Aviation sector sees rising demand for skilled workforce, speakers say

Bangladesh's aviation sector is entering a critical growth phase, with expanding infrastructure and global connectivity driving strong demand for a new generation of skilled professionals, experts said at a seminar in the capital today (20 April). 

The seminar, titled "Aviation Profession in Bangladesh – Opportunities, Emerging Trends and Career Pathways," was organised by the University of Asia Pacific (UAP) in collaboration with AVIANOMICS at the UAP auditorium in Farmgate.

Speakers highlighted the need for stronger industry-academia collaboration, as UAP and AVIANOMICS announced a strategic partnership to offer specialised training, guest lectures and internship opportunities in aviation management, aeronautical engineering and aviation safety.

The event was chaired by Prof Dr Mohiuddin Ahmed Bhuiyan, acting vice chancellor of UAP, while K M Mozibul Hoque, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, attended as chief guest. Md Saiyed Bin Abdullah, special assistant to the Prime Minister on Youth Employment, was present as special guest.

Delivering the keynote, aviation expert and ICAO-certified instructor Prasanta Kumar Chakraborty said the country's aviation industry is at a "tipping point."

"With the expansion of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, internationalisation of Cox's Bazar Airport and growing global connectivity, we are looking at a significant demand for skilled aviation professionals in the coming decade," he said.

He noted that aviation is no longer limited to pilots and cabin crew, but has evolved into a high-tech sector offering opportunities for engineers, data analysts and management professionals.

Saiyed Bin Abdullah urged students to begin career planning early and consider entrepreneurship to create opportunities, assuring government support for emerging entrepreneurs.

K M Mozibul Hoque said UAP would introduce certificate courses, workshops and placement support to prepare students for industry demands, adding that the partnership with AVIANOMICS reflects the university's commitment to bridging academic learning with practical application.

Prof Bhuiyan said the seminar highlighted diverse career pathways, including flight operations, air law, drone technology and green aviation, and noted that UAP plans to integrate aviation modules into its curriculum and explore a minor in aviation management.

More than 300 students, faculty members and industry professionals attended the seminar, which concluded with a question-and-answer session on scholarships, certifications and artificial intelligence in aviation.