Now you can get a drone flying qualification in Dubai

GEMS Education has announced the launch of an education programme using drones to be conducted at GEMS Dubai American Academy (DAA).

GEMS Dubai American Academy along with Jumeirah College will be pioneering the program, the company said in a statement.

It added that the curriculum will involve an integrated training programme that includes a Ground School (Flight Theory, Safety and Regulations), Simulator Training (competency based training based upon minimum proficiency standards) and Flight Training (actual real-time operation of drones in).

Representatives of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), Jumeirah College, Exponent Technologies and DAA will closely work together on the successful implementation of the programme and also propose the same to other schools in the country.

Michael Gernon, global head of innovation, research and development, GEMS Education said: “There is a current and future need to train not only drone pilots, but solution experts and engineers. Bringing a new perspective into academics and learning, incorporating drones in education can help motivate students put their curiosity into good use in addition to the rich educational environment it can provide.

"The programme will help equip students with vital cross curricular skills required to encourage problem-solving and analytical thinking in real-world scenarios.”

He said the programme will be made available for middle and high school students. However, there will be opportunities for younger students to take up certain aspects of the study – programming, stable flight with small drones and build dummy projects etc.

Currently, the minimum age to grant official permits to fly drones outdoor is 16 years. However, an educational permit will be introduced where students will be allowed to use facilities at specific times under the presence of a commercially qualified pilot.

Read more: http://www.arabianbusiness.com/education/385744-now-you-can-get-drone-flying-qualification-in-dubai