The Asogli State, under the leadership of Togbe Afede XIV, is spearheading the establishment of a comprehensive aviation academy in Ho, Volta Region, Ghana. This ambitious project, conceived in 2019, has recently gained significant momentum with a site visit and renewed commitment from key stakeholders, including the Volta Regional Minister, the Managing Director of Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL), and representatives from the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority, Africa World Airlines, and various industry engineers. The Ho Aviation Academy is envisioned as a three-phase development, starting with a pilot training school, followed by a training facility for cabin crew and technicians, and culminating in a state-of-the-art Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility. This strategic approach aims to address the global shortage of aviation professionals, particularly technicians, and position Ghana as a leading provider of aviation training and services across the African continent.
The project’s potential impact extends beyond the aviation sector. It is expected to stimulate economic growth within the Volta Region and nationally, creating numerous job opportunities and boosting tourism. The academy’s location at Ho Airport is strategically chosen to enhance the airport’s viability and contribute to the broader goal of making regional airports self-sustaining. The collaborative nature of the project, involving government officials, aviation industry leaders, and traditional authorities, underscores the shared vision for its success. This collaborative approach ensures that all necessary logistical, regulatory, and operational aspects are meticulously addressed, paving the way for a smooth and efficient implementation.
Togbe Afede XIV, a driving force behind the initiative, expressed his unwavering belief in the project, emphasizing that “God’s own time” has arrived to bring the vision to fruition. He underscored the urgency of establishing the pilot training school within the next eight months and ensuring the timely completion of the hangar facility. This ambitious timeline reflects the commitment to swiftly capitalize on the existing momentum and address the pressing need for skilled aviation professionals. The academy’s commitment to securing international certifications, including recognition from the Federal Aviation Administration, further reinforces its dedication to providing high-quality training that meets global standards.
The Volta Regional Minister, Hon. James Gunu, echoed the urgency, emphasizing the need for immediate action and describing the aviation academy as a “gateway” for Ghana. He highlighted the academy’s potential to catalyze economic development and positively impact various sectors, underscoring its strategic importance to the nation’s growth. This sentiment was shared by Mrs. Yvonne Nana Afriyie Opare, Managing Director of GACL, who expressed enthusiasm for the project’s potential to transform regional airports into self-sustaining entities. She emphasized the significant employment opportunities that the MRO facility and pilot training academy would create, further solidifying the project’s economic and social benefits.
The initial feasibility assessments conducted for the project laid the groundwork for this renewed commitment and collaboration. The recent site visit facilitated crucial discussions among stakeholders, focusing on logistical and regulatory considerations vital for the academy’s successful implementation. The presence of representatives from the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority, Africa World Airlines, and industry engineers ensured that all critical perspectives were incorporated into the planning process. This collaborative approach guarantees that the academy’s development aligns with industry best practices and regulatory requirements, optimizing its chances of success and long-term sustainability.
The Ho Aviation Academy promises a transformative impact on Ghana’s aviation landscape, positioning the country as a regional leader in aviation training and services. By addressing the global shortage of aviation professionals, particularly technicians, the academy will contribute significantly to the growth and advancement of the aviation industry across Africa. The project’s commitment to high-quality training, international certifications, and strategic partnerships will ensure that graduates are well-equipped to meet the demands of the ever-evolving aviation sector. This comprehensive approach will not only benefit Ghana’s economy but also contribute to the development of a skilled workforce capable of driving innovation and progress within the African aviation industry.
