganda, provided several key lessons:
- Practical and Inspirational Exposure: By engaging students in activities such as flight simulations and building 3D models, the event demonstrated that hands-on experiences could spark young people’s interest in careers.
- Strategic Alliances: The collaboration between private sector companies, such as Rolls-Royce, and educational organisations, such as IFly Aviation, highlights the importance of strategic alliances to advance education.
- Inclusion and Diversity: Events such as this also encourage the participation of underrepresented groups, especially girls, in traditionally male-dominated fields.
- Importance of STEM Education: By integrating STEM concepts into practical activities, the programme reinforces the need for a solid educational foundation in these disciplines to prepare young people for future opportunities in the workplace.
- Social Impact: Initiatives that connect industry with the local community have the potential to create a lasting impact, encouraging sustainable development and economic growth through youth empowerment.
Lessons like these underscores the importance of hands-on, collaborative educational programs to inspire and prepare the next generation of professionals in technology-related fields.
Web link
https://www.rolls-royce.com/media/our-stories/discover/2020/young-aviators-and-stem-programme-with-ifly-aviation-uganda.aspx
Contact
derek@ifly-global.com
info@ifly-global.com
Ambassadors
Dalton Ssenkungu
Derrick Taremwa
Peter Mwesigwa
Hosea Datari
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