Addis Ababa, May 3, 2025 — Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest carrier and one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation brands, has marked another milestone in its commitment to aviation excellence. A total of 974 trainees graduated from Ethiopian Aviation University during a vibrant ceremony held on May 3, 2025, in Addis Ababa. The event drew ambassadors, country representatives, airline executives, graduates’ families, and distinguished guests in celebration of this achievement
The latest cohort specialised across key aviation and hospitality disciplines: 184 in Aircraft Maintenance, 43 in Pilot Training, 448 in Cabin Crew, 255 in Commercial Operations, and 44 in Hotel Operations. The graduates represent a diverse blend of African nationalities, with 38 Chinese, 34 Congolese, 19 Mozambican, 8 Cameroonian, 2 Gabonese, and one each from Zambia, South Sudan, Uganda, and Sierra Leone. Notably, 614 of the 974 graduates are women, underlining Ethiopian Airlines’ role in advancing gender diversity within the aviation sector.
Speaking at the ceremony, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO, Mr. Mesfin Tasew, congratulated the graduates on their academic accomplishments. “We are immensely proud to see our students graduate today, having successfully completed their training and demonstrated remarkable academic achievements. I am confident that you will carry this success into your future careers, leveraging the diverse resources you have gained from this esteemed university, which is equipped with cutting-edge technologies and staffed by seasoned aviation professionals. Ethiopian Aviation University will continue to be a centre of aviation excellence, serving not only the continent and the region but also beyond.”
Established nearly 70 years ago, Ethiopian Aviation University has graduated over 20,000 aviation professionals who now serve across Africa and globally. Originally focused on certificate and diploma training for pilots, aircraft maintenance personnel, and cabin crew, the university has expanded its academic reach since gaining university status in 2023. New offerings include undergraduate and postgraduate degrees such as BSc in Aeronautical Engineering, BSc in Aircraft Maintenance Engineering, BSc in Aviation Management, BA in Tourism & Hospitality Management, and an MBA in Aviation Management.
With training facilities now operating in Addis Ababa, Hawassa, and Dire Dawa, Ethiopian Aviation University continues its rapid expansion. Currently able to enrol around 4,000 students annually, the university’s ambitious Vision 2035 plan aims to increase its capacity to accommodate approximately 7,000 students, further reinforcing its role as a powerhouse in developing skilled aviation professionals for Ethiopia, the continent, and beyond.
SOURCE AND IMAGE: ETHIOPIAN AIRLINES
