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Company: Flyfofa Aviation Training
Location: South Africa
Closing date: 15 January 2026
The demand for skilled drone pilots in South Africa is rising rapidly as industries such as agriculture, mining, construction, logistics, security, and media increasingly rely on unmanned aerial systems. To support skills development in this high-growth sector, Flyfofa Aviation Training, in partnership with the National Skills Fund (NSF) through the Department of Higher Education and Training, has officially announced a fully funded Remote Pilot Certificate (Drone Pilot) bursary for eligible candidates in Gauteng Province.
This bursary presents a rare opportunity for young South Africans to obtain a SACAA-compliant Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC) through a structured, full-time aviation training programme that includes accommodation and a monthly stipend.
About the Remote Pilot Certificate (Drone Pilot) Bursary
The Flyfofa Aviation Drone Pilot bursary is a 12-week full-time training programme designed to equip learners with both theoretical knowledge and hands-on flying experience required to operate drones professionally and legally in South Africa.
The programme fully aligns with South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) regulations and prepares learners for all mandatory internal and external examinations needed to obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC).
Programme Duration and Benefits
- Duration: 12 weeks (full-time)
- Training Type: Theoretical and practical
- Certification: Remote Pilot Certificate (Drone Pilot)
- Included Benefits:
- Accommodation
- Monthly stipend
- SACAA-aligned examinations
- Hands-on drone flight training with qualified instructors
Upon successful completion, candidates will be eligible to demonstrate their drone flying skills to a qualified examiner and earn their official Remote Pilot Certificate.
What the Training Covers
The Flyfofa Aviation Remote Pilot Certificate programme is comprehensive and industry-focused. Learners will be trained in:
- Drone regulations and aviation law
- Safe flying practices
- Drone operations and systems
- Practical drone flight training
- Decision-making and operational judgment
- Compliance with SACAA aviation standards
The course is structured to ensure graduates are job-ready, safety-conscious, and compliant with South African aviation requirements.
Entry Requirements for the Flyfofa Drone Pilot Bursary
Applicants must meet all the following minimum requirements to be considered:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must be between 18 and 23 years of age
- Must be residing in Gauteng Province
- Must have matriculated in Gauteng Province
- Must have attended a Quintile 1–3 high school only
- Must have obtained Level 5 in English
- Must have obtained Level 4 in Mathematics and Level 5 in Mathematical Literacy
- Must be willing to undergo an aviation medical examination
- Must have good communication, judgment, and decision-making skills
- Must be able to multitask with strong hand-eye coordination
- Must be technically inclined, safety-oriented, and culturally sensitive
Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee selection, as the programme follows a competitive selection process.
Who Can Apply for the Drone Pilot Bursary?
This bursary opportunity is strictly open to:
- South African citizens of all race groups
- Applicants residing in Gauteng Province
- Learners who attended Quintile 1, 2, or 3 high schools in Gauteng Province
OR - SASSA Child Grant recipients
Only candidates who meet the above criteria will be considered.
Application Process and Required Documents
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online via the official Flyfofa Aviation website.
- Application Code: RPAS2026
- Programme: Remote Pilot Certificate (Drone Pilot)
Applicants are required to upload the following documents during the application process:
- Copy of a valid South African ID
- Proof of residence
- Copy of Grade 12 certificate or statement of results
Incomplete applications or missing documents will result in automatic disqualification.
Selection Process
The Flyfofa Aviation bursary selection process is rigorous to ensure only suitable candidates are admitted into the programme. The process includes:
- Pre-screening of applications
- Personality assessments
- Aviation medical examination
- Panel interviews
Only candidates who successfully pass all stages will be offered placement in the training programme.
Application Closing Date
- Closing Date: Midnight, 15 January 2026
Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted under any circumstances.
Why Choose a Career as a Drone Pilot?
Becoming a certified drone pilot opens doors to multiple career paths across both public and private sectors. Drone pilots are increasingly employed in:
- Aerial surveying and mapping
- Agriculture and crop monitoring
- Infrastructure inspection
- Media and film production
- Security and surveillance
- Environmental monitoring
With the correct certification and experience, drone piloting offers strong income potential and long-term career growth.
Final Thoughts
The Flyfofa Aviation Remote Pilot Certificate (Drone Pilot) Bursary 2026 is an exceptional opportunity for young South Africans in Gauteng to enter the aviation and drone technology sector at no financial cost. With full funding, professional training, and SACAA-aligned certification, this programme provides a solid foundation for a future-proof career.
Interested candidates are strongly encouraged to apply early and ensure all requirements are met before the closing date.