Youths shine at aviation event
SOUTH African Air Force (SAAF) chief Lieutenant General Zakes Msimang has paid tribute to 134 pupils from the Chris Hani district who completed the Siyandiza Young Falcons aviation programme recently.
The programme took place over two weeks at the Gali Thembani Youth Centre in Komani.
Msimang was speaking at the parade at the Thobi Kula Indoor Sports Complex on Saturday.
The programme, for which the SAAF partnered with the Denel Corporation, the Civil Aviation Authority and the Armaments Corporation of South Africa (Armscor) was brought together by the Chris Hani District Municipality.
The camp’s activities included maths and science lectures, physical training and the imparting of life skills which incorporated discipline and leadership lessons.
Msimang said the country’s youth needed to be placed on a path of success.
“Our country must invest in the empowerment and education of the youth. The Young Falcons programme was initiated by the SAAF to create aviation awareness and to introduce grade 10 to 12 pupils to aviation related courses. The aim is also to improve maths and science. To the Young Falcons: you have made us proud. This country is waiting for your service.”
Msimang said no one has to be defined by his circumstances.
“Be the change agent in your home and your community. The country needs your positive attitude to ensure that it makes economic and social gains.”
He said SA had abundant resources to become a leading nation and that the youth held the key.
“I recognise the long-standing relationship that SAAF and its partners has had with CHDM for the past years. Your hospitality and commitment to this cause is exemplary. May these partnerships continue to grow and add value to the youth of our country.”
SAAF acting director colonel August Lekalakala said, “We want to centralise the programme to take place in South Africa where 2,000 to 3,000 pupils can attend, but there is currently a logistics problem.”
Lekalakala said CHDM would be the only place where the programme would be held this year.
“The programme is held here because CHDM has shown great initiative in hosting the programme.”
Yanga Malgas from Nyanga High School was the overall and best male academic Falcon.
Yolanda Mpala and Iviwe Booysen from Cradock High School were the best participating Young Falcons. Sinovuyo Jaxa from Adelaide High School was the best female academic while Siphosethu Rabela from Nkwanca High School and Ndikhokele Dimani from Hexagon High School were the best drillers.