The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) and Caverton Helicopters have commenced the second batch of training for 10 selected female engineers and scientists from NASENI in Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) technology.
The six-week training program, which kicked off on Monday at Caverton’s training school in Lagos, is part of an agreement to strengthen both parties.
In a statement signed by the Director of Information NASENI Olusegun Ayeoyenikan, the training is a key component of the SHEFLY project, a pioneering initiative by the Executive Vice Chairman of NASENI, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, aimed at empowering rural women to leverage drone technology for precision farming and increased agricultural yields, aligning with the present administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Speaking on behalf of NASENI management, the team Lead NASCAV project Dr. Abayomi Okesola, urged the trainees to take the opportunity seriously saying they are worthy partners due to their impressive track record in aviation and marine spaces.
He further said the SHEFLY project is “very dear to the heart of the EVC who perceived the exercise as a valuable initiative to promote women in STEM fields and bridge the existing gender gap”. He added that the selection of the female trainees from the various institutes across different zones was a deliberate effort to enable them manage clusters that will be set up to train rural women in drone technology for enhanced agricultural activities nationwide.
Earlier, the MD Caverton Helicopters Captain Bello Ibrahim, who was represented by the Director Corporate Services Mr. Ayodele Omueti noted that the company is a conglomerate with diverse interests in aviation, marine and training.
Emphasizing that the training is essential for ensuring safety and accountability, he stated that the UAVs are among the modern aircraft in the aviation sector, stressing that “the training is timely to ensure we remain current with global technological advancements.”
On his part, the Project Coordinator Caverton Drones, Mr. Ese Obukonise stated that the training adheres to aerodynamic principles and is certified by a UK license Authority, ensuring compliance with international standards and best practices.
He said this would enable the trainees to maximise their potential and contribute effectively to NASENI’s initiatives. He noted that the demand for UAV pilots in the world is exceptionally high and the SHEFLY project would not only promote gender inclusiveness in a male dominated field but also empower women to capitalize on emerging opportunities in UAV technology.
Upon completion, he said, the female trainees will in turn, train rural women farmers to utilize drone technology to improve and boost farm yields.