The Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) programme has begun for the first batch of 400-level Avionics Engineering students from Afe Babalola University (ABUAD) at United Nigeria Airlines.
The six-month industrial training places students within the airline’s engineering division to gain practical aviation experience. Therefore, the initiative aims to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world technical operations within Nigeria’s growing aviation sector.
Managing Director of United Nigeria Airlines, Mazi Osita Okonkwo, welcomed the students and encouraged them to maximise the opportunity. He noted that the SIWES internship provides valuable exposure to airline operations and technical standards. However, he stressed that commitment, discipline, and curiosity remain essential for students hoping to build successful aviation careers.
Meanwhile, the onboarding programme introduced the students to the airline’s technical environment and workplace expectations. United Nigeria Airlines Line Maintenance Manager, Engr. Kwabena Adoma, alongside Engr. Benle Asemuah, delivered detailed briefings on aircraft maintenance procedures. They also explained safety protocols, engineering workflows, and operational coordination required to keep airline fleets serviceable.
In addition, Director of Human Resources Mrs Kelechi Violet Asuquo guided the students through sessions on professionalism and workplace conduct. She emphasised the importance of ethical behaviour and accountability in aviation. According to her, technical knowledge alone cannot sustain a career in the sector without discipline, teamwork, and strong professional values.
The SIWES internship programme also includes financial support to encourage students’ commitment to their training. Each participant will receive a monthly stipend of ₦100,000 throughout the six-month industrial placement. Therefore, the support is expected to ease financial pressure while enabling the students to concentrate fully on acquiring practical aviation engineering skills.
SIWES Internship Strengthens Academia-Industry Collaboration
The SIWES training initiative forms part of a broader partnership between United Nigeria Airlines and Afe Babalola University. The collaboration follows a Memorandum of Understanding signed earlier this year between Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, and Chancellor of ABUAD, Aare Afe Babalola. Consequently, the agreement establishes a structured pathway for engineering students to gain practical exposure within the airline industry.
Through the programme, students will observe and participate in avionics diagnostics, aircraft maintenance processes, and engineering support operations. These activities will allow them to understand how theoretical engineering concepts translate into operational aviation practice. Meanwhile, the exposure also prepares them for the rigorous safety culture required in global aviation.
Industry-based training has become increasingly important for aviation engineering students in Nigeria. Organisations such as the International Civil Aviation Organization emphasise practical training and competency-based education for aviation professionals. Therefore, initiatives like the SIWES internship contribute to building a technically skilled workforce capable of supporting Nigeria’s expanding aviation infrastructure.
For United Nigeria Airlines, hosting engineering students also strengthens the airline’s role in developing future aviation professionals. The airline provides a real operational environment where students can experience aircraft maintenance routines and engineering decision-making. In addition, exposure to professional engineers allows students to learn industry standards and technical best practices.
Meanwhile, the SIWES programme highlights the growing collaboration between universities and aviation operators in Nigeria. By combining academic knowledge with practical industry training, institutions can better prepare graduates for specialised aviation careers. Consequently, programmes like this help address the long-standing skills gap within Nigeria’s aviation maintenance sector.
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