The first cohort of commercial pilots graduated from Akagera Aviation Academy (AAA), on Thursday, May 26.

The pilots graduated after a two-year academic journey in a class that had two female pilots and 15 men. 

The addition of two female pilots, much as it is still small, officials believe is a step in the right direction towards reducing the existing gap.

According to Patrick Nkulikiyimfura the Managing Director of Akagera Aviation, much of the learning at the academy is dedicated to practical lessons, where they have to amass a number of flying hours before they can get their licenses.

He said that to get the commercial pilot license, you have to accumulate between 20 and 40 hours of flying.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony, the State Minister in the Ministry of Infrastructure Patricie Uwase said that; "It is the first class of Rwandan pilots to graduate, we are looking into adding the number of Rwandan pilots this is a good step.”

Uwase added that as the national carrier RwandaAir grows, there is need for more pilots, adding that the completion of the New Bugesera Airport will increase the demand.

During the graduation ceremony, three of the graduands were awarded for outstanding performance.

Edyne Umuhoza was awarded the best overall performer, Fabien Musonera the best check ride performer and Is-haq Ndoli was awarded as the most improved student.

"I am truly humbled the journey wasn’t easy but all thanks to our instructors, my colleagues, RwandaAir and the aviation academy for believing and investing in us”, Umuhoza said

Nasoro Kaje, one of the parents said that; "My child had a dream of becoming a pilot ever since he was a child, I thank the country for giving our children a platform to fulfil their dreams, we have seen him fly to Turkey and many other countries.”

The graduation event was also attended by the CEO of RwandaAir, Yvonne Makolo.