As part of the Isaac Balami Foundation Youth Empowerment Scheme (iYES), which began on February 3, 2025, 160 students are to benefit from its tuition-free aviation scholarship programme.
The programme commenced with orientation activities at Aviatrix Hub, followed by an excursion to 7star Global Hangar, a key funding partner and the vision of the Foundation’s President, Engr. Isaac Balami. Participants also visited the proposed campus of the Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and Management (IBUAM), where they interacted with various partners and stakeholders involved in the scholarship programme.
Throughout the event, speakers encouraged the beneficiaries to seize this scholarship opportunity and focus on their studies to make a positive impact in the aviation sector.
Addressing the participants, Belami said “What took some of us 15 to 20 years to achieve, my vision is to help you accomplish in the next 5 years, if you are determined.”
The Accountable Managers from the two partnering Approved Training Organizations (ATOs), Aviatrix Hub and Leadstream Aviation, Mrs. Victoria Adegbe and Engr. Roland Ahmed, respectively, emphasized the importance of preparation for the upcoming training.
Mrs. Adegbe remarked, “We are ready and set to train you. You must study and give your best; there is no room for failure. We are here to prepare you for the future of the aviation industry.” Engr. Roland Ahmed highlighted the critical nature of safety in aviation, reminding students that every decision matters. “The speed of an aircraft is nearly as swift as the speed of light. It’s crucial that you take this opportunity seriously and strive for excellence.”
Executive Director of the Foundation, Mrs. Obioma Madu Udealor, welcomed the beneficiaries and urged them to recognize the contributions of the Foundation and its partners.
“Welcome to the programme! You are already experiencing more than you might have expected. We are providing you with numerous resources and experiences to help you excel in this industry. Please make our efforts count.”
Other speakers included Group COO at 7star Global Hangar, Dr. Nneka Ebru Ekpe, and Project Director at 7star Global Hangar, Dr. Joshua Abbey.
The beneficiaries expressed their heartfelt gratitude, sharing their struggles and aspirations.
Speaking on his experience one of the participants said: “I had given up on this dream before I found this opportunity and applied. I received the offer just a day before my birthday.”
“I traveled from my village in Cross River State for this training. Today was the first time I’ve ever been close to an aircraft and even entered one.”, said another participant.
A student from Borno State recounted how she was once told she had no future ambition due to her lofty dreams of becoming an aviator, but her late father encouraged her.
