DUBAI (ALETIHAD)

The UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has announced a new strategic partnership with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aimed at enhancing cooperation in developing and empowering the Next Generation of Aviation Professionals (NGAP). His Excellency Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, the Director General of the GCAA, and His Excellency Juan Carlos Salazar, the Secretary General of the ICAO, signed a memorandum of understanding on this matter yesterday at the GCAA's office in Dubai.

The strategic partnership focuses on coordinating cooperation frameworks to develop the human capital of professionals and skilled workforce in various aviation specialities worldwide through attracting, training, educating, and retaining the next generation of aviation professionals supporting initiatives related to gender equality and fostering an environment conducive to development and innovation.

H.E. Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, the Director-General of the GCAA, emphasised the significance of this partnership in aligning with the developmental objectives and aspirations of both entities. This collaboration signifies an important milestone in the joint efforts between the UAE and the ICAO, aimed at integrating efforts to foster a comprehensive and advanced aviation sector. “Investing in the next generation of aviation professionals and supporting women's empowerment will pave the way for a more dynamic and sustainable future for our industry,” he added.

H.E Juan Carlos Salazar, Secretary-General of ICAO, echoed this sentiment, adding, "This strategic partnership between ICAO and the GCAA represents a bold step forward in our shared commitment to developing a skilled, diverse, and sustainable aviation workforce. By working together to attract, train, and empower the next generation of aviation professionals, we are laying the foundation for a brighter future in the aviation industry. ICAO is proud to collaborate with the GCAA in this important endeavour, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact of our joint efforts on the global aviation community."

The MOU has identified three main aspects of cooperation between the two sides to empower the next generation of aviation professionals proactively:

- The collaboration between the GCAA and the ICAO involves efforts to develop tailored programs, initiatives, and educational opportunities to attract and train the next generation of aviation professionals.

- Supporting women's empowerment and enhancing gender equality in aviation through collaborative initiatives to create more equitable and diverse opportunities at all levels within the aviation sector.

- Fostering a culture of knowledge sharing and collaboration by exchanging best practices, information, and resources related to aviation professional development and gender equality. This aims to cultivate an environment supportive of innovation, progress, and development within the industry."