AAD event to continue Africa Aerospace & Defence Youth Development Programme

The AAD YDP’s key focus is to create awareness around various career opportunities in the defence and aviation sectors, while also promoting mathematics, science and technology in SA’s schools. 

Speaking at a sponsor’s event hosted by Airbus Defence & Space in Irene, Chairperson of the AAD YDP Mr Kholisile Khumalo highlighted the need and importance of creating awareness of the Aerospace industry and the careers that can be pursued to ensure that the skills required in this industry are promoted and maintained. 

The Trade Days will see youth and educators visiting the show as well as attend other sponsor-funded activities for free. Over the Public Days, youth and children that have paid the show entrance fee will also participate in the programme. Activities will include a comprehensive flying display involving military, civilian, sport and recreational aircraft. 

The AAD YDP includes the South African National Defence Force’s (SANDF) Military Skills Development System (MSDS), which is a dedicated platform to create awareness for career prospects in the SANDF four Arms of Service

being the Army, Air Force, Navy and Military Health Service. The MSDS is a voluntary two-year programme; candidates who complete the course exit from the system and have the option to serve in the reserve force or stay on for medium-term career opportunities.   

Located in Hangar 6 of the AAD Show in Air Force Base Waterkloof, the YDP will see more than 7200 Grade 9, 10 and 11 go through a facilitated and focused programme that includes model building, various simulators, motivational talks and career guidance.