A new initiative is emerging in Senegal, according to information in a brochure obtained by Seneweb. It's a drone training program in Africa, designed to support skills development in this rapidly expanding sector through the Senegal Drone Academy. The program includes theoretical instruction and practical exercises on remotely piloted aircraft systems. It's aimed at a diverse range of participants, from complete beginners to experienced drone pilots.

According to the same document, the training program relies on instructors certified by the Senegalese Civil Aviation Authority (ANACIM) and the UK Civil Aviation Authority (UK CAA). These certifications include, among others, those offered by the program. The program also highlights the issuance of international, regional, and local certifications in the field of RPAS drones. Furthermore, the organization has a clearly stated ambition: "To train the best, most competent, and most professional drone operators in Africa." Officials also emphasize the need to train pilots capable of operating in diverse environments with a high level of safety and operational rigor.

The brochure indicates that the training program covers a wide range of application sectors. These areas range from humanitarian aid and healthcare to agriculture, surveying, urban planning, and development. Technical inspections and various commercial uses of drones are also included.

The Academy also boasts over sixteen training modules. It reports having more than 300 pilots already trained and nearly 450 learners currently enrolled. These activities span eight countries across the African continent. The training program is based on several pathways tailored to the learners' levels and objectives. The introductory module provides a first introduction to drone piloting. Another module, titled "Drone for Kids," is specifically designed for children. A comprehensive program is also dedicated to professional drone pilot certification.

The brochure also details the integration of international certifications. These include UK/EASA standards, with the GVC and A2 CofC certificates. It specifies that a significant portion of the training is dedicated to photogrammetry. This module focuses on the collection of high-resolution aerial images. It then covers the transformation of this data into three-dimensional models and digital maps, using specialized tools.

According to the documentation consulted by Seneweb, the program also includes training in image analysis and remote sensing. These skills enable the extraction of information from data collected by drones. The areas of application mentioned include urban planning, agriculture, and environmental monitoring.

The training program is complemented by several specialized modules. These cover renewable energy, conservation and the environment, mining, surveying, urban planning, and agriculture. Other sessions focus on the maintenance of RPAS systems, whether multirotor or fixed-wing.

The information sheet adds that the program also includes training dedicated to telecommunications applied to drones. Another session focuses on the role of visual observer for remotely piloted aircraft systems. Finally, a specific module addresses artificial intelligence and geographic information systems applied to drones.

Two training courses complete this package. The first deals with the economic model of drones through the concept of "Drone as a Business". The second is devoted to the roles of drone manager and team leader, within an operational organization framework.

The training program covers the fundamentals of piloting, advanced techniques, safety rules, and regulatory compliance requirements. The academy's stated objective is to structure the progression of skills at each stage of the training. The training facilities are described as modern. They are equipped with drone-related technologies and allow for the combination of theoretical and practical learning in a single environment. Best of all, the program enjoys institutional recognition, having been accredited by ANAC-IC.