MANCOSA Drone Training and Placement Programme

MANCOSA, in partnership with DigiYouth Africa, invites suitably qualified applicants to apply for their Drone Training and Placement Programme. The closing date for applications is 06 January 2026. This opportunity is aimed at young South Africans who have completed Matric and are interested in learning future-focused skills that can lead directly to employment in the fast-growing drone and aviation support industry.

If you are looking for a modern, skills-based opportunity that goes beyond traditional office jobs, this programme is worth serious attention. Drone technology is being used more and more in areas such as mapping, security, agriculture, inspections, media, and logistics. This programme does not only train you, but also helps place successful candidates into relevant industry roles after training.

For young people who want practical skills, real work exposure, and a chance to build a career in technology, this MANCOSA Drone Training and Placement programme could be a life-changing opportunity.

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Understanding the MANCOSA and DigiYouth Africa Programme

MANCOSA is a well-known institution focused on skills development and professional growth. Through DigiYouth Africa, this drone programme is designed to prepare young people for real-world work using unmanned aircraft systems.

What makes this opportunity different from many short courses is that it combines structured training, supervised practical experience, and potential job placement. The aim is not just to teach theory, but to develop safe, confident, and responsible drone operators who can work in industry settings.

The programme is based in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) and includes both office-based learning and fieldwork, giving participants exposure to real operational environments.

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What This Drone Training Programme Is About

This programme provides comprehensive training in drone operations. Successful candidates will be guided step by step, starting with basic knowledge and moving toward practical drone use under supervision.

After completing the training successfully, candidates may be placed in relevant industry positions where drone skills are needed. This makes the programme especially valuable for young people who want employment, not just a certificate.

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Minimum Requirements to Apply

This opportunity is open to candidates who meet the basic entry requirements.

Education and Age Requirements

• Grade 12 completed
• Must be 18 years old at the time of matriculation
• Must be able to understand and communicate in English

Technical and Personal Requirements

• Valid South African ID
• Willingness to undergo a medical test
• Clear criminal and background record check

These requirements help ensure safety and professionalism in drone operations.

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Skills and Competencies Needed

You do not need drone experience to apply, but some basic skills are important.

Essential Competencies Include:

• Basic understanding of smartphones and mobile apps
• Familiarity with GPS and camera functions
• Strong reading, speaking, and listening skills
• Ability to follow instructions carefully

Skills That Are Helpful but Not Required:

• Map reading and interpretation
• Basic understanding of weather conditions
• Geography and mathematics knowledge

These skills can support your learning during the programme and make it easier to understand drone operations.

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What You Will Learn and Do During the Programme

Participants in this programme will be trained to support and perform drone operations safely and professionally.

Pre-Flight Responsibilities

You will learn how to:

• Assist with pre-flight checks
• Confirm that equipment is ready for use
• Support mission planning under supervision

These steps are important to ensure safe and successful flights.

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Drone Operations and Flight Support

During training, you will:

• Operate unmanned aircraft under supervision
• Follow company procedures and safety rules
• Work according to aviation regulations, including CARs Part 101
• Maintain awareness of surroundings during flights

Safety is always the top priority in drone operations.

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In-Flight Monitoring and Safety

You will be trained to:

• Monitor drone systems during flight
• Identify possible hazards or technical issues
• Report any problems immediately to the supervising pilot

This helps prevent accidents and ensures responsible drone use.

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Post-Flight Duties and Equipment Care

After flights, you will assist with:

• Offloading flight data
• Inspecting equipment
• Managing batteries safely
• Updating flight logs

These tasks are important for maintaining equipment and meeting legal requirements.

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Safety, Authority, and Professional Conduct

Drone operations require strict safety standards. As part of this programme, you will be taught to:

• Follow all safety protocols
• Report hazards, incidents, or near-misses
• Refuse to operate equipment if safety is at risk

Participants are encouraged to speak up if something feels unsafe. This is a key part of responsible aviation practice.

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Supervision, Growth, and Development

Participants start under direct supervision of a Chief Pilot or senior pilot. As skills improve and confidence grows, responsibilities may increase.

This gradual approach ensures:

• Safe learning
• Strong skill development
• Confidence before independent operations

Ongoing training is part of the programme, helping participants continuously improve their abilities and knowledge.

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Where the Programme Takes Place

• Location: KwaZulu-Natal (KZN)
• Work Setup: Office-based learning and field operations

This mix allows participants to gain both theoretical understanding and hands-on experience.

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Why This Opportunity Is Worth Considering

This programme offers more than training. It offers a pathway into a growing industry.

Benefits include:

• Practical drone operations training
• Exposure to real work environments
• Supervised learning from experienced pilots
• Improved employability
• Potential placement into industry roles

Drone skills are in demand, and early exposure can give you an advantage in the job market.

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Important Closing Date Reminder

The closing date for applications is 06 January 2026. Applications submitted after this date may not be considered, so it is important to apply early.

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The MANCOSA Drone Training and Placement Programme with DigiYouth Africa is a strong opportunity for young people who want modern skills, hands-on learning, and a chance to work in a future-focused industry. If you have Matric, meet the requirements, and are serious about learning and safety, this programme could be the start of an exciting and rewarding career path.