Rectron and DJI Launch Drone Academy in Johannesburg to Address Skills Gap in Growing Industry

Rectron, a subsidiary of Mustek, has partnered with Chinese drone manufacturer DJI to launch a drone academy in Midrand, Johannesburg. The academy will offer three courses that focus on enhancing the skills and proficiency of drone pilots. The courses will offer certification for a “remotely piloted aircraft systems maintenance technician,” a remote pilot’s license, and “beyond visual line of sight” certification. The duration of each course is three to four months and includes theoretical and practical training.

Rectron’s drone academy is aimed at promoting the use of drones across various industries as it continues to diversify its business as a distributor of ICT products, including drones. The company is also offering learnerships that aim to enhance the digital skills of the youth.

Andre Witbooi, the Learning and Development Manager at Rectron, notes that the construction, agriculture, and insurance sectors are the top three industries in South Africa that depend on drones. However, the shortage of skilled drone pilots and technicians is a significant impediment to the industry’s further growth. Witbooi believes that as the world moves towards a more digital economy, it is crucial to ensure that the youth have the right skills to take part in it.

The academy will provide relevant training for a future-proof career in the drone space, he added. For many businesses that need to survey large areas, drones offer a cost-effective alternative to helicopters and aircraft. All courses are accredited with the South African Civil Aviation Authority.

Thandanani Manyathi, the Regional Coordinator at the Media, Information and Communication Technologies Sector Education and Training Authority (MICT Seta), noted the contribution of South Africa’s commercial drone industry to job creation and the economy. Drones are beneficial in agriculture as they increase efficiency, precision, and reliability of crop farming.

Despite drone regulations enforced in South Africa, the rapid evolution of the industry makes it difficult for regulations to keep up with the technology, according to the Drone Council of South Africa.

Rectron’s drone academy launch comes as the use of drones continues to grow in South Africa, where they are used in various sectors, including construction, agriculture, and mining. The academy will help bridge the skills gap and provide the necessary training for individuals looking to build a career in the drone industry.