The Lagos Aviation Academy (LAA) has once again demonstrated its commitment to excellence in aviation training after one of its students emerged as the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Best Performer in the July 2024 travel and tourism examination. This prestigious recognition, which honors outstanding performance in aviation training globally, marks the fifth time LAA has produced the top performer in this category, further solidifying its position as a leader in aviation education in Africa.
The IATA Best Performer Award is highly coveted within the aviation industry, spotlighting individuals who excel in aviation-related examinations and training programs. These awards are an important benchmark for institutions like LAA, which strive to maintain high standards and provide top-tier training that meets international benchmarks. The achievement is a testament not only to the capabilities of the students but also to the quality of education provided by the academy.
During a press briefing at LAA’s newly opened campus in Lagos, the Head of School, Bolaji Durojaiye, expressed immense pride in the academy’s latest accolade, emphasizing the institution’s continued efforts to raise the bar in aviation training. Durojaiye remarked, “This accomplishment shows our unwavering commitment to delivering world-class training and dedication to shaping the future of aviation both in Nigeria and beyond. Our student’s achievement is not only a reflection of their hard work and dedication but also a testament to the leadership and innovation that Lagos Aviation Academy brings to the industry.”
Durojaiye further noted that LAA’s success in producing five IATA Best Performers is a clear indication of the academy’s focused approach toward training professionals who can compete globally in the aviation sector. He emphasized the importance of continuously evolving to meet the needs of the modern aviation landscape, ensuring that both students and instructors remain at the cutting edge of industry developments. “Our goal has always been to equip our students with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the global aviation industry. This latest achievement reaffirms that we are on the right track,” Durojaiye added.
Oluwafisayomi Layo-Olayemi, the 2024 IATA Best Performer, shared her thoughts on the recognition and expressed deep gratitude for the support she received from the academy. Speaking to journalists, she said, “The support I got from the school during my training made a difference in my performance. I chose LAA for its affordability and the desire to grow in my career.” She praised the school for its world-class instructors who were not only knowledgeable but also dedicated to ensuring that students understood the curriculum thoroughly. “Lagos Aviation Academy has very good instructors who were always ready to help. Their guidance played a huge role in my success,” she added.
Layo-Olayemi’s story is one of many that reflect the transformative impact LAA has had on its students. Her achievement underscores the academy’s role in bridging the gap between African aviation professionals and the global industry. As more African nations seek to expand their aviation sectors to meet growing demands, institutions like LAA play a crucial role in shaping the next generation of leaders and experts in the field.
The academy’s consistent track record of excellence also draws attention to the importance of quality aviation training in Africa. With the aviation industry set to experience significant growth on the continent, particularly as African countries aim to boost tourism, international travel, and trade, the need for skilled professionals is more urgent than ever. LAA’s continued success highlights the value of investing in educational programs that not only meet international standards but also cater to the unique needs of African aviation.
Durojaiye highlighted this point, stating that LAA’s mission goes beyond Nigeria, as the academy aims to make significant contributions to the entire African aviation sector. He mentioned that the institution’s vision is to produce aviation professionals who can take on leadership roles in the industry and positively impact the continent’s economic growth through aviation. “Aviation is key to Africa’s economic future. At LAA, we are training the individuals who will lead that transformation,” he said.
With its state-of-the-art facilities, experienced faculty, and innovative training methods, the Lagos Aviation Academy is well-positioned to continue shaping the future of aviation in Nigeria and across Africa. As the academy continues to nurture talents like Layo-Olayemi, it remains a beacon of hope for aspiring aviation professionals across the continent, demonstrating that excellence is attainable with the right education and support.
This latest achievement is not just a victory for the Lagos Aviation Academy, but also for Africa’s aviation industry at large, as it highlights the continent’s potential to produce world-class talent that can compete on the global stage. The recognition from IATA serves as a reminder that African institutions can and are delivering top-tier education and training that meets international standards, paving the way for the continent’s future success in aviation.
