Osita Okonkwo, Managing Director of United Nigeria Airlines, has encouraged 400 level Avionics Engineering students from Afe Babalola University to take full advantage of the opportunity to gain hands on industry experience that will complement their academic training and prepare them for professional careers in the aviation industry.
The students commenced their six month Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme internship at United Nigeria Airlines following a Memorandum of Understanding signed in February between the Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, Obiora Okonkwo, and the Chancellor of Afe Babalola University, Afe Babalola.
The agreement aims to strengthen collaboration between academia and industry by providing ABUAD engineering students with structured opportunities for hands on training within the aviation sector.
Kelechi Violet Asuquo, Director of Human Resources at United Nigeria Airlines, delivered a session focusing on workplace ethics, professionalism, and the discipline required to thrive in the aviation industry during the onboarding process.
The students received introductory sessions on airline technical operations and professional expectations within the aviation industry as part of their orientation.
Kwabena Adoma, United Nigeria Airlines Line Maintenance Manager, alongside Benle Asemuah, provided briefings on aircraft maintenance procedures and the operational environment of the airline's engineering unit.
The students will be entitled to a monthly stipend of ₦100,000 each for the duration of their internship to support their professional development.
The six month SIWES programme will provide these students with practical exposure to avionics systems, aircraft maintenance processes, and airline engineering operations, giving them valuable real world experience to complement their classroom learning.
United Nigeria Airlines disclosed that the internship programme represents the first batch of engineering students from Afe Babalola University to undergo industrial training at the airline under the partnership agreement between both institutions.
The airline stated that the programme is designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge acquired in universities and practical skills required in the aviation industry, ensuring that graduates are well prepared to meet industry standards and contribute effectively to the sector upon completion of their studies.
