The Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSiRA) is inviting eligible female candidates to apply for the Drone Pilot Skills Training Programme 2026. This fully funded training programme is designed to equip women with practical drone piloting skills and prepare them for opportunities in the growing drone technology industry.
The programme offers successful applicants the chance to gain valuable knowledge in drone operations through a structured training course. Female candidates who have a passion for technology and meet the minimum requirements are encouraged to submit their applications before the closing date.
If a career in drone technology is the next goal, this programme could provide the skills and training needed to enter one of South Africa’s fastest-growing technology sectors.
About the Drone Pilot Skills Training Programme
Drone technology is becoming increasingly important across many industries, including:
- Security
- Agriculture
- Construction
- Mining
- Surveying
- Environmental monitoring
- Emergency response
- Infrastructure inspections
- Logistics
- Photography and videography
As demand for licensed drone pilots continues to increase, specialised training provides participants with practical and theoretical knowledge required for professional drone operations.
The PSiRA Drone Pilot Skills Training Programme has been developed to empower women by providing industry-relevant skills while promoting greater participation in technology-related careers.
Successful applicants will complete an intensive training programme lasting approximately 6 to 8 weeks.
Programme Details
- Programme Name: Drone Pilot Skills Training Programme
- Programme Duration: 6–8 Weeks
- Funding: Fully Funded
- Training Provider: Approved Aviation Training Organisation
- Programme Offered By: Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSiRA)
Who Should Apply?
Applications are encouraged from women who:
- Enjoy technology
- Want to build a career in drone operations
- Are interested in aviation
- Wish to gain specialised technical skills
- Meet all eligibility requirements
This opportunity is suitable for individuals looking to improve their employability while gaining nationally recognised drone pilot training.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must satisfy all of the following requirements before submitting an application.
Citizenship
- Applicants must be South African citizens.
Age Requirement
- Applicants must be between 18 and 40 years old.
Gender
- Only female applicants are eligible for this programme.
Educational Qualification
- Applicants must possess a Matric (Grade 12) certificate.
- English must have been passed with 50% or higher.
Health Requirements
Applicants must be in good health.
PSiRA Registration
Applicants must:
- Be registered with PSiRA.
- Be in good standing with PSiRA.
What Will Participants Learn?
The Drone Pilot Skills Training Programme introduces participants to various aspects of professional drone operations.
Training may include:
- Drone safety procedures
- Aviation regulations
- Flight planning
- Drone controls
- Risk management
- Drone maintenance
- Practical flying exercises
- Airspace awareness
- Navigation
- Mission planning
- Drone inspections
- Flight documentation
- Operational procedures
Participants will receive both theoretical and practical instruction throughout the programme.
Benefits of Joining the Programme
Successful candidates can benefit from:
- Fully funded training
- Industry-relevant drone pilot skills
- Practical flight experience
- Professional development
- Improved employment prospects
- Exposure to aviation technology
- Accommodation during practical training
- Transport to the training facility
Drone technology continues to expand across numerous industries, making qualified drone pilots increasingly valuable in the South African job market.
Aviation Medical Examination
Successful applicants will be required to undergo an Aviation Class III Medical Examination before participating in certain aspects of the programme.
This medical examination is a standard aviation requirement to ensure participants meet the necessary health standards for drone pilot training.
Important Information
- Applicants should carefully read the following information before applying.
No Stipend
- No stipend will be paid during the training programme.
- Applicants should ensure they are able to participate without expecting a monthly allowance.
Internet Access
- The online theory component requires internet access.
- No data or internet bundles will be provided.
- Applicants must have access to a reliable internet connection throughout the online learning phase.
Accommodation
- Accommodation will be provided during the practical training component where applicable.
Transport
- Transport to the training facility will also be provided for successful candidates.
Training Dates
- Training dates will be communicated directly to successful applicants after the selection process has been completed.
Required Documents
Applications must include all supporting documents.
The following documents are required:
- Completed Drone Programme Application Form
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified copy of Matric certificate
- Copy of PSiRA certificate
Incomplete applications may not be considered.
How to Apply
Eligible applicants should complete the official Drone Programme Application Form and attach all required supporting documents.
Applications must include:
- Completed application form
- Updated CV
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified copy of Matric certificate
- Copy of PSiRA certificate
Email the completed application together with all supporting documents to: [email protected]
Ensure that all documents are clear, readable, and attached before sending the email.
Only complete applications submitted before the closing date are expected to be considered.
Applicants who previously submitted applications do not need to apply again, as earlier applications remain under consideration.
Download the Drone Programme Application Form
Applicants must complete the official Drone Programme Application Form before submitting their application.
Click the link below to download the official Drone Programme Application Form, complete all sections, and attach it together with the required supporting documents.
Before sending an application, carefully complete every section of the Drone Programme Application Form.
The application form generally requests information such as:
- Personal details
- Contact information
- Residential address
- Educational qualifications
- Employment history
- PSiRA registration details
- Declaration and signature
Double-check that all information provided is accurate before submission.
Supporting documents should match the information entered on the application form.
Tips for a Successful Application
To improve the chances of a successful application:
- Complete every section of the application form.
- Use an updated CV.
- Attach all required supporting documents.
- Ensure certified copies are clear and legible.
- Verify that the Matric certificate reflects at least 50% for English.
- Confirm that PSiRA registration is active and in good standing.
- Submit the application before the closing date.
- Use a valid email address and cellphone number for communication.
Career Opportunities After Drone Training
Drone pilots are increasingly employed across various sectors in South Africa.
Possible career opportunities include:
- Security drone operator
- Agricultural drone pilot
- Survey technician
- Inspection drone operator
- Infrastructure monitoring specialist
- Environmental monitoring technician
- Mining drone operator
- Construction site drone operator
- Emergency response support
- Mapping and surveying assistant
- Aviation support services
As drone technology continues to evolve, trained operators may find opportunities in both the public and private sectors.
Why Drone Skills Matter
The use of drones has expanded significantly over the past decade. Organisations increasingly rely on unmanned aerial technology to improve efficiency, reduce operational costs, and enhance safety.
Drone pilots assist with inspections that would otherwise require significant time, specialised equipment, or access to hazardous environments. From inspecting infrastructure and monitoring construction projects to supporting emergency services and improving security operations, drone technology has become an essential tool in many industries.
Learning these skills can provide a competitive advantage for individuals seeking employment in technology-focused fields. Professional drone training also introduces participants to aviation standards, operational safety, and responsible drone use, which are important for compliance with South African aviation regulations.
Programmes such as this one contribute to developing technical expertise while creating pathways into emerging careers driven by innovation and digital transformation.
Application Closing Date
Closing Date: 14 August 2026
Late applications may not be considered.
Interested female candidates who meet all the eligibility requirements are encouraged to complete the application process and submit all required documents before the deadline.
