Uganda Airlines and Boeing have raised concern over the growing wave of recruitment scams targeting young people seeking careers in aviation, urging university students to rely only on verified channels as they pursue opportunities in the fast-growing industry.
The caution came during a career-development engagement held at Makerere University, where the two aviation giants partnered to mentor students and expose them to emerging opportunities across engineering, technology, operations, and flight services.
Uganda Airlines CEO Jennifer Bamuturaki warned that fraudsters have increasingly disguised themselves as airline recruiters to exploit desperate job seekers.
“Uganda Airlines does not offer jobs through informal channels,” she cautioned.
“We only recruit through official platforms, and students must be vigilant to avoid scams.”
Bamuturaki stressed that aviation is a broad discipline that demands diverse talent beyond the cockpit.
“Aviation is not about pilots alone,” she said.
“We need mechanical and electrical engineers, food scientists, communication experts, and technology specialists. This industry is open to people from many fields, and we want young people to understand that.”
Her remarks came as aviation professionals reported a rise in fraudulent recruitment messages circulating online, especially targeting university graduates and final-year students.
Industry experts at the event repeatedly emphasized integrity, professionalism, and discipline—qualities they described as non-negotiable for anyone entering aviation.
Boeing Commercial Sales Executive Director Herb Wallen urged students to broaden their exposure through practical experience and international engagement.
“Africa’s aviation industry is gaining momentum and drawing significant global attention. This growth is creating a high demand for skilled pilots, engineers, and technical specialists. Students should actively pursue internships, training programs, and opportunities across airlines,” Wallen noted.
Speakers also encouraged students to adapt to the technological shift sweeping through global aviation—from artificial intelligence to automated maintenance systems.
Engineer Hamza Bunya, Captain Tonny Tebajanga, and Engineer Victor Kalule urged aspiring professionals to embrace advanced systems reshaping aircraft operations.
“Today’s aircraft systems rely heavily on automation. Mastering these technologies is essential for anyone who wants to succeed in the aviation world,” an expert said.
The partnership between Uganda Airlines and Boeing is expected to grow into a structured talent-pipeline program, offering mentorship, training, and exposure for students hoping to join Africa’s expanding aviation workforce.
