The 2016 Scholars’ Day was held on 20 May and attracted more than 2,400 eager learners from schools in the Lowveld. The day was hosted by Kishugu Lowveld Air Show, in collaboration with the Department of Transport and the Mpumalanga Department of Education.

Scholars’ Day is an annual event preceding the Kishugu Lowveld Airshow, and aims to introduce scholars to the various career opportunities within the South African transport industry, with a special focus on the exhilarating world of aviation.

Deputy Minister of Transport, Sindisiwe Chikunga, encouraged learners to excel in their studies, advance themselves beyond matric and to consider careers within the transport sector. Scholars were later treated to special flight displays arranged by the Kishugu Lowveld Air Show.

A selection of gr. 11 and 12 learners were identified, based on their subject choices (Science and Mathematics), to attended the day as cadets. The South African Air Force (SAAF) hosted a special display for these 200 cadets to promote career opportunities within the SAAF. The cadettes were introduced to various aircraft, systems and positions. An Impala Jet simulator was on display and served as great entertainment.

“The day had been a huge success the year before, and once again exceeded expectations. It was well-supported and organised. We got positive feedback from the learners, who said that they enjoyed it and seemed to have also learnt a lot,” says Cindy Cutting, Lowveld Air Show committee member.

Numerous exciting prizes were awarded to learners during interactive sessions. A big thank you to Vodacom, who sponsored 20 Smart Tab 3G Tablets, and the Department of Transport for their donation of 100 bicycles to local schools