Reviving Ghana Airways Will Boost Aviation, Tourism and Youth Employment — Founder of African College of Aviation
Ghana’s aviation and tourism sectors remain critical pillars for economic growth, foreign exchange generation and job creation. However, stakeholders within the industry believe strategic interventions — particularly the restoration of a national carrier — are essential to unlocking the country’s full potential in the global travel market.
Founder of the African College of Aviation, Confidence Akaponi, has therefore called on government to expedite steps toward reviving Ghana Airways, describing the move as both an economic necessity and a matter of national pride.
“With aviation sector if we have Ghana Airways, it will help boost the industry, because with that, it will open Ghana to the rest of the world, and it will be a pride Ghana carrier, a flag carrier flying major destinations. Government should Expedite Return of Ghana Airways, Ghana Airways will strengthen the aviation sector and the tourism industry because tourism is one of the main sectors which generates revenue and when tourists come in, you have foreign international transactions coming into the country,” he stated.
He stressed that while Ghana’s aviation and tourism industries are viable, the absence of a strong national airline and limited investment continue to slow growth. According to him, restoring Ghana Airways will not only enhance connectivity but also create employment opportunities for young people trained within the sector.
On employment, Akaponi explained that the African College of Aviation prepares students beyond conventional airline roles, ensuring they are equipped for the broader transportation and service ecosystem.
“Our main programme is educational reservation combined with travel and tourism foundation. Students learn about transportation, the various forms of transportation including airline and water transport, hotels, customer service, car rental services and other areas. The nature of our course means you can work outside the mainstream airline industry. You are not limited to only working at the airline because that is where you will be stranded. Anything that has to do with transportation and customer service, you can fit in,” he said.
He further noted that the institution does not only provide classroom training but also supports students with industry exposure and entrepreneurial thinking.
“We don’t just train; we support students to get attachment and job opportunities. We also encourage them to start thinking about setting up their own businesses. Our training is practical and it opens your mind to start creating your own job while you are waiting,” he added.
The college aligns its training with International Air Transport Association standards and offers courses in airline customer service, aviation security, cabin crew training and airport operations. Over the past decade, the institution has produced graduates who are currently working with airlines, travel agencies and related companies both in Ghana and abroad.
Touching on the school’s recent graduation ceremony held in January this year, Akaponi said the vision is to raise industry impact makers.
“We believe we are meant to serve. Our students are not just passing through the process; we want them to see themselves as impact makers. We are igniting the future of aviation and travel and tourism training in West Africa because the industry needs more people to come into it,” he concluded.
By Bawa Musah
