The Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL) successfully conducted the Next Generation of Aviation Professionals (NGAP) Aviation Awareness Programme titled "Career Pathways to the Aviation Industry" under the leadership of the Director General of Civil Aviation and Chief Executive Officer, Capt. Daminda Rambukwella. The programme was organized with the objective of inspiring and educating undergraduates on the diverse career opportunities available within Sri Lanka's aviation industry while supporting the International Civil Aviation Organization's (ICAO) Next Generation of Aviation Professionals (NGAP) Initiative.
The programme brought together undergraduate students from Uva Wellassa University, NEXT Campus, and CINEC Campus, providing them with valuable exposure to the aviation sector and the wide range of professional pathways available across regulatory, airport, airline, and air navigation services.
A major highlight of the programme was an engaging Panel Discussion on "Career Pathways to the Aviation Industry," where distinguished aviation professionals shared their knowledge, career experiences, and insights into the industry's future. The discussion was moderated by Mr. Thilina Warnasinghe, Director (Air Navigation Services), Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka.
The panel comprised:
- Mr. Asanga Liyanarchchi, Director (Air Transport & Economic Regulation), Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka
- Mr. Shalutha R. Rathnayake, Airport Management, Airport & Aviation (Sri Lanka) (Private) Limited
- Mr. Indunil Wijekoon, Regional Manager, SriLankan Airlines
- Ms. Ashani Ranaweera, Senior Civil Aviation Inspector, Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka
During the interactive session, the panelists discussed the evolving landscape of the aviation industry, emerging career opportunities, industry expectations, professional competencies, leadership, innovation, and the skills required to succeed in a highly dynamic and globally connected aviation environment. Students actively engaged with the panel through an interactive question-and-answer session, gaining valuable career guidance and practical insights from experienced aviation professionals.
Following the panel discussion, participants were taken on an educational field visit to Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA), where they were introduced to various aspects of airport operations and the critical functions that ensure the safe and efficient movement of aircraft and passengers.
The field visit also included an exclusive tour of the SriLankan Airlines Engineering Hangar, where students had the unique opportunity to observe aircraft maintenance activities, learn about aircraft engineering and technical operations, and experience the interior of a commercial aircraft firsthand. The visit provided participants with practical exposure to real-world aviation operations, complementing the knowledge gained during the awareness sessions.
The programme was highly appreciated by the participating students, who expressed their enthusiasm for the informative sessions and the rare opportunity to experience Sri Lanka's aviation industry from behind the scenes. The combination of expert presentations, an insightful panel discussion, and practical field exposure offered participants a comprehensive understanding of the aviation sector and its exciting career prospects.
Through initiatives such as the NGAP Aviation Awareness Programme, the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka continues to demonstrate its commitment to developing the next generation of aviation professionals by promoting aviation education, creating awareness of career opportunities, and encouraging young talent to contribute to the continued growth and sustainability of Sri Lanka's aviation industry.