The University of South Africa (UNISA) has become the first tertiary institution in Africa to own an airport, signaling a major step toward practical, skills-based education in the continent’s rapidly growing aviation and engineering sectors.
Vice-Chancellor Puleng LenkaBula confirmed the acquisition of the 20-hectare facility, describing it as a strategic investment to enhance real-world training for students.
The announcement came during a press briefing showcasing the university’s recent academic achievements and improving global rankings, reported by Business Insider Africa.
LenkaBula explained that the airport would act as a “launchpad for future innovators,” allowing UNISA to move beyond its traditional distance-learning model and provide hands-on technical training.
The facility is set to support specialised programmes in aviation, drone technology, and advanced digital systems, areas considered vital for Africa’s industrial growth.
The initiative mirrors a global trend among universities seeking to align education more closely with labour market needs, particularly in high-skill sectors where practical experience is crucial.
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Boitumelo Senokoane, an associate professor in the College of Human Sciences, emphasised the value of the acquisition for students.
“This 20-hectare airport will give our students a unique opportunity to apply their studies in practice and gain skills that are in high demand in the aviation and engineering industries,” she said.
Founded in 1873, UNISA serves more than 400,000 students worldwide and is recognised as one of the largest universities in the world.
The airport purchase aligns with the institution’s expanding research focus in digitalisation, biotechnology, renewable energy, and space science, positioning UNISA at the forefront of innovation on the continent.
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Image Credit: Business Insider Africa
